The quest to understand “Why Do We Exist” is a profoundly human one, echoing through millennia of philosophy, spirituality, and personal introspection. There isn’t a universal, neatly packaged answer that fits everyone. No magic formula unlocks the secret to existence, and as William Broad wisely noted, the world isn’t inherently fair, safe, sure, or pure. Yet, within this seemingly uncertain landscape, something remains, a call to begin again, to seek our own understanding.
What resonates as a meaningful answer to “why do we exist” is deeply personal and multifaceted. It’s shaped by your age, gender, background, social context, health, and countless other individual factors. However, a common thread emerges in how many people navigate this existential question: by finding something they consider meaningful. This meaning doesn’t need to be grand, cosmic, or a definitive answer to the universe’s riddles. Instead, it should be something that holds significance in your own life, within your relationships, or in the aspects of culture and society you value.
Clues to what might be meaningful for you often appear in subtle forms. Pay attention to what evokes a positive emotional response. Does a particular activity bring a smile to your face, or does thinking about a specific subject fill you with joy? Conversely, what ignites anger or frustration within you? These emotional signals are valuable indicators of your underlying values – what you appreciate and want to cultivate, or what you oppose and wish to change.
Once you identify a potential area of meaning, delve deeper to truly understand it. Are you drawn to the beauty and emotion of music? Perhaps exploring a path as a musician is worth considering. Do the playful antics of kittens brighten your day? A career as a veterinarian or working in an animal-related field might align with your values. Does the process of learning and discovery excite you? Teaching or academic research could be fulfilling avenues. Are you captivated by the worlds and ideas within books? Perhaps writing or working in publishing would resonate with you. Does witnessing injustice spark anger and a desire for fairness? Consider a career in law enforcement or criminology, focusing on prevention and justice.
After pinpointing something that resonates as meaningful, the next step involves embracing challenge and growth. Identify the most significant task related to your chosen area that you could realistically undertake. This might seem daunting, but it’s about finding your “burden to bear” – the level of responsibility and effort that stretches you but remains achievable. This journey often requires planning and preparation. It could involve pursuing higher education, starting in an entry-level position to gain experience, or taking a first step, however small, towards your goal.
For many, this pursuit of meaningful and challenging work becomes the very essence of their “why.” It’s not about finding a pre-ordained answer to existence, but about creating your own meaning through engagement, contribution, and the pursuit of something larger than oneself. The joy isn’t necessarily in the destination, but in the journey of dedicating yourself to work that is both interesting and demanding, work that aligns with your values and provides a sense of purpose in your unique existence.
