Hey turtoni,

I've always considered myself completely individualistic. I can't be
neatly pigeonholed into any category, philosophically-speaking. And
yet, this Maslow is close.

Case in point, the very interesting part of your long post. Allow me
to dissect and discern:
I’ll put my response surrounded by asterisks…

Maslow writes the following of self-actualizing people:
They embrace the facts and realities of the world (including
themselves) rather than denying or avoiding them.

***** Ok with that one, that’s pretty much me, don’t deny the
miserable sphere I’m trapped in – didn’t say I was an optimist*****

They are spontaneous in their ideas and actions.

*** Yep *****

They are creative.

***** I feel I’m pretty innovative in thought process, however NO
artistic ability whatsoever******

They are interested in solving problems; this often includes the
problems of others. Solving these problems is often a key focus in
their lives.

**** Very interested in problem solving, Have some compulsion to solve
other people’s problems; it’s a curse. I avoid people like the plague
to control the amount of problems I need to get involved with {you all
need so much help} – That last statement in brackets sounds pretty
condescending and self-righteous, doesn’t it???****

They feel a closeness to other people, and generally appreciate life.

**** Maslow (I thought His name had a “Z” instead of an “S”) missed me
on this one. I feel like I’m of another species. I hope every day will
be my last.*****

They have a system of morality that is fully internalized and
independent of external authority.

*****Maslow hits the nail on the head with this one. This is 100%%
me.********

They have discernment and are able to view all things in an objective
manner.

****Maslow is on a roll. 2 in a row, I think I can be objective about
myself better than the vast majority of people can***

It’s me again, without asterisks. Whatever labels Maslow wants to
apply, and self-actualizing sounds ok, I can relate to part of it. I
just call it – “the big picture approach”
There were some descriptions of these alleged self-actualized
individuals that you numbered [or someone numbered]. Very interesting
reading, but highly subjective.
I’m thankful you posted all this, well worth reading…
See ya’ around the forum,
K e v