Self-Actualization: Is it Really Out of Reach?

“A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write if he is to be ultimately happy. What a man can be, he must be. This need we may call self-actualization.”

~ Abraham Maslow ~

Whether it was through ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’ or examining the ways propagated by Buddha and Jesus, the concept of self-actualization has been one that we have encountered at some point in our lives. Yet, it has been a concept that has seemed wildly out of reach — one reserved for only the greatest and most disciplined of individuals — but what if it isn’t as out of reach as we may believe?

Throughout this article, we will discuss self-actualization, what a self-actualized person looks like, and how readily available it truly is.

What is Self-Actualization?

Self-actualization, also known as self-realization, is essentially when an individual maximizes their fullest potential and exacts this potential within the fabric of their being. Certain individuals throughout the history of mankind who are referred to as self-actualized are Benjamin Franklin, Nikola Tesla, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Mahatma Gandhi, and Siddhartha Gautama. The reason that such great people became so great, is because they realized themselves and filled their lives with what they are passionate about, and exemplified the meaning of their lives in the ways in which they lived.

According to the psychological theory created by Abraham Maslow, self-actualization is the growth of an individual towards the highest need in life: meaning. When a purpose discovers their calling or life purpose, they will discover the ability to create the life they want, the person they wish to be, and will act out of this higher frequency.

So, what are the tell-tale traits of a self-actualized individual?

Characteristics of the Self-Actualized person

What does it mean to be self-actualized? More importantly, what does it look like? Does it mean being uber spiritual? Is there an objective destination that lies within this seemingly abstract concept? According to Maslow, characteristics of the self-actualized individual are:

• They are embracing the unknown
• They accept themselves as they are
• They are invested in the journey and are not overly concerned with future destinations
• They are unconventional but don’t necessarily strive to be overly shocking or disturbing to others
• They are intrinsically motivated by personal growth rather than temporary gratification
• They have discovered their life’s purpose and honor it in the ways in which they live
• They have expansive vision and do not trouble themselves with little things
• They practice gratitude and appreciation
• They are able to cultivate deep, fulfilling relationships with others
• They practice humility
• They make their mark on the collective by setting themselves apart from it

Reading some of these can be daunting. When I was reading through these traits and characteristics I found myself questioning if I retain any of said qualities. Obviously, we all do. These qualities are inherently within each and every one of us, and all we have to do is cultivate ourselves accordingly and these traits will arise of themselves.

Being self-actualized is no more than realizing your true greatness, identifying your strengths and weaknesses, honing in on your passions, and creating a life that is centered around your unique, individual nature. All of us are capable, so why is it that many of us don’t choose to do this?

This brings us to the last portion of this discussion.

Within vs. Without

One of the most important parts of this theory and concept is that Maslow argues that this journey of self-actualization is not something outside of ourselves that we eventually obtain, but rather, that it is hardwired into our systems as human beings.

He argues that each and every one of us is hardwired to become self-actualized and reach our fullest potential, rather than the idea that it is something we acquire somehow after years of training and hard work. Every single human being has within them a burning fire of authenticity that we have forgotten, and ultimately, that we are afraid to accept because of the vast amount of responsibility it places on us. However, through practicing things such as mindfulness, meditation, and honoring our creative processes, we can awaken ourselves to our true calling and become the greatest versions of ourselves.

You are the only you that ever was and ever will be

Where you are at the time in space is one of the infinite possibilities available to you. In other words, there is no other place you could be that would hold any more meaning than where you are right now. On top of this, you are the only you that has ever been. You are unique in your poise, prose, and creative potential. There will never be another one of you again.

So, do not let the fear of failure or the fear of rejection hinder you from being your greatest self. We have been taught in this society that it is better to fit in than to stand out for fear of being made fun of, being hurt, being rejected, or worst of all, failing. However, the self-actualized person realizes that failure is merely a stepping stone on the road to success — it is the means to learn how not to do something.

Don’t beat yourself up about where you are, and learn to love yourself as you are at this very moment. Don’t trouble yourself with pains of the past or worry yourself with anticipation of the future. Simply look within, discover what sets your soul aflame, and follow your heart. In doing so, I can promise you that you will find fulfillment in your life and create beauty in all that you do.