What is self-actualization?

Self-actualization was a term made popular by psychologist Abraham Maslow in his landmark paper "A Theory of Human Motivation".  His theory came to be a big part of what is now known as humanistic psychology which helps inform my own personal philosophy of therapy and counseling.What is self-actualization exactly? Well, according to Maslow (1954) the term:

(It) refers to the person’s desire for self-fulfillment, namely, to the tendency for him to become actualized in what he is potentially.

You can see how this perspective differed from the traditional thinking of psychologists and psychiatrists who saw people's minds from a deficient or pathologized perspective rather than from a perspective of a potential for high self-fulfillment.  Luckily, in large part, counseling has caught up to modern times.I share Maslow's concept of self-actualization because I believe it to be an interesting way to think of our own personal development. While his original hierarchy was very basic, his theory evolved over the years and began to more explicitly include psychological principles.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs

Here's an image representing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs:The basic theory that Maslow proposed is that one needs to meet those lower level (or base needs) before one can achieve an internal sense of peace and fulfillment in one's life.  Take a good look at the image; where might you like to change things? What's blocking you from achieving the level of satisfaction and fulfillment that you desire?In case the term self-actualization still isn't clear.

Here are some examples of traits of self-actualized people courtesy of Simply Psychology (2007,2014):

• They perceive reality efficiently and can tolerate uncertainty;

• Accept themselves and others for what they are;

• Spontaneous in thought and action;

• Problem-centered (not self-centered);

• Unusual sense of humor;

• Able to look at life objectively;

• Highly creative;

• Resistant to enculturation, but not purposely unconventional;

• Concerned for the welfare of humanity;

• Capable of deep appreciation of basic life-experience;

• Establish deep satisfying interpersonal relationships with a few people;

• Peak experiences;

• Need for privacy;

• Democratic attitudes;

• Strong moral/ethical standards.

Does that sound like you?  If not, perhaps taking some time to reflect or journal on what aspects you'd like to foster within yourself could be helpful.  It goes without saying that these specific traits are not to everyone's tastes or desires, but they can be helpful in your exploration of what changes you may want to make in your life.