Searching for direction and purpose in a confusing world?
Nelson Mandela once said, “What matters most is the impact you have on others.” This sentiment resonates deeply, yet the question of what truly constitutes a meaningful life remains a complex and personal one.
How do we know if our lives have mattered? People of all ages ponder this. However, as we get into our 50s, 60s, and beyond, these thoughts become particularly poignant and, at times, depressing. We crave purpose; we want to matter. Yet even with life’s successes, we often feel we could have done more. Our perception can fool us into thinking we failed. I have suffered from this feeling too often.
Throughout my life, I’ve had a plethora of dreams and goals that resulted in too many unfulfilled promises. There was the “Mitten Rack” glove dryer I designed and sold but never pursued and my ergonomic computer keyboard design that I simply couldn’t sell. Then there were the books I wrote that, statistically speaking, no one read.
Hope in the Face of Failures?
What about you? Have you had similar stories? You likely have. But, do doubts and failures mean life has no meaning? Do failures make us failures?
And what does the future hold? Can we still find ways to matter? Regardless of our age and circumstances, bouts of hopelessness and worthlessness can push us into depressing thoughts. But, there is hope and that is what we’ll explore here.
To gain further insight, let’s explore the perspectives of several influential philosophers who have grappled with these very questions. I think you’ll find, like I did, ideas that resonate with you.
What Did Aristotle Think?
Aristotle, the Greek philosopher, felt our purpose was to “live the good life.” He called it eudaimonia. He inferred the need to live up to our potential and flourish. It was important to be comfortable and happy.
How? Largely by using our strengths and talents. He also believed in a virtuous life of courage, honesty, and kindness. Ultimately, he didn’t just espouse the seeking of pleasure but of making worthwhile contributions in order to find meaning.
I like that. It makes me consider my choices and successes in terms of contributions.
Nietzsche’s Take on Mattering
Next up, Friedrich Nietzsche, the renowned German philosopher. His approach was a bit different. For him, the search for comfort and happiness just wasn’t enough. His view involved more of a struggle and striving for greatness.
One may have innate talents and powers but without vigorous training and improvement, it just isn’t enough. Aim high, push hard, embrace, and defeat the challenges that come your way. Only then can you say you lived a life that mattered.
I can relate to that in many ways. I was a striver. But now I tend to feel saddened that there were too many times I never caught the brass ring. While Nietzsche’s emphasis on striving is compelling, his focus on overcoming challenges as the sole measure of a meaningful life may not resonate with everyone. Let’s consider another perspective.
Then There Was Jean-Paul Sartre
Perhaps the French thinker and philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre can help. He saw each human being as having the freedom to craft his or her own destiny and bare complete responsibility to actually matter in this world. One doesn’t have to abide by any cosmic script or external force or rule-book.
In a way this can be liberating. You’re taking the reins! However, this can be scary. It can feel like a lonely and tiring struggle, swimming hard upstream. No external “power” to throw you a lifesaver when needed.
It’s like he’s saying if you’re not winning, you’re a loser. Sartre’s emphasis on individual responsibility is empowering, but it also raises the question of how we reconcile this freedom with the inherent uncertainties of life. How does this fit with you?
Finally: William James
So I kept looking and decided to see what America’s leading philosopher had to say. William James had his own interpretation of meaning and mattering in life. He was in favor of honoring your natural talents and passions as opposed to forced mental struggles. His approach more closely adheres to “it’s the journey not the destination.”
In other words, there’s meaning in action. Meaning isn’t to be discovered as much as it’s to be uncovered through the unencumbered pursuit of your passions.
The final point I’d make about James is his admonition to engage and embrace life now, while you have it. Give the present moment all your attention through action and by doing so you’ve created your meaning. You don’t have to find it!
James’s perspective resonates more deeply with me. It offers a more comforting and practical approach to finding meaning.
In Conclusion
After my research, I concluded there’s a little bit of Aristotle in me, a little bit of Nietzsche, and a bit of Sartre, but I think William James offers me the best way to honor my past and the most hope for a full life moving forward. I believe this applies to the vast majority of us.
Our lives aren’t only a compilation of failures and successes but attempts to stay active and involved with our fellow beings. We create and created value with our actions and meaning through our journeys.
When Aristotle spoke of “worthwhile contributions” he would urge his students to interact with the community, master a personal craft, spread joy, uplift people’s spirits. I’m confident we all do just that.
The wisdom of thinkers like William James, Aristotle and Nelson Mandela encourages us to stay active and pursue our current passions. Let’s continue to touch people’s lives and focus on the journey. Let’s view our lives in a positive light and embrace the days ahead with an optimism that follows every path we take.
So, take heart. You and I do matter. Let’s embrace the journey and create meaningful connections along the way.
Are you with me? How do purpose and meaning fit into YOUR life? Let me know!
