Introduction
The quest for meaning in life is a perennial concern that has traversed the boundaries of time and culture. In my pursuit of understanding, I anchor my philosophy of life on the principle of self-actualization—an intrinsic drive to realize one’s full potential and to become the most that one can be. This philosophy resonates with the existentialist tenets, particularly those expounded by the Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard. My thesis, therefore, is that life’s ultimate purpose is the continuous process of self-actualization, guided by personal responsibility and authentic choice, as advocated by existentialist philosophy.
Background
Søren Kierkegaard was a Danish philosopher, theologian, poet, social critic, and religious author who is widely regarded as the first existentialist philosopher. He wrote critical texts on organized religion, Christendom, morality, ethics, psychology, and the philosophy of religion, displaying a fondness for metaphor, irony, and parables. Much of his philosophical work deals with the issues of how one lives as a “single individual,” giving priority to concrete human reality over abstract thinking and highlighting the importance of personal choice and commitment (Fremstedal, 2023).
Philosophy
Life Meaning
Kierkegaard believed that a meaningful life is not one that is simply handed to us or determined by external factors but rather one that is actively created by the individual. He argued that individuals must choose their own path without the assurance of whether those choices are right or wrong. This emphasis on personal choice leads to a sense of existential responsibility, where one is accountable for one’s actions and the meaning one finds in life.
Subjective Truth
One of Kierkegaard’s central ideas is the notion of ‘subjective truth.’ He posited that truth is not merely an objective reality to be discovered but is also a subjective experience that involves the individual’s personal perspective and commitment. For Kierkegaard, what matters most is not the objective truth of ideas but how these ideas are lived and integrated into one’s life.
Single Individual’s Living
Furthermore, Kierkegaard’s concept of living as a “single individual” directly challenges the idea of finding meaning through conformity to societal norms or collective identities. He believed that true self-awareness comes from introspection and a deep engagement with one’s own existence rather than through the crowd or the general public. This individualistic approach is central to existentialist thought, which emphasizes the individual’s unique position as a self-determining agent responsible for the authenticity of their own existence.
Leap of Faith
Kierkegaard’s work often explores the theme of “the leap of faith,” the idea that certain life choices and commitments—especially those concerning one’s fundamental beliefs and values—require a leap into the unknown since they cannot be fully justified by rationality alone. This leap is necessary to overcome what he calls “the despair of the aesthetic,” which is a state of aimless wandering and lack of meaningful direction.
Personal Opinion on Philosophy
Self-actualization, in my view, is not a finite end but a journey marked by the authentic choices we make and the responsibilities we embrace. It’s about striving to become better, not just in a moral or ethical sense, but in the mastery of one’s talents, the pursuit of one’s interests, and the cultivation of one’s character. This echoes Kierkegaard’s concept of “becoming a self,” which is an individual’s task of becoming who they truly are, as opposed to conforming to societal expectations or external pressures.
In my life, this philosophy has been a driving force. Personal experiences have taught me that happiness and fulfillment come from aligning with one’s core values and pursuing goals that reflect true personal desires. Whether facing career choices, educational paths, or interpersonal relationships, I have endeavored to make decisions that are reflective of my true self, not just reactions to external circumstances.
Kierkegaard believed that individuals face a “crowd” that can distract from or even suppress one’s true self. The “crowd” is symbolic of societal norms and the pressure to conform. My philosophy of life rejects the undifferentiated life of the crowd, instead of embracing the existential challenge to stand as an individual. This stance has not been without its difficulties. Like my hypothetical daughter in the introductory scenario, I’ve grappled with the tension between passion and reason, the subjective and the objective.
To mitigate this tension, I draw upon Kierkegaard’s assertion that we must reflect critically on our lives. This reflection is not a detached, purely intellectual exercise but a passionate undertaking that involves our deepest emotions and desires. It is through this process that I have learned to temper my passions with critical thought, ensuring that the paths I choose contribute to my growth as an individual.
Conclusion
In synthesizing Kierkegaard’s existentialism with my life experiences, my philosophy of life is affirmed and refined. I have come to understand that self-actualization is not just about following passions blindly but about making informed choices that are true to oneself. This existential journey has taught me the value of introspection, the courage to stand alone, and the importance of creating a life narrative that is authentically mine.
Through this analysis, I have not only reaffirmed my belief in the importance of self-actualization but also gained a deeper appreciation for the existential challenges that accompany this pursuit. As I move forward, I carry with me the insights of existential thought—a reminder of the continuous task of becoming, the importance of personal responsibility, and the transformative power of authentic living.
Reference
Fremstedal, R. (2023). Kierkegaard on self, ethics, and religion: Purity or Despair. Cambridge University Press.