What Is Self-Actualization?
We all know that water, food, and shelter are necessary, but there is much more than that about the human experience. Self-actualization implies reaching our greatest potential and thriving. Psychologist Abraham Maslow popularized this term with the hierarchy of needs. He believed that self-actualization is a motivator for behavior and that it's our nature to strive towards the best version of ourselves. However, Maslow didn't have a monopoly on self-actualization. Maslow and Carl Rogers both pioneered humanistic psychology; self-actualization is also frequently found in humanistic literature. While Maslow ordered self-actualization at the top of his hierarchy of needs, psychologist Carl Rogers thought differently about self-actualization. Rogers believed self-actualization was the only motivating factor that drove us forward. They both had different concepts about the characteristics of self-actualization as well. Maslow examined 17 characteristics of self-actualized people. In 2018, 70 years later, Scott Barry Kaufman wanted to see which of Maslow's characteristics of self-actualization still held up today. He found that ten of them are still valid. Let's see what they are:
Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers didn't agree on all the concepts and characteristics. Still, one thing is sure - they gave us an excellent foundation to start working on self-actualization. Working on having these characteristics can help improve well-being and thriving. How to Work on Self Actualization If you'd like to focus on self-actualization, there are preliminary steps that you can take: ● Accept yourself fully. ● Consider where and why you get your motivation to live each day. ● Consider what you are looking to accomplish and why you would feel fulfilled. ● Be flexible with the bumps in life, and not see them as threats to you or your sense of self. ● You might consider consulting a psychologist if you are keen to get started. They can help you determine the best path and work with you to overcome any obstacles to your self-actualization. If you are looking for a licensed clinical psychologist in Miami, who can help you on your path towards self-actualization, Dr. Carolina Raeburn, PsyD, may be able to help. For more information, please visit https://carolinaraeburn.com/. *All the information published in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Any information provided here is offered in generic form. Please consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.
0 Comments
|