Maslow’s Hierarchy

Highly self-actualized people – often the accomplished artists, authors, athletes, doctors and politicians  – possess many of the following characteristics:

• Realistic, logical and efficient – superior ability to reason, see truth and differentiate between the fake and dishonest and the real and genuine.
• Problem-centered – treat difficulties simply as problems that need solutions.
• Enjoy solitude and themselves without regret or apology. Rely on inner self, not others, for satisfaction.
• Accept themselves, others and the natural world as they are.
• Not very responsive to social pressure. Can be non-conformist.
• Meaningful degree of detachment from physical and social needs, traditions, formality, etc.
• Profound, intimate relationships with a few rather than many shallow relationships. Affection and friendliness shown to everyone.
• Strong ethics. Spiritual, but seldom conventionally religious.
• Freshness of appreciation – ability to see things, even ordinary things, with wonder.
• Spontaneous in their inner life, thoughts and impulses.
• No unnecessary inhibitions – not threatened or frightened by the unknown.
• Self starter – motivated to continually improve. Has a life mission that requires much energy and gives them reason to live.
• Other-centered – focused on problems outside themselves.
• Unflappable – able to retain dignity amid confusion and misfortune.
• Responsible and takes responsibility for self.
• Humble – able to learn from anyone.
• Jokes not at the expense of others, but often about own personal flaws or the shared human condition.
• Indignation with injustice.
• Painfully aware of own imperfections, joyfully aware of own growth process.