Maslow's self-actualization

Self-actualisation refers to the need for personal growth that is present throughout a person’s life. For Abraham Maslow an American psychologist, a person is always “becoming” and never remains static in these terms. In self-actualisation a person comes to find a meaning to life that is important to them.

The hierarchies of needs, according to Maslow, include:

1. Biological and Physiological needs - air, food, drink, shelter, warmth, sex, sleep, etc.
2. Safety needs - protection from elements, security, order, law, limits, stability, etc.
3. Belongingness and Love needs - work group, family, affection, relationships, etc.
4. Esteem needs - self-esteem, achievement, mastery, independence, status, dominance, prestige, managerial responsibility, etc.
5. Cognitive needs - knowledge, meaning, etc.
6. Aesthetic needs - appreciation and search for beauty, balance, form, etc.
7. Self-Actualization needs-realizing personal potential, self-fulfillment, seeking personal growth and peak experiences.

Characteristics of self-actualised person

Self-actualization refers to the need for personal growth that is present throughout a person’s life. Following are the some characteristics which a self-actualized person should have:

1. They perceive reality efficiently and can tolerate uncertainty;
2. Accept themselves and others for what they are;
3. Spontaneous in thought and action;
4. Problem-centred (not self-centred);
5. Unusual sense of humour;
6. Able to look at life objectively;
7. Highly creative;
8. Resistant to enculturation, but not purposely unconventional;
9. Concerned for the welfare of humanity;
10. Capable of deep appreciation of basic life-experience;
11. Establish deep satisfying interpersonal relationships with a few people;
12. Peak experiences;
13. Need for privacy;
14. Democratic attitudes;
15. Strong moral/ethical standards.

Pancasila (Five precepts of Buddhism)

Buddhism invites the lay Buddhists to adopt five precepts voluntarily to follow in order to live together in civilized communities with mutual trust and respect. Following five precepts helps the lay Buddhist to make a spiritual journey towards liberation. These five precepts are purely voluntary ones. A good Buddhist should remind himself to follow the five precepts daily they are as follows; 

1. I take the training rule to refrain from Killing living creatures
2. Taking which is not given 
3. Sexual misconduct 
4. False speech 
5. Taking intoxicating drugs and liquor 

The precepts are the basic practice in Buddhism. They are also an indispensable basis for people who wish to cultivate their minds.

Without some basic moral code, the power of meditation can often be applied for some wrong and selfish motive. These five refrains is called as Pancasila.