Those familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs should be familiar with the term self actualization. For those unfamiliar with the work of American psychologist Abraham Maslow, I strongly suggest you look into it. It is a very powerful tool for understanding human motivation.

The bare bones of the needs theory is that humans are motivated by different levels of need. The basic survival needs at the bottom and the need for self-actualization at the top. If the lower levels are unmet then the upper needs suffer.

Understanding the hierarchy also helps you understand human behavior, your own and those around you. I spent some time today working on my Maslow page over at Squidoo, and I decided it was a good time to actually define self actualization.

A happy (self-actualized) person:

Understands reality, and accepts responsibility for it. Does not feel threatened by the unknown.
They possess an above average ability to use reason, and to see truth.
They are aware of their strengths and their limitations, and the strengths and limitations of others and accept them.
They are capable of great objectivity, aware of and sensitive to others.
Greater capability to focus on the solution instead of the problem.
Often focused on problems outside of themselves, willing to work toward solving greater problems.

They understand the difference between good and evil, and can distinguish between means and ends.
Do not twist their views in ways that hurt themselves or others.
They are honest, and possess a democratic character.
They tend towards the equality of all human beings, and that every individual has a right to be heard.
Perceive and understand human nature. They accept themselves, others, and circumstances for what they are.

Able to be friendly with anyone and learn from anyone.
A fresh appreciation of people, and appreciate the best aspects in all things.
Do not hold on to stereotypes, or conformity to culture.
Intimate relationships tend to be profound, and sincere rather than superficial.

Interested in deeper and more meaningful relationships.
Can be alone without being lonely, they desire solitude and privacy at times.
Uses quiet time for quiet reflection and private thought, not uncomfortable with silence.
Believe in self, who and what they are, are capable of making decisions and doing things on their own.

Emotionally intelligent, do not need manipulation, guilt, or shame to get what they want.
Greater range of emotional responses to situations.
Thoughts and actions are determined by their own internal moral standards, uninhibited by convention or conformity.
Seek unity and wholeness. Able to merge opposing views into a third possibility, reducing conflict.
They possess an inborn uniqueness that carries into all they do.
Highly creative, art, writing, music, or other creative pursuits are common.

They are highly spontaneous, and have no unnecessary inhibitions.
A natural simplicity, not interested in being who others think they should be.
Child-like approach to life. Finds joy in what is simple and natural, seeks out beauty and serenity.
Still able to enjoy the things of childhood yet retain wisdom of adulthood.
Capable of living moment to moment, life life to the fullest.
Peak experiences come frequently, when they can clearly see what was hidden or clouded before.
Healthy sense of humor, capable of laughing at themselves, no need to use humor that harm others.
Typically seen as good-natured, but capable of great seriousness.

Motivated to continual growth throughout their lifetime.
Understand there are always new things to learn and new ways to grow.
Though comfortable with themselves, they never stop growing.

More Information on Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs