self-actualization

[ self-ak-choo-uh-luh-zey-shuhn, self-ak- ]

noun

, Psychology.

1. the achievement of one's full potential through creativity, independence, spontaneity, and a grasp of the real world.

self-actualization

noun

1. psychol the process of establishing oneself as a whole person, able to develop one's abilities and to understand oneself

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-actualization¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Sometimes, jobs and paychecks come out ahead of self-actualization.

From The Daily Beast

[P]rosperity and equality bring greater opportunities for self-actualization.

From The Daily Beast

If there was real empowerment behind princesses, they'd be a powerful tool for girls' self-actualization.

From The Daily Beast

But in the philosophy of Hegel religion is a part of God--a stage in the development or self-actualization of God.

From Project Gutenberg

They bring something to the dialogue in which self-actualization occurs.

From Project Gutenberg