self actualization

Self-actualization is the complete realization of one’s potential, and the full development of one’s abilities and appreciation for life. This concept is at the top of the Maslow hierarchy of needs, so not every human being reaches it.

Kurt Goldstein, Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow are three individuals who have contributed immensely to our understanding of the concept of self-actualization.

The present day understanding of self-actualization, tends to be more aligned with the view of Maslow than with the perspectives of Goldstein or Rogers.

According to Maslow, the internal drive to self-actualize would seldom emerge until more basic needs are met.

Self-actualized people have an acceptance of who they are despite their faults and limitations, and experience to drive to be creative in all aspects of their lives.

While self-actualizers hail from a variety of backgrounds and a diversity of occupations, they share notable characteristics in common, such as the ability to cultivate deep and loving relationships with others.

  

1. Self-actualized people are accepting of others’ as well as their own flaws, often with humor and tolerance. Not only do self-actualized people fully accept others, they are also true to themselves rather than pretending in order to impress others (Talevich, 2017).
2. Self-actualized people also tend to be independent and resourceful: they are less likely to rely upon external authorities to direct their lives (Martela & Pessi, 2018).
3. Can cultivate deep and loving relationships with others.
4. Tendency to exude gratitude and maintain a deep appreciation even for the commonplace blessings in life.
5. Can often discern between the superficial and the real when judging situations.
6. Seldom depend upon their environment or culture to form their opinions.
7. Tendency to view life as a mission which calls them to a purpose beyond themselves.