List of characteristics for self-actualization

Cheryl Richardson writes:
List of characteristics for self-actualization from Abraham Maslow, founder of humanistic psychology. (You can read the full list and more info about his work here).

As I read through the examples, I thought…

1.These are characteristics of a mature adult.
2.The list provides a beautiful roadmap for growth.
3.Self-love and self-acceptance are at the root of enlightenment.
Check it out…

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.
How’s that for a great end game? The next time you question the investment you make in your own personal growth (or when someone else questions it for you ), just think about the fulfilling life that’s being birthed from your hard work.

From my perspective, you ought to give yourself a BIG HUG!-Cheryl

Being able to be self reflective about all our experiences and interactions is what cultivating awareness and enlightenment is about for me. I have always done this practice since I was a little girl and it does not promise everything will be roses or you will be omnipotent or without problems. It just means that you will learn from your life situations and problems so that you are not robotically going through the motions of someone else's script. This alone can be the biggest threat to many who are not courageous enough to do it for themselves. May be tough and lonely but not glamorous by any means. Never the less the light grows. And that is the guiding sign when the light paves the way and we can notice it shining and choose to follow rather than be cantacorous and deny our spirit. Nothing galmorous, but it is glorious.