#findingmeaning

Life throws us into a kaleidoscope of challenges, paradoxes, and questions. From ancient thinkers to modern philosophers, humanity has tried to craft paths through this maze of existence. Whether you’re someone who laughs at the absurd, seeks higher meaning, or builds resilience in the face of chaos, one thing is clear: philosophy offers us tools to navigate the world. The question is—which one do you follow?

Absurdism: Dancing with the Chaos

Absurdism is the wild child of philosophy, championed by Albert Camus. It’s about accepting the universe’s lack of inherent meaning while embracing life with gusto. Imagine standing at the edge of the void and saying, “Sure, nothing matters, but I’m here for the ride!” This philosophy celebrates rebellion against despair and finding joy in the small, fleeting moments.

Absurdism resonates with those who thrive on irony, contradiction, and humor. If you’ve ever laughed at life’s unpredictability or found peace in its chaos, you may already be living absurdly.

Existentialism: Writing Your Own Script

Existentialism invites us to take the pen and write our own story. Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard argued that while the world might not provide meaning, we can. It’s all about freedom, choice, and responsibility.

Do you believe in forging your own path, even if it’s difficult? Existentialism might appeal to your inner adventurer, urging you to seek authenticity and purpose in a world that refuses to hand them to you.

Stoicism: Mastering the Inner World

Stoicism is the philosophy of calm within the storm. Ancient figures like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca preached that while we can’t control external events, we can control our reactions. By focusing on what’s within our power, we cultivate inner peace and resilience.

If you value discipline, logic, and detachment from the chaos of emotions, Stoicism might be your guiding light. It’s the philosophy for those who find strength in steadying their mind against life’s tempests.

Utilitarianism: The Greater Good

Utilitarianism asks: What brings the most happiness to the most people? Championed by Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill, it’s the philosophy of practical ethics. If you value results over intentions and prioritize societal welfare, this could be your creed.

Nihilism: Rejecting the Script

For the Nihilist, nothing holds inherent value—not morality, not life, not meaning. It’s often seen as dark and pessimistic, but at its heart, Nihilism challenges us to strip away illusions and confront the truth.

Do you find meaninglessness liberating? If so, Nihilism could be your framework for understanding existence—or rejecting it entirely.

Idealism: The Pursuit of Perfection

Idealism looks to the stars. This philosophy emphasizes ideas, consciousness, and the potential for perfection. Thinkers like Plato believed the material world is just a shadow of the true, ideal reality.

Do you dream of higher truths, art, or unshakable principles? Idealism might align with your tendency to see potential beyond what’s immediately visible.

So, What About You?

Each philosophy offers its own lens on life. Some embrace the chaos, others impose structure. Some find solace in detachment, others in engagement. The beauty of these perspectives is that none are truly exclusive; life’s too complex for just one set of rules.

But here’s the question:

Which philosophy guides you the most?

Are you an Absurdist who dances with chaos? A Stoic who thrives on resilience? Or perhaps an Existentialist forging meaning in the void?

Inspired by Dylan Thomas’ “Do not go gentle into that good night”Personal adaptation of Dembe Zuma’s Final Monologue

It’s wild how his words dig so deep into me, right into the parts of my heart I don’t often let anyone see. I think about love a lot when I read him—about the way it lifts you up, and also how it can break you. And somehow, he makes that pain feel beautiful, like it’s part of something bigger, something I can’t quite grasp but still feel in my chest. It’s not just the good parts of life that he talks about; it’s the hard, complicated stuff too. The heartbreak, the confusion, the questions that never really get answered. But it’s all okay, he says, because we’re human, and we’re meant to feel it all.

There’s something calming about reading Gibran, like I’m not alone in feeling like I don’t have it all figured out. His words comfort me in ways I can’t quite explain, like they understand me even when I can’t find the right words for what’s going on inside. It’s as if he’s talking directly to the parts of me that are afraid to speak, afraid to show the cracks.

₊˚ෆ have you ever stopped to ask yourself, “who am i, really?” and no, not the version you show the world, but the person deep down inside, beyond the labels you’ve accumulated over the years…

the truth is:

labels—the ones given by society, family, or even yourself—might feel comforting. but over time, they become walls that box in your potential and authenticity. you need to break free!!

HERE’S HOW TO BREAK FREE AND REDISCOVER YOUR TRUE SELF:

1. understand the power and limitations of labels

• labels like “the smart one” or “the quiet one” may give us identity, but they can also confine us.

• ask yourself: what labels have i been given? how have they shaped me?

reflection prompt:

“which labels serve me, and which ones do i need to let go of?”

2. discover who you are beyond your roles

• you’re not just a sibling, partner, professional, etc.

• who are you when you’re alone, when you’re not performing for anyone else?

• example: take moments of solitude—walking in nature or journaling—to reconnect with your unfiltered self.

ask yourself:

“when was the last time i felt like my most authentic self?”

3. identify your core values

• beyond labels and roles, your values are your compass.

• mine are health, personal growth, and love—what are yours?

• aligning your actions with your values leads to a life of authenticity and joy.

reflect:

“what three values matter most to me? how can i live in alignment with them today?”

4. detach your worth from achievements

• you are more than your career, successes, or material accomplishments.

• true worth comes from who you are, not what you do.

mantra to repeat:

“my worth is inherent. i am enough just as i am.”

5. recognize and reframe your inner dialogue

• the voice in your head is not you—it’s a reflection of societal pressures and past influences.

• quote to remember: “you are not the voice of the mind. you are the one who hears it.” - Michael Singer

challenge yourself:

what thoughts no longer serve me? how can i replace them with empowering beliefs?

♡ the journey to your true self ♡

peeling away labels is not easy, but it’s worth it. You are a dynamic, evolving being—not defined by one role, label, or achievement.

♡ take a moment today to reflect, reconnect, and rediscover.

• journal prompt: what labels have i outgrown?

• action step: spend 10 reflective minutes today asking, “who am i when no one is watching?”

your journey starts now ⋆⁺₊⋆

Are you seeking more meaning and happiness in your everyday life? In "Reflections About Life: Living a Life of Joy and Purpose," discover the keys to finding true joy and living with intention. Through thought-provoking insights and practical wisdom, this inspiring book helps you reflect on your journey and empowers you to align your life with purpose. 🌿🌟✨