Engaging transcendent actualisation through occupational intelligence

Abstract

This article builds on a previous publication where I developed the concept of occupational intelligence in accord with the humanistic theory of self‐actualisation. In this article I explore how developments within humanistic psychology eventually led to the emergence of transpersonal psychology, which created a renewed impetus for exploring the parameters of human potential from self‐actualisation to self‐transcendence. I argue that the underlying humanistic roots of occupational science could be developed to include a transpersonal perspective, thereby providing a more expansive view of occupational potential. To illustrate the value of that perspective, a case vignette of occupation leading to transformation in a young man's ways of knowing, being, and doing is provided. I propose that a greater connection between people's transpersonal experiences and their engagement in human occupations could be facilitated through the use of occupational intelligence, which could make a significant contribution to the process known as transcendent actualisation.