self-actualization

[self-ak-choo-uh-luh-zey-shuh n, self-ak-]

noun Psychology.

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

Origin of self-actualization

First recorded in 1935–40

Also called actualization.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for self-actualization

Contemporary Examples of self-actualization

Sometimes, jobs and paychecks come out ahead of self-actualization.
Earth to DNC: Dyspeptic Dad Still Votes, Too
Lloyd Green
November 11, 2014
[P]rosperity and equality bring greater opportunities for self-actualization.
It's OK to 'Lean Back'
David Frum
March 19, 2013
If there was real empowerment behind princesses, they'd be a powerful tool for girls' self-actualization.
Pop Tarts!
Marisa Meltzer
February 15, 2010

Historical Examples of self-actualization

They bring something to the dialogue in which self-actualization occurs.
Herein is Love
Reuel L. Howe
But in the philosophy of Hegel religion is a part of God--a stage in the development or self-actualization of God.
Christianity and Greek Philosophy
Benjamin Franklin Cocker

British Dictionary definitions for self-actualization

self-actualization

noun

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for self-actualization

1939, from self- + actualization. Popularized, though not coined, by U.S. psychologist and philosopher Abraham H. Maslow (1908-1970).