Once a paycheck affords a certain standard of living, then higher-level needs are already satisfied and people can pursue lower-level needs.

Certain Standard

A specific level of quality, achievement, or compliance that is established as a benchmark or guideline.

Higher-Level Needs

Advanced human desires in Maslow’s hierarchy, including esteem and self-actualization needs, which surface after basic physiological and safety needs are met.

Lower-Level Needs

Basic human requirements such as physiological needs and safety, which have to be fulfilled before higher-level needs, like self-esteem and self-actualization.