Self-actualization is the "desire to become more and more what one is, to become everything that one is capable of becoming" (Wikipedia). This relates to authenticity because, according to Abraham Maslow, a self actualized person has a realistic perception of themselves and of the world. They know everything that they are and everything that they can be, and see the same in others, so the approval of a infected online world won't affect their standards.
| This video explains 12 characteristics of self actualizing people. The sixth characteristic the video lists is "they demonstrate continuous freshness of appreciation." This act allows them to be positive all the time and look forward to appreciating themselves and others. This, in return, allows them to be happy. They are content with life and their view of it. They don't allow negativity to have an impact on their lives. Being positive is a choice and if you choose it, then you give yourself more room to finding your true self. Dr. Licklider's concept of formulative thinking relates to the concept of self-actualization because you are questioning the obvious question of "am I being authentic?" Later on in the process of trying to answer this question, you stumble upon the more important question "am I happy?" Finding your true happiness allows you to be content with yourself and then you have the ability to express that happiness through your true authentic self. |