Pursuit of Fulfillment

Perhaps the one way to be fulfilled is to become congruous. That is, finding alignment between one’s ideal self and their actual self. Reaching equilibrium is always a challenge but, additionally, we also have drives that are counter to our best path, as well as the possibility of being thwarted by flaws in our institutions.

Abraham Maslow’s theory of motivation describes a pathway of prepotent needs: once one fulfills physiological needs, they can strive for social and esteem needs. Once all three of those needs are met, they can strive to reach a state of self-actualization, which can take many forms—from aesthetic engagement to helping others to engaging in philosophy.

We must observe to realize that the society provides no prerequisites for congruity/self-actualization. An individual is innately good and should be capable of making their dreams come true, but the institutions in place hamstring the efforts of individuals to find fulfillment.