Final answer:
Maslow's hierarchy of needs refers to self-actualization as the stage where individuals reach their full potential. Later, Maslow introduced self-transcendence as an additional level, representing the pursuit of purpose beyond one's self-interests.
Step-by-step explanation:
When discussing Maslow's hierarchy of needs and reaching one's potential, we refer to the concept of self-actualization. According to Abraham Maslow's theory, individuals must satisfy physiological needs, such as food and shelter, before progressing to higher-level needs like safety, love and belonging, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization. At the self-actualization level, individuals achieve their fullest potential and engage in activities that lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Maslow later proposed a level beyond self-actualization known as self-transcendence, which emphasizes purpose and meaning beyond oneself, sometimes leading to acts that benefit wider society at the expense of personal needs.