Lessons from Humanistic Psychology
Recently, having to prepare for a Counselling course application, and I started diving back into the world of humanistic psychology. As I was exploring this branch of psychology, I was reminded of how this is based on principles that are deeply relevant and personally meaningful to me. In fact, Humanistic Psychology is all about finding a purpose, achieving one's full potential, self-development and becoming the best version of ourselves - all concepts that align perfectly with my core values and what I share on my YouTube channel.
In today's newsletter I would like to share the major insight I've gained from key figures in Humanistic Psychology and how they have shaped my understanding of personal growth.
Abraham Maslow - A Journey to Self-Actualisation
Abraham Maslow is mainly known for his hierarchy of needs, which suggests that we must satisfy our basic physiological needs (food, water, shelter) before progressing to higher level needs, until we reach self-actualisation at the top of the pyramid. Maslow believed that everyone has the potential for self-actualisation, that he described as the realisation of one's full potential and the desire for personal growth and fulfilment. However, this can only happen when our foundational needs are secure.
This principle has become central to how I approach life. I consistently prioritise my physical health, financial stability, and relationships because I understand that these are the foundation for becoming my best self. Making sure that these needs are taken care of will allow you to create a stable base from which growth can occur.
Carl Rogers - The Power of Unconditional Positive Regard
Carl Rogers, the founder of person-centred therapy, believed that humans are, at their core, good, and that everyone has inherent value. Rogers introduced the concept of the "real self" (who we truly are) versus the "ideal self." (who we aspire to become). He believed that psychological health involves closing the gap between the two selves, and that we can do that through unconditional positive regard - that is the recognition that we all have inherent worth simply by virtue of being humans.
For someone that, for most of my life, has felt valuable only in terms of productivity and achievement, I found this concept immensely liberating. Rogers' philosophy reminds us that our worth isn't related to what we accomplish - we have value simply because we exist as human being, with inherent goodness and potential for growth.
Viktor Frankl - The Importance of Meaning
Psychiatrist and Holocaust Survivor Viktor Frankl, during his terrible experience in Auschwitz's concentration camps, observed that those who survived the camps were often those who had found meaning in life, and maintained a sense of purpose. He said "he who has a why to live can bear almost any how", to indicate that the primary human drive is the search for meaning, which is an active quest, rather than a passive encounter.
From Frankl, I've learned the critical importance of finding meaning and purpose that extends beyond myself. In my work with clients, I've seen how those who lack meaning often struggle with motivation for treatment and personal growth. When someone has nothing to live for, they have nothing to fight for. For this reason, I have learned to believe that finding purpose is the foundation for resilience and growth.
Fritz Perls: The Power of Present-Moment Awareness
Fritz Perls, the founder of Gestalt therapy, emphasised the importance of present-moment experience rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. In particular, Perls believed that self-awareness is the key to personal growth and development.
This resonates deeply with me because I've come to understand that you can't change what you're not aware of. Self-awareness involves understanding our patterns, recognising our areas for improvement, and taking responsibility for our growth. We need to cultivate deep self-awareness – understanding who we are, how we became this way, and what we want to change. Only through this awareness can we take the first steps toward growth and evolution.
Looking forward - Expanding my Journey
The beauty of humanistic psychology lies in its optimism about human nature - it is a reminder that we all have the capacity for growth, that we are inherently good and that with the right conditions we can (and must) become the best versions of ourselves.
The insight from these thinkers continues to guide not only my personal growth, but also my approach to helping others discover their own potential. I truly believe that there is nothing more powerful then helping someone realise that they, too, have the capacity for transformation and growth.
As I continue this journey, I am now exploring how spiritual practices might complement humanistic psychology. I am beginning to study Buddhism and Stoicism, curious about how these ancient philosophies might increase my understanding of human potential and growth.
Whether you're just beginning your own process of self-discovery or you're well along the path, remember that self-actualisation is the journey, not the destination. It's about embracing your potential, finding meaning in your experiences, and sharing your light with the world around you.
Lessons learned:
- Prioritise your basic needs first - Self-actualisation requires a stable foundation. Take care of your physical health, maintain financial stability and nurture your relationship - because flowers can't grow on dry soil.
- Recognise your values - Work on accepting yourself and others without conditions. Remember that worth isn't earned, but it exists inherently within us. This is what will allow you to close the gap between your real self and your ideal self.
- Find your purpose - Work on actively seeking purpose in all aspects of your life. This will act as a fuel that will allow you to overcome even the most difficult challenges.
- Cultivate self-awareness - Get to know yourself as you would get to know a new friend or partner. Become aware of your experiences, thoughts and feelings without judgement, because you can't improve on what you don't know.