Motivation is an inferred process that causes an organism to move towards a goal. Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs identifies physiological, safety, belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization as five levels of human needs. Fulfilling lower level needs allows one to focus on higher level needs. Self-motivation strategies include breaking large tasks into small steps and starting action without waiting for inspiration. Setting specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound goals can help achieve both short-term and long-term objectives.