The Importance of Self-Actualization

Life is a journey

Let’s discuss a topic that has been resonating with me for quite some time. And it’s only after hearing something on the Lex Fridman podcast, which was an interview with Dr. Manolis Kellis, that I was ready to discuss the subject. I believe life is about self-actualization and our lifelong journey to find what makes us tick, and I have only recently realized this is one of the great journeys in life.

The Lex Fridman podcast episode #373 from April 22, 2023, where Dr. Kellis, a brilliant computational biologist, touched upon the importance of self-actualization, and his words struck a chord with me.

Lex said Dr. Kellis mentioned an updated answer to the meaning of life, and this version was self-actualization. Dr. Kellis said “Let’s try to figure out, number one, what am I supposed to be. And number two, find the strength to actually become it.” Now, this may sound straightforward, but I know firsthand that the process of self-discovery can be challenging and even daunting. However, I firmly believe that it is a journey worth taking.

It's essential to understand that the process of self-actualization is unique to each individual. Some may find their calling quickly, while others may take years to discover for what brings them joy and purpose.

I've experienced this journey myself, from finding myself in a mental hospital and being in the lowest and darkest place in my life, to finally figuring out in my 50s what I wanted to do with my professional life and career, and I can assure you that it's a transformative experience. It led me to create this newsletter, where I can share my thoughts, experiences, and insights with all of you. I've discovered that writing and connecting with others through my words is what brings me the most satisfaction. And guess what? It took me years to figure that out.

I also figured out that I want to be involved in technology. I want to be an expert. I want to do research, teach, consult, speak, write, and evangelize about future technology and its impact on the world and society.

The journey of self-actualization is not a race. It's a lifelong commitment to personal growth and self-improvement. It's about having the courage to explore the depths of your own soul and embracing the beautiful, messy, and complex human being that you are.

Identifying the passions and hobbies that bring genuine joy and fulfilment is a crucial first step towards pursuing them wholeheartedly. You have to know what it is that you want before you can step on the path to find it and apply it in your life. Like Dr. Kellis says, “Figure out what you are supposed to be.”

Formulating precise goals around these activities helps give direction in the journey. But, the goals must also be tailored according to individual values - which often leads us to break down processes so they become more manageable goalposts along the way – allowing for ongoing engagement without becoming overwhelmed by expectations.

Finally, you have to find your people - how are you going to create anything worthwhile when you are only living in an echo chamber of your own thoughts? Find friends, mentors, teachers, and visionaries – and pull them into your circle. Thrive on the positive vibrations their own journeys create in them

The path towards realizing our full potential can be a long and winding road filled with obstacles along the way - but it's worth it! According to Dr. Manolis Kellis, educating ourselves continuously helps us reach our desired outcomes faster by providing valuable context.

Take it from me, someone who has been on the journey his entire life and only recently made the breakthrough of figuring out what I wanted to do with my life, the journey is worth it. You may never reach the end or find the pinnacle of success, but you will find out the answer all along was the journey.

Our lives have meaning when we are searching when we are pushing toward a goal, when we have our eyes on the prize.

If you haven’t started your journey yet, start today, it’s never too late to start figuring out what it is you should be doing and getting out there and doing it.