In this lesson, students will explore the concept of self-actualization—becoming the best version of themselves. Through guided reflection, writing, and illustration, students will envision their future selves: how they look, act, and live. This project encourages reflection on personal values, goals, and identity, while inviting students to take mindful steps toward who they hope to become.
Reflect on personal strengths, dreams, and values
Imagine and illustrate an ideal future self
Learn basic human figure drawing and proportions
Express identity through visual and written storytelling
At the top of Maslow’s pyramid is self-actualization—reaching your fullest potential. To move toward this, we need a clear vision of who we want to be.
“Just as architects need a blueprint, we need a vision to build the person we want to become.”
People rarely choose to be lost or unkind—life simply becomes busy and distracting.
If we don’t intentionally shape who we are, the world may shape us in ways we don’t want.
This lesson isn’t just about art—it’s about clarity, confidence, and direction.
What makes you feel truly alive?
When do you feel proud—without needing approval?
Who do you want to become, and what values will guide you?
What do you care about more than popularity or being liked?
What do you do because it feels meaningful, not because of rewards?
Who inspires you to grow—and why?
What talent would you regret not developing?
When have you stayed true to yourself, even when it was difficult?
How do you know when you are being your real self?
What would you do differently if you weren’t afraid of failing?
What do you like most about your appearance, and why?
How do you care for your body with respect and kindness?
How does your style express your personality or mood?
How much of your appearance is shaped by trends versus your true self?
Have you ever changed your look for someone else? Did it feel right?
How can you describe your physical features in a positive way?
When do you feel most comfortable in your own skin?
What do you hope people see or feel when they look at you?
These steps will guide you in creating a balanced and expressive human figure.
Torso: Start with the largest part of the figure, the torso. This will serve as the foundation for the rest of the body.
Limbs and Head: Move on to sketching the legs, arms, and head. Focus on the overall shape and position.
Proportions: While individual proportions can vary, aim for general similarities. Use your judgment to ensure balanced proportions for your figure.
Hands and Feet: Begin with basic shapes for hands and feet, then refine them by adding fingers and other details.
Facial Features: Add facial features such as the eyes, nose, mouth, and ears to give your figure character.
Sketchbook
Pencil & Eraser
Colored Pencils, Markers, or Crayons
Mirrors (for self-observation)
Journals or Notebooks
List qualities you admire or want to develop (e.g., confident, kind, creative).
Write about career goals, lifestyle dreams, hobbies, and your vision of a meaningful life.
Create small concept sketches of your “future self.” Consider:
Hairstyle, clothing, posture, mood
Occupation or environment (stage, studio, office, classroom, etc.)
Use a mirror or photo reference
Focus on anatomy and proportion
Show personality through expression, pose, and clothing
Outline with fine liners or markers
Color thoughtfully using tones that reflect mood or identity
Add symbolic objects or a meaningful background
Write a paragraph next to your artwork:
Who is this person?
What values and traits do they embody?
What steps will you take to become this version of yourself?
Share your artwork and writing with the class (optional)
Discuss what you learned about yourself and your future direction
Self-Actualization – Becoming the best version of yourself by realizing your full potential
Introspection – Looking inward to understand thoughts and emotions
Visual Representation – Communicating ideas or identity through images
Human Anatomy – Understanding body structure to draw accurately
Gesture Drawing – Quick sketches that capture movement and emotion