Self-Actualizing Characteristics

from Cindy Clemens, Life Coach

In a recent newsletter from Cheryl Richardson I came across an interesting list of characteristics for self-actualization from Abraham Maslow, founder of humanistic psychology.

Maslow’s Self-Actualizing Characteristics

• See problems in terms of challenges and situations requiring solutions, rather than see problems as personal complaints or excuses.


• Need for privacy and comfortable being alone.


• Reliant on own experiences and judgment – independent – not reliant on culture and environment to form opinions and views.


• Not susceptible to social pressures – non-conformist.


• Democratic, fair and non-discriminating – embracing and enjoying all cultures, races and individual styles.


• Socially compassionate – possessing humanity.


• Accepting others as they are and not trying to change people.


• Comfortable with oneself – despite any unconventional tendencies.


• A few close intimate friends rather than many surface relationships.


• Sense of humor directed at oneself or the human condition, rather than at the expense of others.


• Spontaneous and natural – true to oneself, rather than being how others want.


• Excited and interested in everything, even ordinary things.


• Creative, inventive and original