Confidence Quote by Abraham Harold Maslow
““Every human being has both sets of forces within him. One set clings to safety and defensiveness out of fear, tending to regress backward, hanging on to the past, afraid to grow away from the primitive communication with the mother’s uterus and breast, afraid to take chances, afraid to jeopardize what he already has, afraid of independence, freedom and separateness. The other set of forces impels him forward toward wholeness of Self and uniqueness of Self, toward full functioning of all his capacities, toward confidence in the face of the external world at the same time that he can accept his deepest, real, unconscious Self.””
About This Quote
Humans contain opposing drives: one seeks safety and familiarity, the other pushes toward growth, self‑actualization, and embracing the unconscious.
In simple terms: Two inner forces: safety versus growth.
Key Takeaway
Balance fear with courage to develop.
Themes
psychology
self‑development
growth
Mood
introspective
motivational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- career change
- creative projects
- relationship building
- personal therapy
Key Concepts
fear
self‑actualization
unconscious
confidence
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears hold you back?
- How can you nurture your forward‑moving forces?
A Different Perspective
The growth drive can be blocked by trauma or social pressure.
