Wednesday 26 June 2013

Important Facts Regarding Self Realization Actualization

By Myrtle Cash


Self realization actualization is a term that used in psychology theories. The term was first used by Kurt Goldstein a renowned organismic theorist. Actualization can be exemplified in activities such as expression of creativity, search for spiritual enlightenment, quest for knowledge and wish to serve the society. According to Goldstein, the main drive of actualization is what is referred to as the master motive or the desire to self-actualize.

Abraham Maslow is the other individual who attempted to explain this concept at length. He describes it as the highest level of psychological development which is realized after all the basic needs have been met. The basic needs, according to Maslow, include food, sense of belonging, shelter, warmth and security among others. It is only after these are obtained fully that a person can claim to find 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.

Self-actualized individuals have accepted the fact that they are humans and such they have some flaws that they have to live with. Similarly, they have accepted the flaws of other people and the challenges of nature and are ready to accommodate them. Many of them are spontaneous and reactive creatively even when faced with unexpected circumstances. For this reason, they can adapt to almost any situation that faces them.

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.

Realization is often used separately from actualization in some contexts. It refers to the independence that one acquires from external coercion. This includes freedom from political, economic and cultural influences. The main governing principle in this theory is that in each person is an authentic self that has to be discovered through spiritual striving. This can happen gradually over time or instantaneously as long as adequate preparation of the mind has been done.

In Eastern cultures, the concept is mainly regarded as having a religious meaning. In the Hindu religion, it is defined as the recognition of the true self. This has been more advanced by Advaita Vedanta which emphasizes the importance of selfless love as the most important attribute of realization. There is reference to the same in Sikhism and Buddhism.

Self realization actualization theories have variable interpretations in different fields. These different areas include the fields of psychology, religion and spirituality. There have been many criticisms against the theories over the years and some of the previously-held views have been dropped or changed. At the same time all the different areas hold some common believes as relate to the theories.




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