In this groundbreaking book, Scott Barry Kaufman updates Maslow's hierarchy of needs by integrating Maslow's unfinished theory of transcendence with the latest research on attachment, connection, creativity, love, and purpose. Kaufman's new hierarchy of needs serves as a roadmap for finding purpose and fulfillment by becoming the best version of oneself, rather than striving for money, success, or happiness. The book emphasizes the importance of merging self-development with a connection to the world, highlighting that self-actualization requires both individual growth and a deep integration with others. It includes never-before-published insights, new research findings, and exercises to help readers gain insight into their unique personality and nurture a deeper connection with their highest potential and humanity.
In 'Toward a Psychology of Being', Abraham Maslow delves into human potential and self-actualization, advocating for a holistic approach to psychology that emphasizes growth and fulfillment. The book critiques traditional psychology's focus on pathology and instead explores the traits of healthy, self-actualizing individuals. Maslow's work has significantly influenced modern psychology and personal development.
In this book, Angela Duckworth presents a compelling argument that success is driven more by grit, a fusion of relentless passion and perseverance, than by talent. She explains what grit is, how to identify and develop it, and how it can be grown through stages such as developing interests, consistent practice, finding a pro-social purpose, and cultivating optimism. The book is structured in three parts: explaining what grit is and why it matters, how to grow grit from the inside out, and how to grow grit from the outside in, targeting parents, coaches, teachers, and organizational leaders. Duckworth supports her arguments with personal stories, historical insights, and interviews with high achievers from various fields.
In this week’s episode, Scott Barry Kaufman talks about his new book, “Transcend: The New Science of Self Actualization” in which he unearths some of Dr. Abraham Maslow’s unfinished work. He shares common misconceptions on the hierarchy of needs, how workplaces can support collective actualization, and why it is important to stay positive at this time of COVID 19—even amidst uncertainty or suffering. Scott brings in familiar psychology research to create a case for how leaders can be more enlightened in their approaches.
Connect with Dr. Scott Kaufman:
You’ll Learn:
- [03:41] - Scott explains Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory and why there is a misconception in using the pyramid metaphor.
- [07:09] - Scott explains how we can use the ideas and resources in his book at a time of global pandemic.
- [12:52] - Scott explains how values play a part in creating transcendent workers and workplaces.
- [17:59] - Scott shares how workplaces can help team members create more moments for integration and actualization.
- [22:35] - Scott enters the lightning round.
Your Resources:
Thanks for listening!
Thanks so much for joining me again this week. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it using the social media buttons you see at the bottom of this post.
Please leave an honest review of the Making Positive Psychology Work Podcast on iTunes. Ratings and reviews are extremely helpful and greatly appreciated. They do matter in the rankings of the show, and I read each and every one of them. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show on iTunes to get automatic updates. It’s free!
You can also listen to all the episodes of Making Positive Psychology Work streamed directly to your smartphone or iPad through stitcher. No need for downloading or syncing.
Until next time, take care! Thank you, Scott!
Making Positive Psychology Work 
