Reaching Self-Actualization Through Our Jobs [Infographic]

Reaching Self-Actualization Through Our Jobs Infographic According to Abraham Maslow, reaching self-actualization is the ultimate goal of personal development. When we are self-actualized, we are more likely to feel comfortable in who we are to be able to find the reality in agivensituation to be independent thinkers to connect with others in deeper ways and to be compassionate. In order to reach self-actualization, we have to fulfill the more basic needs that reside on the lower levels of Maslows famous hierarchy of needs. These lower levels include our physiological needs (like food and water), safety, love and belonging, and esteem. Achieving these milestones within the confines of our careers can be especially difficult. With that in mind, we offer the following tips on reaching self-actualization in a work environment.SafetySafety and security dont just revolve around having a home and avoidi ng life-threatening danger. Rather, feeling safe and secure also meanshaving things like job security, good health, and general life stability.Finding employmentwith a company that has long-term growth potential or that offers aservice that will never be unnecessary can help ensure job security. You should feel certain about yourcompanys future and vitality.Having stability within yourwork environment is vital, too change can be good, but too much change in too little time can be unsettling.It is also important to find ways to ensure your health. Working in a dangerous job or for a company that lacks health coverage can disrupt onesprogress towards feeling safe. An employer thatoffers paid leave or cost-effective health coverageis a good employer, from a safety standpoint.Love and BelongingLove and belonging is all about relationships. Sometimes, it can be difficult to find friends within the workplace, but doing so is dramatically important. You want to find a work environment that makes you feel valued, like you areparte of a cohesive team. If you dont feel like part of a team,or if you feel secluded from your coworkers, it can be difficult to feel like youbelong.Having friendships in the workplace encourages us to come to work every day, and it makes ajob more enjoyable. Things are less stressful when we have others to talk with and vent to. Look for an office setting that cultivates friendships and open communication. Try to encourage social events outside of work and make efforts to find friends. Also seek out companiesemphasize team-building and group activities.EsteemFor Maslow, esteem is all about feeling successful. This is accomplished through things like awards and respect. An office setting that recognizesachievements throughbonuses and other rewards can help us feel more esteemed.Gaining a higher education can also help us with esteem. College degrees notlage only help us with job security, but they can also help us landhigher positions at work. B eing able to add Dr. or Ph.D. to your name is also a little bit of personal prestigethat should give you a boost every time your write it.Employees who have reached self-actualization tend to be more productive and positive. They become strong leaders in their companies and are usually the ones that others look to for advice. Findingpersonal growth in the workplacebenefits not only you, but also the company your work for.For more onachievingself-actualization at work, check out this infographic, courtesy ofPepperdine University Online.