A Guide to Existential Contemplation in the Digital Age
Staring into the abyss is a time-honored tradition for those of us who can’t help but ponder the big questions: Why are we here? What is the purpose of life? Should I switch to oat milk? It’s an existential buffet where the main dish is uncertainty, and the dessert is, well, more uncertainty. But in today’s digital age, how do we dive into the depths of our souls while still getting notifications that our Amazon delivery is en route?
Let’s explore how you can embrace the vast unknown and your modern conveniences. Because the abyss is terrifying enough without buffering.
Step 1: Schedule Your Abyss Time
Yes, even existential dread needs a time slot. Set aside specific moments to reflect on the meaning of life. Maybe it’s 15 minutes in the morning with your coffee or late at night when the existential thoughts are just itching to escape.
But keep it intentional. Doom-scrolling Twitter doesn’t count as staring into the abyss—it’s just staring into chaos.
Step 2: Stay Connected, But Not Distracted
Contemplating existence doesn’t mean renouncing your phone, but maybe you can set it aside long enough to look at the stars. Download a meditation app or jot your thoughts in a digital journal. The goal is to use technology, not be used by it.
And hey, if you need to Google “existential dread symptoms,” no judgment. Just don’t let that search spiral into a rabbit hole of Reddit forums debating whether free will exists.
Step 3: Find Your Abyss Playlist
The abyss pairs beautifully with a soundtrack. Curate a playlist that makes you feel inspired, introspective, or just a little rebellious. Classical music, instrumental soundscapes, or even moody indie ballads can help you vibe with the infinite.
Consider it your auditory Wi-Fi to the soul.
Step 4: Remember the Wi-Fi Signal Is a Metaphor
Spoiler alert: the abyss is less about losing your internet connection and more about grounding yourself in what matters. Take moments to unplug, metaphorically and literally. Can you face life’s big questions without a distraction?
And if not, at least put your phone on silent. You don’t need a Slack notification pulling you out of your reverie about mortality.
Step 5: Laugh at the Abyss
The abyss doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. You’re not alone in your existential spiral—plenty of philosophers, poets, and procrastinating intellectuals have been there before. If Nietzsche can laugh at life’s absurdities, so can you.
Find humor in the small things. Like the fact that we’re hurtling through space at 67,000 mph and still argue over pineapple on pizza.
Step 6: Take Action (Even Small Ones)
Existential contemplation can be paralyzing. The trick is not to let it be. Yes, you’re just a speck in the universe, but you’re also your speck. Make it count. Journal your thoughts, start a passion project, or finally sign up for that pottery class you’ve been stalking online.
Building the life of your dreams starts with a single, Wi-Fi-connected step.
Step 7: Let the Abyss Inspire, Not Consume
The abyss has its uses—it can spark creativity, deepen empathy, and push you to live more authentically. But don’t let it become a black hole that sucks away your joy. Balance the deep questions with the lighthearted ones:
- What’s the meaning of life?
- What’s for lunch?
Final Thought: The Abyss Is Your Mirror
When you stare into the abyss, it doesn’t just stare back—it shows you what’s missing, what’s meaningful, and what you might be avoiding. Use it wisely. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and yes, your Wi-Fi signal.
And remember, the abyss isn’t here to solve your problems. It’s here to remind you that you’re the one holding the router.