Self-actualization

What is self-actualization and how can it help your business?

Self-actualization is a term that has been used in various psychology theories, often in slightly different ways (e.g., Goldstein, Maslow, Rogers). The term was originally introduced by the organism theorist Kurt Goldstein for the motive to realize all of one's potentialities. In his view, it is the master motive—indeed, the only real motive a person has, all others being merely manifestations of it. However, the concept was brought to prominence in Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory as the final level of psychological development that can be achieved when all basic and mental needs are fulfilled and the "actualization" of the full personal potential takes place.

At premiercallcentre.co.uk UK's leader in Call Centres can help you with self-actualization, personal growth, self-help, coaching, and personal development; we cover all aspects of the industry to help your company succeed. Our office is UK centralized and is used for the purpose of working as an advisor to companies to support and advice on any business solutions. See how personal growth, self-help, and personal development differs for business success?

What do the personal growth experts say about happiness and success?

Personal-growth is fairly clear. It is the process of growing, and it relates to the person (as opposed to professional growth, for example). Personal growth is the process of expanding our horizons, improving ourselves, learning, etc. Self-growth means pretty well the same thing, and so does personal development. Self-improvement is similar; although it does clarify in no uncertain terms that we are growing in a positive direction.

All of these terms are process. None are destinations. Self-actualization is a destination. It is a state of being. If we grow or develop in our daily lives, we can become self-actualized.

Dr. Abraham Maslow first coined the term "self actualization. Here is what he has to say on the subject:

    "A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be at peace with himself. What a man can be, he must be. This is the need we may call self-actualization ... It refers to man's desire for fulfillment, namely to the tendency for him to become actually in what he is potentially: to become everything that one is capable of becoming ..."

But self-actualization is also a process. Nobody arrives at a point where they can simply say, "Now I am self-actualized. I don't need to grow anymore." Simply put, personal growth is a fundamental element of self-actualization.

Self Help and Positive thinking

Self-help is a much broader term. It can be used for any do-it-yourself information – including everything on this web site. But self-help can also refer to do-it-yourself dental surgery or, more likely, instructions on how to build a composting system or bake a delicious cheesecake.

And positive thinking, another term I like, is really just a tool or an aspect of being happy or being self-actualized, and it is useful for personal growth or personal development. But positive thinking does not in itself create happiness.

Common traits amongst people who have reached self-actualization are:

• They embrace reality and facts rather than denying truth.
• They are spontaneous.
• They are interested in solving problems.
• They are accepting of themselves and others and lack prejudice.

In addition to describing what is meant by self-actualization in his theory, Maslow also identified some of the key characteristics of self-actualized people:

• Acceptance and Realism: Self-actualized people have realistic perceptions of themselves, others and the world around them.
• Problem-centering: Self-actualized individuals are concerned with solving problems outside of themselves, including helping others and finding solutions to problems in the external world. These people are often motivated by a sense of personal responsibility and ethics.
• Spontaneity: Self-actualized people are spontaneous in their internal thoughts and outward behavior. While they can conform to rules and social expectations, they also tend to be open and unconventional.
• Autonomy and Solitude: Another characteristic of self-actualized people is the need for independence and privacy. While they enjoy the company of others, these individuals need time to focus on developing their own individual potential.
• Continued Freshness of Appreciation: Self-actualized people tend to view the world with a continual sense of appreciation, wonder and awe. Even simple experiences continue to be a source of inspiration and pleasure.
• Peak Experiences: Individuals who are self-actualized often have what Maslow termed peak experiences, or moments of intense joy, wonder, awe and ecstasy. After these experiences, people feel inspired, strengthened, renewed or transformed.

Criticisms of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

While some research showed some support for Maslow’s theories, most research has not been able to substantiate the idea of a needs hierarchy. It was reported that there was little evidence for Maslow’s ranking of these needs and even less evidence that these needs are in a hierarchical order.

Other criticisms of Maslow’s theory note that his definition of self-actualization is difficult to test scientifically. His research on self-actualization was also based on a very limited sample of individuals, including people he knew as well as biographies of famous individuals that Maslow believed to be self-actualized, such as Albert Einstein and Eleanor Roosevelt. Regardless of these criticisms, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs represents part of an important shift in psychology. Rather than focusing on abnormal behavior and development, Maslow’s humanistic psychology was focused on the development of healthy individuals.

How can Premiercallcentre.co.uk help?

Call us if you require more information on personal growth, self-help, personal development or self actualization or for any other professional business matter, we will be able to establish your needs and the nature of your call and handle this in line with your requirements?