“A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself.”
- April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970
- American
- Psychologist, Creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Humanistic Psychology Pioneer
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Quote
“A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write, if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Maslow articulates the essence of self-actualization—the deep psychological need to fulfill one’s unique talents and calling. He emphasizes that inner peace comes not from external success or conformity, but from honoring and expressing one’s true nature. Just as a musician is compelled to create music, individuals are driven by their specific gifts and passions, and denying these drives leads to inner conflict, frustration, or a sense of incompleteness.
This idea is central to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, where self-actualization occupies the highest level. Unlike basic needs such as food or safety, self-actualization is about realizing one’s full potential, and it varies from person to person. Maslow argued that ignoring these personal imperatives not only stunts growth but also causes emotional dissonance. True well-being, he believed, comes from living authentically, aligning action with one’s deeper identity and purpose.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the importance of creative expression, vocation, and personal fulfillment in mental health. Whether it’s an entrepreneur building a vision, a parent nurturing a child, or a scientist pursuing discovery, people find meaning when their actions reflect who they truly are. Maslow’s message is clear and enduring: peace of mind is not a luxury, but the result of living in harmony with one’s own potential.
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