Deconstructing Self-Actualization (Part I) - Clarity of Intent

The Society for Human Resource Management annually conducts a study measuring job satisfaction. In 2012 they reported 38% of U.S. employees were “very satisfied” with their job, leaving more than half of the workforce (62%) satisfied or less than satisfied. According to the famous paper “Motivation and Personality” published by Abraham Maslow in (1954) – as humans we seek self-actualization desiring to become more of what we already are. With more than half of the workforce not participating in the pinnacle of satisfaction – it is essential that we comprehend this dichotomy.

The question emerges: how happy are you with your career decisions? Unfortunately most answers range from discontentment to mild-satisfaction, as most people do not fully comprehend what drives their decisions, as they submissive to being reactive to their external environment. For example, in the case of an individual entering a new field, they will face numerous learning curves (cultural, educational, socio-political, etc.) though having clarity in their intent will keep them resilient in light of conflict.

Often we do not question our motives nor do we fully cognize our aspirations – we simply go with the flow. Thomas Edison, Walt Disney, and Steve Jobs did not go with the flow, they proactively (not reactively) planned and passionately executed on their visions. Without clarity we are prone to erroneously make decisions, which we justify due to prestige, compensation, or simply, avoidance of pain (fear). It is imperative that we fathom our motives in order to assess and achieve long-term success, insofar that we lack intent; we continue achieving mediocrity, ensuing, at best, satisfaction.

In sum, when we deliberate our motives we become present to our decisions as we examine them on the basis of empirical truths. As humans we are socially programmed to seek pleasure and avoid pain, understanding this basis will bring to light our true intentions on our path of enlightenment and self-realization.

Resiliency.

As you are aware, we face adversity during every facet of our existence when choosing to be proactive versus reactive- be it in starting a new relationship, pursuing a new career, or simply acquiring a new hobby. When faced with these struggles we tend to cede to our limiting beliefs by blaming external factors versus adapting and maintaining course. Below are some of my reflections and I hope I am able to convey the message as efficient as possible.

During the chaos and convoluted circumstances we find ourselves in- we tend to avoid confronting our conflicts as we seek clarity and comfort through conventional wisdom. The infamous comfort zone. Instead we must confront these limiting beliefs to develop a tolerance, and even a taste for the turmoil that will strengthen us in the process.

In being present we reflect and gather the ability to silence the anxiety experienced as we ground ourselves in reality, maintaining our composure and never over reacting in the face of conflict. Through this process we cultivate resiliency, a virtue that equips us with the tools to see through the trials and tribulations. An aptitude which allows us to endure the many conflicting, chaotic and complex circumstances endured in the course of our journey.

Bottom line: being conscious of the resiliency required in achieving any result is just as important as having clarity of intent.

Hopefully this puts things in perspective and gives you a small thing to think about when the going gets tough. My two cents.