Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs is also known as "motivation theory." Here is how to become self-actualized, plus an explanation of the benefits of self-actualization.
Once you move past the basic needs in Maslow's hierarchy, you need to find your calling (which is Maslow's self-actualization). Self-actualization involves self-acceptance, self-awareness, and unconditional positive regard.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
Maslow's hierarchy looks like the Food Pyramid for Healthy Eating, but it's based on survival and growth, not food and nutrition (though the concepts are very similar). In this description below, #1 (Physiological needs) is the broad base of the pyramid. Self actualization (#5) is the pinnacle.
- Physiological needs: air, water, food, sleep, sex, excretion.
- Safety needs: secure country, community, job, family, health, resources.
- Love/belonging needs: family, friendship, sexual intimacy
- Esteem needs: confidence, achievement, respect of others, respect by others.
- Self-actualization: creativity, spontaneity, problem-solving, acceptance of reality, lack of prejudice.
What is Self-Actualization?
Maslow studied successful, productive, and wealthy people – who had found their callings – to determine how people fulfill their potential. Abe Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Albert Einstein were some of his "lab rats."
Self-actualized people share certain characteristics. They are:
- Spontaneous in taking action and making decisions
- Interested in solving problems
- Creative in work, family, social, and recreational pursuits
- Close with other people – strong support network (but not a vast one)
- Strong morality system
- Objective perspective, without prejudice
- Focused energy on one particular task: their calling or mission in life
Becoming aware of your self-identity is closely tied in with Maslow's theory of self-actualization.
How to Become Self-Actualized
Carl Rogers agreed with Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Rogers believed that people are basically good and able to self-actualize; this led to his three conditions that promote growth.
Genuineness. You've achieved self-actualization if you can be open with your thoughts and feelings – if your external behavior matches your internal thoughts – if you can drop the façade and be transparent, then you're on the road to actualization and growth. Being honest and real encourages others to be genuine as well.
Acceptance. Unconditional positive regard has been described as an "attitude of grace." When you offer it, you love someone without judging their actions, thoughts, or feelings. You're self-actualized when you value people even as you know their failings and dark sides. Nurturing acceptance and unconditional positive regard toward your own self is key to a happy, peaceful and fulfilled life.
Empathy. When you're self-actualized, you recognize and can relate to others' emotions and experiences. You reflect their feelings and meanings nonjudgmentally; you can put yourself in another's shoes and feel what they're feeling. Self-actualization involves being empathetic.
According to Rogers, these three conditions are ideal for self-actualization. Nurturing genuineness, acceptance, and empathy will help you become self-actualized, find your true calling, and fulfill your potential in life.
Resources
To learn more about self-actualization and motivation, read Increasing Your Self-Awareness.
For more information about psychology and human nature, go to 10 Popular Psychology Articles.
Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen - Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen is a full-time writer and blogger in Vancouver, BC, and the creator of the Quips and Tips blog series.
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