The concept of Self Actualization is derived from the philosophy of human motivation. It contends with how to fulfil your maximum potential and be the best version of yourself. Abraham Maslow is the most well-known theorist of Self Actualization.
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, focusing on your potential and helping others are the highest necessities. Maslow thought we must first address our fundamental requirements, such as safety, food, and water.
We then try to strengthen social relationships and self-esteem. We can progress to Self Actualization once we have achieved these goals.
But, how do we become self-actualized? The following are some measures we may take to reach Self Actualization:
Learn more about yourself.
Genuine Self Actualization necessitates a thorough awareness of what is beneath the appearance. What exactly are you? What are your innermost ambitions and aspirations in life? What are your apprehensions? What are your blind spots?
Each of us has a distinct personality, a dormant ability just waiting to be realized. As a result, self-awareness and self-knowledge are vital. When you become aware of who you are, this is a considerable challenge to materialize.
A consistent journal practice, coupled with meditation and self-inquiry, provides a firm platform for getting to know oneself profoundly.
Practice acceptance of any circumstances.
Accepting what occurs might assist you in achieving Self Actualization. It may include dealing with problems as they arise, rather than wanting matters had gone otherwise.
It might also imply that you become more at ease with embracing uncertainties in your life. Or it might suggest that you seek to prevent wishful thinking and consider things more realistically.
The human experience is often referred to as acceptance. It’s not always simple to like individuals who misbehave. You may still show compassion by acknowledging that everyone is dealing with their problems.
Make yourself at ease in your own company.
Your loved ones all play a vital role in your life. However, it is as crucial to cultivate your connection with yourself.
Everyone benefits from some alone time, while some people require more or less than others. What you acquire from this time may be more important than how you spend it.
Self-actualized people often feel peaceful and at ease on their own, so reconnect with yourself until you look forward to your alone time as much as the time you spend with others.
Don’t be concerned with conformity.
Maslow goes so far as to claim that being willing to be unpopular is a necessary attribute for Self Actualization.
On some level, many individuals want to change, to go against the norm. But how many of history’s most influential intellectuals were disliked at their time? It isn’t easy to go against tradition or the current norm.
However, the journey to Self Actualization is one of self-trust. The more in tune with your intuition and authenticity, the easier it is to pick a way appropriate for you, regardless of what others think.
Cherish the little moments in life.
It may seem cliche, but it is an essential step toward Self Actualization. Take the time to appreciate parts of your daily life frequently overlooked in the hustle and bustle of existence. Consider a wonderful dinner, cuddles from your pet, nice weather, and a job you adore.
Live your life genuinely.
Living honestly is telling the truth and avoiding falsehood, misdirection, or rejection of your needs. It may imply being less concerned with what others think of you.
Instead of doing what others tell you to do, you follow the wisdom obtained through personal experience and live as per where your heart is.
You’re also truthful with yourself about your wants and desires in life. Of course, you respect the rights and needs of others, but you work to attain your goals in the way that only you can. You seek to maximize your capabilities, not that of others.
To feel and nurture openness.
If we see circumstances as black and white, we may lose out on opportunities that may enrich our lives.
Being more open to new viewpoints, different individuals, and uncomfortable circumstances is advantageous as you progress to Self Actualization. We become more innovative and robust when we see situations from a fresh perspective.
Thinking in black-and-white terms may result in missed opportunities to progress, grow, and explore more critical valuable details. Being open to new knowledge and points of view is essential for Self Actualization.
Consult a therapist.
Therapy helps you measure any of your objectives, including Self Actualization. Also, you do not have to be suffering from a psychiatric condition to seek counselling.
Therapy can help you build empathy, creativity, and sincerity.
Because Self Actualization might be a challenging idea to understand, you can learn more about it in general in therapy. Humanistic treatment includes talk therapy, which most people refer to as therapy.
Try more specialized treatments if you want to delve further into spiritual or existential issues.
The bottom line
Self Actualization is not a universal objective. It might result from developing your passion for art or growing your children to be responsible members of society.
Whatever path you take toward Self Actualization, remember that the goal is to make your life feel more satisfying.
It is not challenging work to complete but rather a series of modest actions you may take as you learn about yourself and your role in the world.
