Abraham Maslow, a psychologist, studied human beings and came up with a hierarchy of needs. It is referred to as Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and is used as a guide to understanding what one needs before attaining self-actualization. So, what is self-actualization? It is the realization of one’s full potential and ability development while caring for life and others more. It is the highest need in the hierarchy, and one needs to achieve other requirements to become fully actualized.
Curious to find out how to attain self-realization, then read on.
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Physiological Needs
Physiological needs are the lowest rank in the hierarchy of needs. They are simply basic biological and physical requirements necessary for survival. They include food, water, air, warmth, sleep, shelter, and clothing. These needs have to be met first for the body to function well. Therefore, they are considered essential needs since they have to be satisfied for progression to take place.
Physiological needs are the foundation of human beings in terms of both physical and mental health. At this level, a person’s actions and motivation to attain these needs come from the instinct to survive.
Safety Needs
Safety needs come right after physiological needs are attained. Safety needs are the security of body, property, health, employment, resources, family, and morality. These needs are satisfied when a person feels safe from any harm. For example, a person’s environment needs to be secure so that families can enjoy and spend time together without worries. Achieving this simple thing is one step away from being fully satisfied at this level.
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For health, a person is entitled to proper and accessible quality health care. Devices that keep one aware of their health should be inexpensive. Examples of these devices are blood sugar test kits (glucometers), blood pressure monitors, and thermometers. Motivation at this level is derived from the hunger for law & order, having control of their life, and security from threats.
Love and Belonging Needs
The third level in the hierarchy of needs is love and belonging. It involves the social aspects of human beings like family, connections, trust, friendships, intimacy, acceptance, affection, and love. Human beings are social beings; hence they desire relationships and interactions. At this stage, a person wants to feel loved and accepted by peers and family while giving love to others.
Romantic ties are also significant here. Feelings of loneliness and depression are a consequence of deprivation of these needs.
Esteem Needs
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It refers to a person’s feelings of self-worth and confidence in oneself. Esteem needs are met when a person is respected, respecting others, belief in self, independence, achievements, prestige, etc. Nowadays, there are several retreat centers meant to train people to become self-aware. Confidence is built in many ways. e.g., physical fitness, promoting positive thinking, embracing your body, accepting feelings, and knowing your values.
A confident woman ensures they take care of their appearance since feeling beautiful also contributes to achieving esteem needs. Simple ways of accentuating your appearance are dressing well, styling your hair, using makeup like lipstick, lip gloss, eyelashes, eyeshadow, etc. One tip for purchasing makeup, e.g., eyelashes, request a high-quality eyelash sample to be sent to you to inspect before buying.
Self-Actualization Needs
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It is the highest level attainable in the hierarchy of needs. At this level, there is a desire to achieve one’s full potential and realization. Unlike the other phases, self-actualization needs increase as needs are met. Achieving one needs motivates a person to attain more and reach even greater levels. Here, people realize their potential differently depending on what a person thinks is meant for them.
Characteristics of a Self-Actualized Person
At this level, some features are standard. They include;
- They are spontaneous; they live life day by day.
- They are usually problem-centered: they can apply their skills in solving problems and giving help to others.
- They are independent in terms of thoughts and feelings.
- A self-actualized person is realistic and views the world differently from others.
- They have practiced self-acceptance.
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How to Attain One’s Full Potential
- Authenticity: being a self-actualized person means being true to yourself and living authentically. It involves living an honest life that is free from outside influences. Only decide from your heart and previous experiences.
- Value the small things: appreciating the small things in life is one step toward realizing your potential. Such things are quality time with family, food and drinks, proper sleep, good weather, etc.
- Acceptance: practicing acceptance in life is very crucial. It leads you to be less anxious about life and situations that are out of your control. Also, practicing acceptance means having realistic thoughts rather than wishful thinking, as you already know that the future is unpredictable.
- Compassion: develop compassion for self and others.
- Spontaneous living: this means living life as it comes with minimal worries. Avoid monotony by trying out new things and taking risks in life.
- Be comfortable in your space: be satisfied with your career, family, spouse, and friends without forgetting yourself.
- Visit a self-awareness retreat center: retreats help rejuvenate and restore the energy lost during the busy week. Organize a mini vacation for yourself at a retreat center to help you attain your potential.
Conclusion
Self-actualization is the highest level attainable, especially for mental health. A self-actualized person creates a peaceful environment for others to live in, inspiring them to reach this level. Although not every human achieves this, it is possible for anyone who dedicates their time to becoming fulfilled.
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