I am Yoshida, president of Yamada Shusei Ltd., a professional apparel garment repair group in Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture.
In this issue, we will discuss three types of "approval" that can lead to improved job performance.
1) Desire for self-approval
The "need for self-approval" is the recognition of one's own worth by oneself. When the "need for self-approval" is satisfied, self-confidence and satisfaction increase, stress and anxiety decrease, and we can continue to work toward our own goals without being influenced by others' evaluations. Doing "a lot" leads to the fulfillment of the "need for self-approval," as it enhances one's abilities and skills.
2) Desire for self-actualization
Self-actualization is the desire to become what one ideally wants to be. When the "need for self-actualization" is satisfied, a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment is heightened, and motivation and drive to work increase. It also allows us to respond flexibly to new challenges and changes without fear. Ingenuity" leads to creativity and originality in one's work, which in turn satisfies the "need for self-actualization.
3) Desire for approval from others
The need for approval from others is the desire to be recognized by others. When this need is satisfied, we gain respect and trust, interpersonal relationships and communication become smoother, and we can easily accept the opinions and feedback of those around us, leading to improvement and growth. ”Imitating others who are doing well" leads to finding models and role models in one's own work, which in turn satisfies the "need for others' approval.”
Thus, "doing a lot," "being creative," and "imitating others who are doing well" satisfy each of the three types of "approval": self-approval, self-actualization, and approval of others. These approval needs influence each other, and when satisfied in balance, they lead not only to "improved performance" but also to "a greater sense of fulfillment in life.
