ABSTRACT
Chapter Four, “Finding fulfilment”, focuses on the personal effects that can result from contributing to activism. Even once a person has articulated why they are motivated to contribute, they may still feel a sense of inadequacy. They may feel like an insignificant imposter and become deflated and depleted. However, this chapter will argue that many of these reactions can become useful reflective tools for identifying and applying efforts in a thoughtful and targeted way. Developing self-awareness about the effects that activism has on your sense of identity can help activists sustainably contribute in constructive and optimistic ways. Reflecting upon our emotional reactions to activism may help us determine where we should be placing our efforts and where we need to develop and grow on a personal level. Activism can help us find a path towards self-actualisation and work toward being the best version of ourselves. At the very least, social benefits can arise from working with others towards a common goal. The chapter concludes with some reflective questions for developing self-awareness and identifying a path towards the liberating state of self-actualisation.
