“One’s only rival is one’s own potentialities. One’s only failure is failing to live up to one’s own possibilities. In this sense, every man can be a king, and must therefore be treated like a king.”
- April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970
- American
- Psychologist, Creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Humanistic Psychology Pioneer
table of contents
Quote
“One’s only rival is one’s own potentialities. One’s only failure is failing to live up to one’s own possibilities. In this sense, every man can be a king, and must therefore be treated like a king.”
Explanation
This quote by Abraham Maslow expresses a powerful and deeply egalitarian vision of human nature. He argues that the true measure of success or failure lies not in comparison with others, but in relation to one’s own unique potential. Each person, according to Maslow, has individual capabilities and aspirations, and the only real defeat is to fall short of them. By focusing on internal standards rather than external competition, he reframes ambition as a personal and moral responsibility rather than a social contest.
This principle is central to Maslow’s concept of self-actualization, where fulfillment comes from becoming what one is capable of being. The phrase “every man can be a king” underscores his belief in the dignity and value of every individual, regardless of status or background. If each person harbors within them a unique potential for excellence, then they deserve to be treated with respect, compassion, and recognition—not because of what they have achieved externally, but because of what they might become.
In modern life, this quote offers a meaningful alternative to the pervasive culture of comparison, competition, and superficial success metrics. It invites educators, leaders, and peers to honor the intrinsic worth of individuals, and to support others not by demanding conformity, but by helping them realize their own paths. Maslow’s vision calls for a society built on mutual respect and inner growth, where each person is treated as if they hold a crown of possibility.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
