The purpose of this article was to explore how self-concept functions in connection to motivation and well-being in artists. Specifically, we looked for such people who follow the path of selfactualization. In this article, we introduce unique nomothetic data supporting-as we argue-the existence of Rogerian self-concept in a group of interpretive artists (dancers, musicians, and singers). In a larger study focused on motivation and well-being in artists (n = 132), using k-means cluster analysis, we found a small subgroup of artists (11%) characterized by high well-being, motivation, and strength of volition accompanied by low self-concept clarity, whereas in a much larger group, and according to published results, self-concept clarity corresponds with well-being and adaptive functioning. As we argue, there are two ways of optimal psychological functioning in artists: one based on clear self-concept and another on conceptually unclear but phenomenologically obvious self-concept-Rogerian-and both connected with high well-being, motivation, and strength of volition. According to Rogers' phenomenological theory, self-concept is by definition flexible, which implies that low self-concept clarity is a result of the process of experience. Interpretive artists from a given group could identify themselves with their self-actualizing artistic activity and experience their selves in terms of an ongoing process; thus, they did not formulate a stable and coherent self-concept. Our reasoning is based on questionnaire data. Thus, further research should combine qualitative and quantitative data on artists' psychological functioning.
The current culture emphasizes effectiveness and happiness. In this article, we discuss whether it is possible to function optimally in the professional sphere without existential reflection. As we argue, the need for a meaning of life and giving sense to our activity is fundamental. Universal human needs, optimal functioning models, and developmental patterns throughout life support our perspective. The challenges and problems of midlife transition have a common denominator -personalized awareness of life's finiteness and fear of death. During midlife, people need philosophical reflection on values basic for the meaning of life. Referring to Søren Kierkegaard, culture promotes fixation on the aesthetic stage, while personality development leads to the ethical and religious stage. It means profound transformation, striving for internal integration, and stabilizing the person's functioning on higher values. Kierkegaard's philosophical anthropology and existential psychology promote the pattern of conscious, intentional life, and personal growth.
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