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

The artist turns the self-actualization aphorism “Fake it till you make it” into the work’s self-deprecating title, as if faking can only result in fakes.

From New York Times

As in the original film, the latest Cady is a quick study and soon learns her new habitat’s rules on her way to self-actualization and group acceptance.

From New York Times

The show stresses that Elle has struggled with her identity partially because of the lack of acceptance from ignorant people, and partly because she's a teenager who's still on her journey to self-actualization.

From Salon

Its conclusions about self-actualization pull less attention, as is the way of all innocuous, pleasing outcomes.

From Salon

And yet the self-actualization of Ingalls’ heroines isn’t quite independent; it still comes through a male vector.

From Los Angeles Times