Inspired by thread on "Mediocrity"
What is self actualization?
Is it important to you?
Do you think it should be important to everyone?
Should personal contentment with the way things are or what we have accomplished, although mediocre or minimal, be acceptable?
I had to think about this one for a while [MENTION=1669]Ame[/MENTION]. Very good question, made me question some of my own perceptions.
Self actualization in it's dictionary definition is defined as "the realization of ones talents and potentialities, considered a drive or need present in everyone."
With that in mind, I would have to say that to me self actualization is important although not always obtainable. I don't know how many people actually realize their full potential. I'm not sure if human beings realize their full potential as a species.
When you take into consideration that every persons talents and potential are different, I would have to say that most if not all people possess the drive for self actualization. For some people this may be picking up a fork, for others it may be getting out of a negative situation, and still others it may mean being a gifted musician, healer, etc. Realizing ones full potential also involves a degree of surmounting obstacles, which
everyone faces. So self actualization seems to be linked to environment. I'm not an expert on this subject, I only know my experience.
I think contentment is a different subject altogether. I mean there are some things in life that I am content with but I don't know if I would say they are mediocre or minimal. Sometimes it's a matter of weighing in all the variables. I'll have to get back to you about the contentment vs. mediocrity part. I'm still grappling with some of that in my life. Reminds me of the serenity prayer;
God, give us grace to accept with serenity
the things that cannot be changed,
Courage to change the things
which should be changed,
and the Wisdom to distinguish
the one from the other.