The study of existentialism is often associated with angst and grief and struggle. I was pulled to existentialism for the opposite reason–to find joy. Existential happiness as opposed to pessimistic nihilism. I also like to call it optimistic nihilism.
At its core, existentialism is the “why” behind life. Why are we here? Why do we die? Why does it matter?
I like to think of existentialism as a giant void. None of the questions above can be answered with objective certainty. Why are we born and why do we die? Many areas of philosophy and science dig into this. The “answers” look something like: Because God. Because Evolution. Because a different God. Because Science.
And which of these answers is true?
Like any good existentialist I say none of these answers are true, or maybe all of them are true. Because individuals can believe in their own truths and subjective truth is possible, while objective truth is not.
That’s where the fun starts. The meaning of life is a question each individual gets to answer. Society warns us to avoid starting into the void; but why avoid it?
Why am I here? The only answer is, at very base, is because I choose to be here.
Existential Happiness is a Real Thing
Exploring the giant void that is the “why” behind life is fascinating to me. Many people avoid starting into this void because it can quickly become overwhelming. Existential angst (often called life-crisis, usually mid) is caused by fear of being swallowed into that void.
But why can’t there be optimistic nihilism and Existential Happiness? Why does the void have to be negative and avoided?
Existential happiness is not only a real concept, but it’s a profound way to experience life.
Finding Meaning
Existential happiness begins with finding meaning and purpose in your life. It’s about asking the hard questions about your life and then crafting the answers. Only when you are able to align your actions and choices with your values and purpose can you start to uncover the beauty of the void.
Embracing Freedom
Existentialism celebrates individual freedom and the power of choice. Finding happiness comes in embracing this freedom, taking responsibility for the decisions you make and understanding the power of intentional action.
Behind the void of unlimited freedom lies the beauty of existential thought. The realization that you can shape your own life.
Living Authentically, in the Present
As human beings we have a unique ability to be true to ourselves in a way that other animals cannot. Living authentically, according to the values that you have determined allows existential happiness to unfurl.
This is a simple proposition but a difficult endeavor. It means aligning your actions and choices with your inner values and beliefs, even if they go against societal norms and expectations.
If you are being true to your inner compass and immersing yourself in the actions of daily life, you are able to savor all the simple joys of life, form meaningful connections with others and enjoy your time on this Earth.
Being Resilient
Asking yourself the hard questions, engaging in the mysteries of life, you have a unique opportunity to develop a deep understanding of yourself and the world you live in.
Finding happiness is a choice. And it certainly doesn’t mean that life, viewed positively, is without challenges or suffering. It’s about resilience and being able to adapt to the flow of life with a sense of internal purpose.
Laughing with the Absurdity
One of my favorite things about the existentialist thinkers of the past, is their collective ability to find humor in absurdity. Existentialists first recognize the inherent absurdity of life. Instead of choosing to despair, however, we join the absurdity and laugh along.
They had me at absurd.
Absurdity is a playground for creativity and finding a sense of wonder. Existential happiness is about living a life that feels meaningful, authentic and fulfilling, even in the midst of chaos and absurdity, suffering and constant challenge.
Existential happiness is just…extra. It’s going past the surface-level pleasures we find in life and tapping into the core of our needs and desires.
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