Self-actualization is a gradual process that takes a significant amount of time. Is this phrase true? Well, let’s explore it.
This morning, I went for a walk on the beach hoping to collect seashells, as I often do. Surprisingly, all I found were broken shells. This got me thinking, that perhaps life isn’t always about being whole; maybe truly there is beauty in broken things. I learned a few important lessons from this; these broken shells were once homes and protection for some animals, meaning that they served their purpose. Even though they are now broken, it doesn’t take away from the fact that they reached their full potential.
Could it be that brokenness is a way for God to make us need him and come searching for our most actualized self? Perhaps. Let’s also not forget that only a sculptor knows what he is trying to actualize from his molding, so why then do we not trust the plan for our lives? While the journey may not look like what we expected at first. The ultimate author knows the plot of our story best. What fun is it more to know how a movie will end when we can sit back with our popcorn to enjoy the thrilling experience of it all? Indeed, our life is a movie, with each one of us playing the lead role.
Attribute it to my adventurous nature, but witnessing what seems like the only option turn into various opening of doors is a wonder of the divine perfectionist, as I like to call him. On the topic of open doors, self-actualization, in my view, entails being in touch with our feelings, and abilities. It is trusting our innermost intuitions. Though this can be accessed in diverse approaches, I have realized that pursuing peace is one of many other avenues to self-actualization.
According to Maslow, “the highest form of self-actualization is the transcending of self.” This means that an individual must first reconnect with themselves. We must value every moment alone until we find peace through the power of love, this is the process of self-actualization. And though finding peace can mean different things to each of us. Whether by feeling calm, comfortable in one’s skin, or achieving what initially appeared unattainable. we must trust the author of our lives and remember that everything works together for the good of those who are called according to God’s purpose (Romans 8:28).
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