The Hierarchy of Needs, first published in 1943 as part of “A Theory of Human Motivation” in Psychological Review, has served as the basis for understanding human motivation since then.
The hierarchy, which is usually diagramed like a pyramid, is widely recognized as an illustration of what humans require from life and in what order they require it.
According to a transformative psychologist from San Francisco, Maslow’s hierarchy is incomplete.
After the hierarchy was published, Maslow began working on the final stage of human motivation. self-actualization was not the pinnacle of individual human achievement; rather, it represented self-transcendence.
It’s not an elevating of the self; it’s a subverting of it.
What is self-transcendence?
Self-transcendence It is “the urge toward the further evolution of consciousness” and entails a “desire to reach beyond the current level of development.”
The self-transcendent person is motivated by a desire to grow, improve, and become more than what they are.
Self-transcendence is often associated with religious or spiritual beliefs, as it represents a desire to transcend the individual self and connect with something larger.
However, self-transcendence does not necessarily require any specific beliefs or practices. Instead, it is simply a recognition that there is more to life than meets the eye and a desire to explore what lies beyond our current understanding.
Self-transcendence represents a shift in focus from the individual self to something larger.
This can be a physical shift, such as moving from a focus on the material world to a focus on the natural world. It can also be a mental shift, such as moving from a focus on the ego to a focus on the soul.
In either case, self-transcendence entails a recognition that there is more to life than our individual experience.
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What are self-transcendence values?
Self-transcendence values are those that motivate us to connect with something larger than ourselves.
These values can include growth, improvement, and a desire to become more than what we are.
They also often involve a recognition that there is more to life than our individual experience and a desire to explore what lies beyond our current understanding.
Self-transcendence values can be a powerful force in our lives, motivating us to reach beyond our current limitations and discover new horizons.
When we connect with these values, we may find ourselves inspired to achieve things we never thought possible. We may also come to see the world in a new light and find greater meaning in our lives.
As we begin to live in accordance with these values, we may even start to feel like part of something larger – something more vast and infinitely more wonderful than ourselves.
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How do you transcendence yourself?
There are many ways to achieve self-transcendence. Here are some examples:
Connect with nature
In order to achieve transcendence, it is essential to connect with nature. This connection can be achieved in many ways, such as spending time in nature, observing the natural world, or even connecting with the natural cycles of the body.
When we connect with nature, we are able to step outside of our usual perspective and see the world from a new perspective.
This fresh perspective can help us to see things in a new light and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
In addition, connecting with nature can also help us to feel more connected to the larger universe and tap into our own spiritual energy.
By connecting with nature, we are able to transcend our usual limitations and connect with something much larger and more profound.
Spend time in silence and solitude
In today’s world, it can be hard to find time for silence and solitude. We are constantly bombarded with noise and stimulation, and it can be difficult to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
However, making time for silence and solitude is essential for our mental and spiritual well-being.
When we spend time in silence, we are able to connect with our innermost thoughts and feelings. We can reflect on our lives without distractions and gain a greater understanding of who we are and what we want from life.
In addition, spending time in nature can help to boost our mood and mental health. Being in nature reminds us of the beauty and simplicity of life and helps us to appreciate the world around us.
Explore other cultures and worldview
In order to fully understand our own culture and worldview, it is essential to explore others.
By understanding the customs, values, and beliefs of others, we can gain a new perspective on our own lives. Additionally, by engaging with different cultures, we can learn more about ourselves and what we believe in.
Furthermore, exploring other cultures can help us to appreciate the diversity of the world and to develop a more tolerant outlook.
By transcending our own cultural boundaries, we can become more open-minded and compassionate individuals.
Be creative and expressive
In order to transcend yourself, it is essential to be creative and expressive. This means using your creativity to find new ways of doing things and expressing yourself in your work, whether it is through art, writing, or another form of expression.
It is also important to be open to new ideas and ways of thinking. By pushing yourself to try new things, you can open yourself up to new possibilities and ways of looking at the world.
Transcendence comes from within, so by working on your own personal development, you can reach new levels of growth and potential.
Serve others and make a difference in the world
The secret to transcending yourself is not found in selfish pursuits but in selfless service to others. When you give your time, energy, and resources to help others, you open the door to personal growth and transformation.
By making a difference in the lives of others, you expand your own horizons and develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world.
In the process, you will discover new talents and abilities that you never knew you had. So instead of chasing after material possessions or personal glory, focus on serving others and making a positive difference in the world.
It is through these acts of kindness and compassion that you will find true transcendence.
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What are the benefits of transcendence?
There are many benefits of transcendence, both for individuals and for society as a whole. When individuals transcend themselves, they are able to:
- Reach new levels of growth and potential.
- They can connect with their innermost thoughts and feelings
- Gain a greater understanding of who they are and what they want from life.
- They can develop a more tolerant outlook and become more open-minded and compassionate individuals.
As a result, society as a whole can benefit from increased understanding and cooperation.
In addition, transcendence can help to create a more harmonious world by promoting peace, love, and understanding.
Consequently, it is evident that transcendence is beneficial in numerous ways and should be encouraged.
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The takeaway
Transcendence is the act of moving beyond the limits of your current state or condition, and it can be both an individual and a collective experience.
When individuals transcend themselves, they are able to reach new levels of growth and potential.
They can connect with their innermost thoughts and feelings and gain a greater understanding of who they are and what they want from life.
In addition, they can develop a more tolerant outlook and become more open-minded and compassionate individuals. As a result, society as a whole can benefit from increased understanding and cooperation.
In addition, transcendence can help to create a more harmonious world by promoting peace, love, and understanding. By transcending our limitations, we have the power to transform ourselves and the world around us.