Self-Actualization
Self-actualisation is the process of realising one's fullest potential — developing one's abilities, pursuing meaningful goals, and becoming the most complete version of oneself. First articulated by Abraham Maslow, it represents the pinnacle of human psychological development.
What it is
Abraham Maslow introduced self-actualisation in his 1943 paper 'A Theory of Human Motivation'. He placed it at the apex of his hierarchy of needs, to be pursued once more basic needs — physiological, safety, belonging, and esteem — are sufficiently met. Maslow described self-actualising people as those who are creative, spontaneous, problem-centred rather than ego-centred, and able to experience peak moments of profound meaning and connection.
Later thinkers, including Carl Rogers (who used the term 'fully functioning person') and Ken Wilber (in his integral theory), developed related concepts. Maslow himself acknowledged that self-actualisation is a process, not a destination — one moves toward it and away from it continuously. He also noted that self-actualisation is deeply individual: it looks different for a musician, a scientist, and a parent.
How it is used in coaching
Self-actualisation provides a motivating vision for coaching — the idea that there is a more developed, more authentic version of a person that can be worked toward. Coaches working at deeper levels help clients clarify their values, identify what they find intrinsically meaningful, and remove internal and external obstacles to full expression. It connects directly to purpose-finding, career coaching, and life design.
Key benefits & applications
Provides a compelling vision of growth; deeply motivating for intrinsically-oriented clients; connects individual development to meaning and purpose; integrates well with values-based coaching.
What our members have to say
Perspectives from coaches and institutes in the CoachScape community.
Member perspectives on this topic will appear here soon.
Bibliography
A curated selection of the most important literature on this topic.
No bibliography has been published for this topic yet.
Submissions are open to coaches and companies and are reviewed by our editors.