As humans evolve, they go through a unique path of self-actualization. Everyone has the potential to rise to their highest potential with intentional and thoughtful approaches to their personal growth. There is no correlation between self-actualization and gender, age, race, ability, or income level; instead, the mindset a person develops determines how they actualize being human first.

Being human first involves prioritizing individuals' well-being and creating an environment where people feel valued and supported.

Self-actualization is understood as completing its features instead of a collection of attributes. An individual who possesses creative energy, for instance, which is a quality of self-actualization, might not yet be entirely self-actualized. Self-actualization is a continuous process, just as humans have been evolving.

According to some professionals, self-actualization is less about achieving objectives like success, perfection, or pleasure and more about how receptive an individual is to health and growth. It is more about personal and leadership development.

Anyone on the path to self-actualization will be the best version of themselves. They engage, lead, and be in service of others and positively impact their lives. So, if you've started living your life with authenticity and purpose, you're heading toward the right path.

Who is an Evolving Human?

An evolving human is a person who's working toward personal growth, which is first through self-actualization. As they progress, they become more confident and resilient to affect their environment positively. 

Self-actualization may be a challenging objective because it calls for a strong sense of direction and identity and the necessity of addressing one's personal needs and the needs of others. Individuals who attain self-actualization, however, might still have access to this level since they have acquired the essential abilities to find fulfillment.

What does it mean to be Human First in your organization?

Being human first in your organization involves fostering a supportive environment where employees can be open and seek assistance if a professional or personal matter hinders their ability to complete their job duties. Additionally, it entails preserving a society where the reality of human nature—that we struggle and evolve and, most importantly, yearn for connections with those around us—is acknowledged.

Those are simple definitions of being human first in organizations. However, find below some ways business owners can boost their leadership skills as evolving humans:

Take care of the whole person.

With this "Whole Person Model," businesses and employees can better understand the attitudes, values, and abilities necessary for success and efficiency, such as growth mentality, resilience, and optimism.

This understanding gives a more precise and comprehensive image of a person's assets and potential growth areas. Additionally, it's a holistic strategy in which you guide people by considering everything that occurs at work and beyond.

Become the heartbeat of your organization.

What must take place to establish the thriving workplace atmosphere you desire in the long run? Asking difficult questions, challenging the existing culture without upsetting others (employees), and putting your ego aside are all necessary to align culture with your growth strategy.

Leaders can enforce organizational values by fostering employee growth and development through goal-setting, potential, and rewards. Encourage staff advancement through regular one-on-one meetings and continuous two-way feedback from employees. Employees' trust in their leader grows when there is an open dialogue about their job.

Get the organization in the mindset of ongoing change

Continual business model evolution and the steady touch of leaders who understand how to combine processes with individuals are essential for continuous organizational development. To succeed, leaders must manage change to strengthen the bond between their companies, the people they employ, and the clients they serve.

Practical leaders act and model the change they want to see. They create an atmosphere that encourages a growth mentality coupled with discernible behavioral changes. Above all, they build individuals up to consistently focus on becoming the best versions of themselves.

Be where your people are

Organizing a group of individuals from various cultural backgrounds who operate in multiple shifts and time zones can be challenging. But thanks to technology, many methods exist to monitor your teams in different locations, onsite or remotely.

Keep tabs on your juniors without controlling them excessively. Ensure you're engaging them through platforms they're using by tracking their growth through conferences and goals.

Bottom Line

Evolving humans towards self-actualization practice daily for personal growth, which influences their leadership development goals, which in turn helps others around them become the best version of themselves.