Self-realization means striving to develop oneself, fulfill one’s dreams and become the version of oneself that one wants to be. It requires discovering your capabilities and defining the goals you want to achieve. It plays an important role in the life of every person, because it gives a sense of meaning and satisfaction from life.
Self-realization as one of the human needs
The important role of self-realization was pointed out by Abraham Maslow, who placed it at the top of his hierarchy of needs. Modern psychologists and psychotherapists also pay a lot of attention to self-realization, emphasizing its impact on a person’s mental well-being. It is seen as a continuous process that lasts a lifetime. When something disturbs her, her mood is lowered and her sense of meaning is lost. Emotional problems may occur, including depression and psychosomatic symptoms.
Where to start self-realization and what can hinder it?
The first stage of the process of self-realization is to determine your own needs, dreams and possibilities. Already here, factors that hinder self-development may appear, e.g. in the form of external pressure. Lack of support from the environment should not be a reason to give up on your goals.
Self-realization can also be hindered by negative experiences from the past, which resulted in trauma, anxiety disorders and lack of self-confidence. In such a situation, it is worth using psychological help to eliminate difficulties that are a blockage to the realization of one’s potential.
What helps in self-realization?
Self-development is mainly helped by:
- self-awareness, i.e. getting to know yourself and your needs well,
- perseverance in pursuing a goal,
- work on features that hinder the implementation of plans,
- assertiveness,
- the ability to control stress,
- positive thinking,
- surrounding yourself with supportive people.