When psychologist Abraham Maslow studied self-actualised individuals, it led him to the idea that such ‘stand-out’ individuals are above the pack, or a cut above the rest. And, that they are adept and skilful in surmounting numerous challenges of life and accomplishing their maximum potential through peak experiences. In the process, Maslow discovered certain attributes that also made them ‘hit it off well’ in every aspect of life, despite the usual human pitfalls, through self-actualisation.
Self-actualisation encompasses a veritable sequence of attributes—right from creativity, courage, humour and calmness to conviction—aside from other quirks. They are not just expressions of strength; they play the role of ‘shock-absorbers’ for that inevitable storm, or ups and downs, in one’s life, or career. In contemporary thought, this element has a new expression, ‘robust personality.’ You’d call it the extension of Maslow’s model—one that reflects qualities, such as, ‘to venture,’ persevere and manage.
The Quiet-Robust Archetype
Waheeda Rehman—now 83, but as young-old as ever—exemplifies such attributes in a manner born. She is the quiet-robust archetype of what mind scientists articulate a majority of us use, but a tiny part—about 3-4 per cent—of our inherent talents. Not our full, or actual, potential. Because, when we use them, at times, we not only surprise others, but also ourselves. Waheeda is an outstanding example of such a profound, well-organised, self-actualised, intensity-focused actress who has worked endlessly on her true, god-gifted potential, and taken art and acting to a new level—her level, or benchmark, that none can replicate. She has never dropped her focus. She’s always there, unswervingly, with her passion for cinema—even at the ‘twilight’ of her remarkable career.
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