Self Actualization for teachers
An 8-week Journey of Exploring Your Full Potential
Taught by David Aubrey Berger
For many years I have been intrigued by Maslow’s list of the characteristics of people who are self-actualized—living at their full potential. I remember hearing about this work and wondering why I had not heard about it before. How was it that someone had done the work to find out how to be the best possible human, yet that somehow didn’t make it into our educational system?
Maslow also created a list of seven practices that propel one towards self-actualization. These practices are accessible, practical things we can do to develop ourselves more fully, from wherever we are.
Would you like to improve your capacity for a positive self-view, increased happiness, more social connections, and giving and receiving of support?
This eight-week course explores these seven practices as they pertain to you. We use emotional exploration, mindfulness, discussion, reflection, movement, personal goal-setting, and accountability to enhance our journey.
All are welcome. All you need is some inspiration to make positive changes in your life and a willingness to embark on this journey with a group of folks from our little island.
Course details
Course Schedule:
Throughout this journey, you will:
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Gain a deeper understanding of self-actualization and how it applies to your life
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Develop a stronger, more positive self-view
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Learn how to increase happiness and emotional resilience
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Strengthen your ability to build and nurture meaningful relationships
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Expand your capacity to give and receive support
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Set personal goals and develop practical strategies for growth
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Cultivate daily habits that support a more fulfilling and engaged life
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About David
With over 30 years of experience in education and leadership development, David has dedicated himself to innovative and transformative learning experiences. He began his journey in education while completing a Master’s degree in Environmental Philosophy at York University, where he taught first- and second-year courses. During this time, he worked alongside a team of critical pedagogy mentors, refining his facilitation and teaching approach.
David founded and was the principal of AVRO Academy, a private high school in Toronto specializing in individualized and environmental education. Under his leadership, AVRO extended its programs internationally to Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Tangier, Morocco.
Beyond academia, David has been deeply involved in the arts and community engagement, running an annual arts festival Spiritfest for nearly two decades. He has taught leadership courses at colleges and for organizations such as Peak Potentials. The National Post called him "A Modern Day Socrates" after the publication of his book The Power of the Circle. David moved to Denman with his wife Shara in 2023 and is honoured to be a member of this community.
In this workshop series
we will cover
