Characteristics of Self-Actualized People

Over the last few weeks, we have discussed some of the concepts around self -actualization. Below is a list of 16 characteristics of self-actualized people that Psychologist Abraham Maslow used to describe the most psychologically advanced humans among us:

1. They are realistically oriented.
2. They accept themselves, other people, and the natural world for what they are.
3. They have a great deal of spontaneity.
4. They are problem-centered rather than self-centered.
5. They have an air of detachment and a need for privacy.
6. They are autonomous and independent.
7. Their appreciation of people and things is fresh rather than stereotyped.
8. Most of them have had profound mystical or spiritual experiences, although not necessarily religious in character.
9. They identify with mankind.
10. Their intimate relationships with a few specially loved people tend to be profound and deeply emotional rather than superficial.
11. Their values and attitudes are democratic.
12. They do not confuse means with ends.
13. Their sense of humor is philosophical rather than hostile.
14. They have a great fund of creativeness.
15. They resist conformity to the culture.
16. They transcend the environment rather than just coping with it.

Think about the people you know. Those that are truly happy have many of the traits above. The question is, would the people that know you well, use these characteristics to describe you? What could you do to more closely align yourself with these attributes?

Over the course of this week, pick one or two characteristics of self-actualized people, that you feel you could improve upon and focus on making it happen.