Affiliate links may be used in this post. I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate link. Read my full disclosure policy here.
What does Self-Actualization mean? Why does it matter? I heard a quote once that most people don’t even come close to achieving their full potential. Initially, this seemed like a really sad thought, but then I thought about flipping it in a positive way– maybe it meant that whatever level I was at in any given area of my life probably didn’t represent my full potential, which would mean that I had tremendous opportunity for growth in life. This opportunity for growth and potential is self-actualization to me. In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, he talks about self-actualization that is reserved for only a small portion of the population, but I strongly believe that anyone can achieve a form of self-actualization on any given day. It is not something that I can check off a list (and you know I love lists!), but the act of seeking it on a regular basis can bring great fulfillment and joy into my life – and that is why it is worth pursuing.
With that in mind, here is my Self-Actualization Manifesto. Because I am all about growth and development, I fully reserve the right to grow and adapt this over time.
Self-Actualization is:
- An ongoing journey
- A mindset
- Available
- Highly individualized
- Uncomfortable at times
- An acceptance of what is
- Growth motivated
Self-Actualization is not:
- Perfection
- One size fits all
- Always easy
- Just for certain people
- Linear
- Deficiency motivated
How to Get Organized at Work