A few examples of behavior a self-actualized person might exhibit include: Finding humor in a given situation. Getting enjoyment and satisfaction out of the present moment. Understanding what they need in order to gain a sense of fulfillment. Tendency to feel secure and unashamed in who they are. Self-actualization, in psychology, a concept regarding the process by which an individual reaches his or her full potential. ... Similar to Goldstein, Maslow saw self-actualization as the fulfillment of one's greatest potential. Self-actualization needs are the highest level in Maslow's hierarchy, and refer to the realization of a person's potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth and peak experiences. Maslow (1943) describes this level as the desire to accomplish everything that one can, to become the most that one can be. Higher esteem needs might include the desire for physical strength, knowledge, competence, independence and freedom. Lower esteem needs might include status, recognition, fame, celebrity, prestige and any form of attention.