Capacity Quote by Abraham Maslow
“People with intelligence must use their intelligence, people with eyes must use their eyes, people with the capacity to love have the impulse to love and the need to love in order to feel healthy. Capacities clamor to be used, and cease in their clamor only when they are used sufficiently. That is to say, capacities are needs, and therefore are intrinsic values as well.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Motivation and Personality, Abraham Maslow, 1954
Human capacities like intelligence, sight, and love are inherent needs that must be exercised to achieve psychological health
In simple terms: Our abilities require use to feel fulfilled
Key Takeaway
Use your gifts regularly for wellbeing
Themes
psychology
self‑actualization
well‑being
Mood
reflective
inspirational
practical
Type
self‑help
psychological
motivational
When to use this quote
- education
- therapy
- personal development
- workplace training
- creative pursuits
Key Concepts
needs theory
intrinsic motivation
human potential
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance using abilities with rest?
- What capacities feel under‑used in your life?
A Different Perspective
People may feel pressured to over‑use capacities, leading to burnout
