Self Actualization

Self-actualization is the need to fully develop one’s potential talents and capabilities. It is the desire to know and understand. Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs describes an imaginary pyramid that begins with physiological needs at its base and aesthetic principles of self-directed growth at its apex. The triangle first describes the psychological notion of fulfilling biological needs, such as eating and drinking. Safety, love, and self esteem issues follow. After conquering such growth needs, the desire for self-actualization becomes strong as the ambition to know and understand takes precedence, for it is through understanding that we achieve enlightened fulfillment. Each individual reaches self-actualization via a different road. Though the final destination is the same, we attain answers to life’s questions according to our own methods and needs. Once we begin to live with an open mind, we can make strong and effective decisions about relationships, financial situations, and religious faith. Once we answer all of life’s basic questions concerning these issues and look into ourselves to establish our individualistic views on life, we achieve a form of self-actualization.