Self-Actualization

Self-Actualization: Becoming Your Best Self

Lesson Summary

In this lesson, students will explore the concept of self-actualization—becoming the best version of themselves. Through guided reflection, writing, and illustration, they will envision their future selves: how they look, act, and live. This project invites students to reflect on personal values, goals, and identity, encouraging them to take mindful steps toward who they hope to become.

Lesson Objectives

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

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

At the top of Maslow’s pyramid is self-actualization—reaching your fullest potential. But to get there, 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.”

Class Discussion

"You are the artist of your own life. Who are you creating?"

People don’t usually set out to be cruel or lost. Life simply gets busy and distracting.
If we don’t intentionally shape who we are, the world might shape us in ways we don’t like.
That’s why this lesson isn’t just about art—it’s about clarity, confidence, and direction.

Journal Reflection

Psychological Reflection

What makes you feel truly alive?
When do you feel proud—without needing anyone’s approval?
Who do you want to become? What values will guide you?
What do you care about more than being popular or liked?
What do you do just because it feels meaningful, not for rewards?
Who inspires you to grow—and why?
What’s one talent you’d regret not developing?
When have you stayed true to yourself, even when it was hard?
How do you know when you’re being your real self?
What would you do differently if you weren’t afraid of failing?

Physical Reflection

What do you like most about your appearance—and why?
In what ways do you take care of your body with respect and kindness?
How does your style express your mood or personality?
How much of your appearance is shaped by trends vs. your true self?
Have you ever changed your look for someone else? Did it feel right?
How would you describe your unique physical features in a positive light?
When do you feel most comfortable in your own skin?
What do you hope people see and feel when they look at you?

Steps in Drawing the Human Figure

These steps will guide you through creating a well-proportioned and detailed 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.
Different Poses: Experiment by drawing the figure in various poses to understand movement and flexibility.

Materials Needed

Sketchbook
Pencil & eraser
Colored pencils, markers, or crayons
Mirrors (for self-observation)
Journals or notebooks (for writing reflections)

Creative Process

Reflect & Write
- List qualities you admire or hope to develop (e.g., confident, kind, creative).
- Write down career or lifestyle goals, hobbies, and your vision of a happy life.
Rough Sketches
Create small concept sketches of your “future self.” Consider:
- Hairstyle, clothing, posture, mood
- Occupation or environment (e.g., a stage, studio, office, classroom)
Final Pencil Drawing
- Use a mirror or photo for reference
- Sketch your future self with attention to anatomy and proportions
- Show your personality through expression, fashion, and pose
Inking & Coloring
- Outline with fine liners or markers
- Color with care, using tones that reflect your personality or mood
- Add details like a background, setting, or symbolic objects
Written Description
Write a paragraph beside your artwork:
- Who is this person?
- What traits or values do they embody?
- What steps will you take to become this version of yourself?
Presentation & Reflection
- Share your illustration and writing with the class (optional)
- Discuss what you discovered about yourself and your future vision

Terminology

Self-Actualization: Becoming the best version of yourself by realizing your full potential

Introspection: Looking inward to understand your thoughts and emotions

Visual Representation: Communicating ideas or identity through images

Human Anatomy: Understanding the structure of the human body to draw it accurately

Gesture Drawing: Quick sketches that capture movement and emotion

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Self-Actualization