Basic Information Related To Self Realization Actualization

Self realization actualization are concepts that have been widely studied by psychologists. A famous organismic theorist known as Kurt Goldstein is the first user of this term. The concept is epitomized in activities such as the deep desire to serve the society, quest for knowledge, pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and expression of creativity among others. Goldstein stated that a master motive or a deep desire to actualize is the main driving force.

This theory was explained further by Abraham Maslow. According to Maslow, this concept represents the highest achievable level of psychological development. This level is attained after the basic human needs have been comfortably met. The basic needs according to the theorist include food, warmth, shelter, security and sense of belonging among others. Only when all these have been fully satisfied will an individual start finding meaning in life.

Maslow expounded on the theory further by listing the attributes that can be used to identify individuals that have actualized. While they may come from diverse backgrounds, they all have a number of things in common. One of the most distinguishing features is that they can live creatively since they have realised their full potential. They have learnt to make an honest judgement of situations and for this reason they do not like persons that are dishonest and fake.

When you are actualized, you comfortably accept your personality, other people and nature. You recognize that you have flaws as a human being and you are ready to accommodate them. In the same manner, you are willing to accept the fact that other people also have flaws and you are ready to live with these shortcomings. An actualizer is spontaneous and employs creativity in everyday activities. This gives them the ability to adapt to any situation.

Another characteristic feature is that these people enjoy fellowship with other people and the entire humanity. They want to identify with other people at all times and can therefore form very strong interpersonal relationships. Ironically, they can also do well in solitude. This is an opportunity to think about their lives. Other features include autonomy, constant appreciation and a good sense of humor.

Some schools of thought have defined self-realization separately from actualization. They define it as the independence acquired from external coercion. Such coercion may be economic, political or cultural. The main governing principle here is that in each person is an authentic self that can only be discovered through constant spiritual striving. This can take place instantaneously or gradually over a long period of time. The only pre-requisite is that the mind should be appropriately prepared.

In the Eastern cultures, realization and actualization are encountered in religious contexts. In Hindu, for instance, it is said to refer to the process of identifying the true self. This has been expounded in the Advaita Vedanta which advocates for selfless love. Sikhism and Buddhism also make references to the same.

The self realization actualization is a theory that has different meanings to different people. The different areas that deal with this concept include religion, spirituality and psychology. All the same, there are many similarities that exist in the manner in which the concept is viewed by the different fields. Over the years, many criticisms have come up that have reshaped the theory.