Self-actualization is a life long process of self-awareness, achievement, and the desire to reach one’s full potential. Two of the most prominent psychologists behind the self-actualization theory are Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow. Rogers and Maslow presented a positive perspective of human nature compared to classical psychoanalysts who believed humans to lack the capacity to self-actualize. There are many traits that a self-actualized person strives to achieve, there are different ways a person can be motivated on their quest to be, and there are numerous ways to apply the theory and model to a person’s day-to-day life.
Humanistic traits or basic needs to fill ones potential are necessary for a person to self-actualize. According to the Salem Press Encyclopedia of Health:
“Compared with ordinary or average persons, self-actualizing persons, as Maslow describes them, may be characterized as follows: They show a more efficient and accurate perception of reality, seeing things as they really are rather than as distortions based on wishes or neurotic needs. They accept themselves, others, and nature as they are. They are spontaneous both in behavior and in thinking, and they focus on problems outside themselves rather than being self-centered.” …show more content…
Competence is not just the ability to perform, but it is the desire to learn more through challenging oneself. “Satisfaction of the need for competence is thus an essential prerequisite for full functioning – that is, for actualizing human potential” (Deci, Ryan, & Guay, 2013). Autonomy is essentially having a strong sense of self whereas relatedness wants to find common ground among peers. A person is likely to feel greater autonomy when they are supported and accepted by others. Most everyone has these traits but it is how they are expressed that differentiates between the types of
Humanistic traits or basic needs to fill ones potential are necessary for a person to self-actualize. According to the Salem Press Encyclopedia of Health:
“Compared with ordinary or average persons, self-actualizing persons, as Maslow describes them, may be characterized as follows: They show a more efficient and accurate perception of reality, seeing things as they really are rather than as distortions based on wishes or neurotic needs. They accept themselves, others, and nature as they are. They are spontaneous both in behavior and in thinking, and they focus on problems outside themselves rather than being self-centered.” …show more content…
Competence is not just the ability to perform, but it is the desire to learn more through challenging oneself. “Satisfaction of the need for competence is thus an essential prerequisite for full functioning – that is, for actualizing human potential” (Deci, Ryan, & Guay, 2013). Autonomy is essentially having a strong sense of self whereas relatedness wants to find common ground among peers. A person is likely to feel greater autonomy when they are supported and accepted by others. Most everyone has these traits but it is how they are expressed that differentiates between the types of