The Psychology of Being

Interesting Facts

• The book introduces the concept of «self-actualization», describing it as the process of fully realizing one's personal potential.
• Maslow highlights the distinction between deficiency motivation and being motivation, where the former is related to satisfying basic needs, and the latter to seeking higher meanings and values.
• The author examines phenomenal experiences, such as peak experiences, characterized by moments of ecstasy and deep satisfaction.
• Maslow claims that self-actualizing individuals possess a higher degree of autonomy and independence from external circumstances.
• The book emphasizes the importance of creativity and spontaneity as key characteristics of self-actualizing individuals.
• Maslow introduces the concept of «being values», which include truth, beauty, goodness, and other higher ideals, the pursuit of which is a hallmark of self-actualization.