The topic of self-realization has nothing to do with hocus-pocus. Well-known psychologists, philosophers, writers and health experts have already dealt with the term and tried to fathom its meaning.
What does self-realization mean?
Probably the most common definition of self-actualization comes from Abraham Maslow. According to his theory, every person strives for self-actualization when their basic needs such as food, protection and security are met. Only when these basic requirements have been met do we develop the desire for a goal in life and to express our individual nature.
According to Aristotle, the urge for self-development is then a natural human need. Conclusion of all current theories: It is in our nature to want to go our own way and decide individually how to shape our lives.
Why is it a challenge to realize ourselves?
Our self-development can affect the most diverse areas of our lives. From deciding on a particular career to family planning and pursuing certain hobbies, everything can serve to help us realize ourselves - and thus take a step towards greater satisfaction.
But how can this be achieved in concrete terms? And why do many people feel that they have no opportunity, time or energy for self-development due to the stress of everyday life and the many expectations placed on us every day? There can be various reasons for this: First and foremost, there are social obligations and apparent constraints that arise in the course of life. As a company employee, parent, best friend or spouse, we have to meet certain demands - or so it feels for some of us - and are subsequently confronted with restrictions that stand in the way of our self-realization.
Added to this are obligations that arise in connection with fulfilling our basic needs. If you want to have a roof over your head and enough to eat, you have to take care of this - and therefore also take on tasks that may not correspond to your own wishes.
Last but not least, it is of course also our own thoughts and attitudes that can work against self-development. If you think that nothing can or will change anyway, you will hardly be able to change your life for the better. But you can also work on this attitude.
How can I better realize myself?
It is therefore helpful to start by lowering our expectations of ourselves. However, if you want to realize yourself, you don't have to turn your whole life upside down overnight. With a few simple measures, you can achieve a lot and increase your satisfaction.
It all starts with self-analysis: What is important to you in life? Which goals do you absolutely want to achieve and which dreams should come true? A diary in which you record things that make you happy and less happy can be helpful.
Once you have set your goals, you can set smaller sub-goals that can be achieved with less effort and in a shorter time frame. All you need now is a little courage and self-confidence - and you can take the first of many steps towards your own self-realization.
From now on, work continuously on your goals and regularly ask yourself whether your decisions are really in line with your wishes, moving closer and closer to self-realization - not necessarily from day to day, but in small, but all the more sustainable steps.
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