Now we will go over some of the terms that are being presented to you: self-actualization, exiting the matrix, core dimensional capabilities, True Self-Actualization, and Hierarchy of Needs Theory.
Origin of Self-Actualization
What does the psychological term ‘self-actualization’ really mean? Dictionary.com’s definition is, “the achievement of one’s full potential through creativity, independence, spontaneity, and a grasp of the real world.”
According to Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory written in 1943, reaching self-actualization is a process of developing to one’s fullest potential based on reaching one’s needs in a certain order; to become everything that one is capable of becoming as long as lower needs are fulfilled. It is becoming as close to your Ideal Self as you are capable.
The Hierarchy of Needs theory assumes that ‘lower’ needs must be satisfied before an individual can focus on higher needs. The original Hierarchy of Needs is made up of these 5 needs, in order: basic needs, safety needs, belongingness, and love needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs (Pearson Education, Inc., 2004).
I disagree with this theory because it is possible to work on multiple aspects of oneself simultaneously and lower needs do not necessarily have to be satisfied to work on higher needs. Thus, sprouted the Core Self-Inventory (Love, 2009).
Understanding True Self-Actualization
True Self-Actualization has two meanings that go hand in hand. Being your True Self is the act of being fully authentic. Self-actualizing means you are becoming more self-actualized, or self-realizing. So, being authentic, or BEING your True Self, means you are becoming closer and closer to being fully self-actualized.
When we are not true to ourselves in any way (CDCs), roadblocks will prevent us from progressing to our fullest, truest potential. Understanding this concept is the first step to becoming the most you can be and getting the most out of life that is possible for you. Often, we can become the roadblock that keeps us from who we want to be and what we want to experience in this life due to our belief system. Introspecting will help you break free from everything you are willing to let go of that is holding you back!
Self-actualization is the process of becoming the best version of yourself possible; toward reaching your truest, highest potential. The process is closely related to being a lifelong learner, but it also includes the intent of self-analyzation, or deep introspection, to better oneself in all of the CDCs based upon your standards.
Personal Assessment
How does one know if they are self-actualizing or are self-actualized? It is important to recognize that only you can conclude whether you are self-actualizing or have self-actualized. Learning and understanding what it is will help you determine where you are in this regard. This is because your human experience is a personal, individual journey; therefore, it is a personal conviction.
This course will encourage you to see that the ONLY opinion of you that matters in the grand scheme of things is YOUR OWN opinion of yourself. This is equally true for both religious and non-religious people because human beings ultimately base their opinions of themselves on a set of standards that they choose to live by. Be cautious of what you believe about yourself and if you doubt how amazing and powerful you are, you will be reminded throughout this course.
Simply put, if you believe in God or not, you adhere to standards that you willingly place upon yourself, and you will base your opinions of yourself against those standards. This coursework takes a neutral stand on religious choices and beliefs; however, reference to religious matters is being mentioned here for clarification for religious individuals to understand that this course does not ignore their truth but aims to help them realize certain truths that they may not have been taught or forgot.
Being Self-Actualized is Evident:
Which is true for you?
