Editing Maslow's hierarchy of needs (section)

=== Self-actualization ===
{{Main|Self-actualization}}
"What a man can be, he must be.”{{sfn|Maslow|1954|p=91}} This quotation forms the basis of the perceived need for self-actualization. This level of need refers to the realization of one's full potential. Maslow describes this as the desire to accomplish everything that one can, to become the most that one can be.{{sfn|Maslow|1954|p=92}} People may have a strong, particular desire to become an ideal parent, succeed athletically, or create paintings, pictures, or inventions.{{sfn|Maslow|1954|p=93}} To understand this level of need, a person must not only succeed in the previous needs but master them. Self-actualization can be described as a value-based system when discussing its role in motivation.  Self-actualization is understood as the goal or explicit motive, and the previous stages in Maslow's hierarchy fall in line to become the step-by-step process by which self-actualization is achievable; an explicit motive is the objective of a reward-based system that is used to intrinsically drive the completion of certain values or goals.{{sfn|Deckers|2018}} Individuals who are motivated to pursue this goal seek and understand how their needs, relationships, and sense of self are expressed through their behavior. Self-actualization needs include:{{sfn|Deckers|2018}}
* Partner acquisition
* Parenting
* Utilizing and developing talents and abilities
* Pursuing goals