Five Reasons Why Obama Is Mr. Self-Actualized

It's a rare thing to be Mr. or Ms. Self-Actualized. Less than 1% of us will ever get there. According to psychologist Abraham Maslow, those who did include Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Eleanor Roosevelt.

Throughout the '08 campaign, Barack Obama has given every indication that he is the definition of self-actualized. Take a look at a few of the criteria and why he fits them to a tee -- and while you're at it see if they fit you! If there's a match, please consider running for (or staying in) office. We need more of you!

1. Obama is Perceptive

People with pathologies such as narcissism see the world as a refection of themselves. They are unable to get out of there own subjective experience long enough to see what's really going on. Obama has the ability and intelligence to leave behind narrow perspectives for a more encompassing, accurate view of the world. Obama was spot on in his perception about American's desire for change this election. In terms of the financial crisis, he accurately perceived the mood of the country as more anxious than angry.

2. Obama Resolves Dichotomies

Throughout history, paranoid leaders have sought to divide with their dangerous dichotomies -- us vs. them instead of we; black vs. white instead of shades of grey. Obama himself is a walking dichotomy. He's the embodiment of disparate elements existing as a whole. Resolving conflicts, dealing with ambiguity, and finding the unity in opposites is first nature to him.

3. Obama is Respectful and Humble

Humble people are low on arrogance, but high on true confidence. When you are comfortable in your own shoes, it's easier to compromise, stay strong when you need to, and there's absolutely no reason to disrespect or degrade others.

4. Obama is Problem-Focused

Over and over, Obama has reminded us that this election isn't about him; it's about the practical work of problem-solving. His focus is on the financial crisis, jobs, heath care, and national security. The power of his focus gives Obama the capacity to ward off distractions.

5. Obama Accepts Human Nature

Where does Obama get his sense of calm? A good part of it likely comes from his understanding and acceptance of human nature, including his own nature. When you know who you are and are able to accept yourself and others--the good with the bad--your psyche becomes less of a roller coaster ride. It's easier to stay centered and true to yourself--just as Obama, despite urgings from some (Dowd your perception was so off on this) to be more heated in debates, instead lit a fire with his authenticity.

Comments

[ChicagoSuz]

I agree. He is a study in balance and authenticity. He knows that no one can win unless we all win because we are all connected. He is the living embodiment of my favorite quote:
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
~Ralph Waldo Emerson

[texasben]

Hello from the land of texas,

Great post Ms. Presno, so many voters are now coming to realize that which makes America great is passion. You see his type of work ethic and his humble nature on display in the Blues. You see the fire in Sen. Obama reflected in rock n roll and hip hop. There is also this common bond between Sen Obama and myself. I see it a this blue collar ,passionate male thing. A call, not to glory ,but to work .That I can't help but admire, because I admire that in myself. As Coach K of the Duke blue devils once said about a player ' Christian had this great fire, but I had to make him into a sort of apartment manager. I had to give him a choice, he could either use that fire to heat the entire building, or he could burn it down." The way I see it, same fire, same choice.

Ben

[thepianodiva]

I think you are on to something here, Ms. Presno. It has to be obvious to anyone with eyes to see and ears to hear that Barack Obama is of exceptional character and intelligence, both intellectual and emotional. He is the kind of candidate that comes along once, maybe twice a century.

I so hope that we, the American people, can comprehend the gift we have been given to have someone of this caliber for our next President. A leader and person like Obama helps to inspire and uplift everyone. It would be so tragic and sad for the American people if they acted otherwise.

[Caroline Presno - Huffpost Blogger]

Eloquently put!

[NFS]

I agree with you. We need more people like Sen. Obama in all levels of government, as well as in our whole society.