Getting the lower levels in place is the easy part of the process to some, and for others it can be the most challenging. What I’m referring to is Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which is generally depicted in triangular form. Five levels categorize the Hierarchy of Needs, with the top level being self-actualization. Perhaps the easiest way to think about self-actualization is to think of it as living up to one's own sense of potential in every way possible. Once the other basic needs have been satisfied, there is this higher existential desire to feel as though we have reached our highest aspirations. Self-actualization is not an immediate process; it is something that could very well take a lifetime. There isn’t necessarily a definitive moment when self-actualization begins (other than it taking place after the Esteem-level has been reached) but it might be fair to say that once you have settled into the esteem level, the ascent to self-actualization can begin.

For some, there might be mixed feelings surrounding the achievement of this final level. There may be those who think that they reached this plateau too early, and fear the idea that they peaked in life prematurely, and will now have nothing substantial left to accomplish. Opposing that feeling, there are individuals who could feel that it is taking far too long to reach this coveted stage, and that they are running a marathon that has no end in sight. With that in mind, here are some questions that should help you gather your bearings, and be able to determine for yourself how close you are to reaching self-actualization.

1. Do You Feel Trapped In Your Current Situation?

Conceptually, self-actualization represents a holistically satisfying destination. The arrival to that point should provide a sense of gratification, where you feel comfortable residing there, and have a sense of freedom and ability to pursue new and different pursuits now that you have lived up to your potential, as you had previously understood it. Theoretically, a supreme level of comfort with one’s current circumstances should allow them to feel confident in establishing new goals, that enable them to see even further potential within themselves that they were not previously aware of. If you are close to self-actualization, or even feel that you may have achieved it, you will feel contented, and not anxious and stuck.

2. Have You Identifiably Advanced Beyond The Other Four Stages?

It should go without saying that knowing exactly where you are in life is not always the simplest process, and there is nothing wrong with that. However, ideally, you should possess some sense of awareness regarding your existence in each stage so that you know when you have progressed to the next.

3. Do You Feel Close To It?

Although feelings can be deceiving and others might actively encourage you to not invest too much trust into them, there are moments in time where you can simply feel yourself approaching the summit in an extremely tangible way. That is a feeling worth paying attention to.

If you have not reached your self-actualization yet, do not be discouraged, when the time finally comes, you will know. I know that I am still striving toward the goal, and you should as well.