Today, I want to discuss a topic that's close to my heart - self-actualization. I used to tell my kids: the best you can become is YOU. You've seen the memes: "Be you, the rest is already taken," or "It's easier to be yourself than someone else." They all ring true, and they all speak to self-actualization: the journey to become yourself.
There's a snapshot from my childhood that captures the essence of this message. In it, I'm in the woods, wearing my dad's shoes (I still have a thing for big boots!), holding a stick, ready to conquer! This image reflects who I am at my core: fearless, strong, inquisitive, and a child of nature. It reminds me of the simplicity of "being" and the beautiful, ever-evolving process of "becoming." Like the famous psychologist Abraham Maslow said, “What a man can be, he must be. This need we call self-actualization.”
Embracing Your Unique Journey
Self-actualization isn't cookie-cutter; it's as varied as we are. For me, tapping into that fearless and inquisitive spirit from my youth helped me recognize my essence. It's about re-embracing who we truly are, our strengths, and our quirks, and become the most authentic version of ourselves.
Becoming involves Overcoming
Becoming is inherently linked to overcoming obstacles. Not just business hurdles, but internal battles of fear, self-doubt, loss, and grief. As women forging our paths, we often become our own harshest critics. A little bit more empathy toward ourselves goes a long way. Empathy is a powerful force! It creates space for us to be, overcome, and become.
The Power of Mindset
This all circles back to mindset. The concept might be well-worn, but it's true: adopt a growth mindset. View challenges as opportunities to expand and evolve. It’s not just about your actions; it’s about the self-awareness you bring to them. Every decision is a step toward becoming the very best version of yourself, more authentically you.
A Life-Long Journey
It took me 57 years to fully embrace my essence, and oddly enough, the passing of my parents played a part in that journey. Releasing their dreams for me was a freeing experience. Now, I realize this path continues for as long as I live, with each step offering a chance to grow into a better person and a more effective entrepreneur.
Embrace Becoming You
As we approach the end of another year, let's commit to our unique paths of becoming. In the new year, let’s strive to realize our full potential, in business and life. Remember, self-actualization isn't a destination; it's the continuous journey of becoming the person you were always meant to be, one moment at a time.
About the author
Bouwien (Bo) Luppes, a seasoned solopreneur, and certified life coach, brings a wealth of global experience to her work. With six successful solo ventures across three countries and two continents under her belt, she intimately understands the challenges faced by women in solo entrepreneurship. This extensive experience merged with a passion for empowering others, inspired her to found Coach 4 Solopreneurs, where she offers support and guidance tailored to the unique journey of female solopreneurs.