Life is a journey filled with questions that often leave us searching for deeper meaning and purpose. Existential psychology, rooted in philosophical thought, offers a framework for understanding these profound questions. It emphasizes the human capacity for self-awareness, the pursuit of meaning, and the courage to face life’s uncertainties (Kimani, 2024). At its core, this approach asks us to embrace life as it is while creating space to explore who we truly are. Let’s dive into how existential psychology can guide us toward mindful beginnings, mental clarity, and authenticity.
Mindful Beginnings: A Fresh Perspective
In existential psychology, the idea of mindful beginnings is about fully engaging with the present moment (Robins, 2021). It’s a call to pause, reflect, and reorient ourselves toward what matters most. Often, life’s meaning can feel obscured by daily routines, societal expectations, and distractions. Yet, when we consciously choose to start anew—whether it’s with a day, a relationship, or a goal—we create opportunities for clarity and purpose.
Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, or simply paying attention to your surroundings, can help anchor you to the present (Smalley & Winston, 2022). These small acts of presence allow us to step out of the mental chaos and reconnect with our core values. When we’re grounded in the now, we’re better equipped to make intentional choices that align with our sense of purpose.
Clearing Space in Your Mind
One of the key concepts in existential psychology is the importance of clearing space in our minds (Pallasmaa, 2024). When we are overwhelmed by unprocessed emotions, cluttered thoughts, or unresolved conflicts, it becomes challenging to focus on meaning-making. Clearing mental space is about creating room for reflection and growth.
This process begins with self-awareness. Journaling, for example, is an excellent tool for untangling your thoughts and identifying recurring themes. Similarly, speaking with a trusted friend or therapist can help you articulate what’s weighing on you. Once these mental blocks are addressed, you’re free to explore deeper questions: What truly brings me joy? What do I want my life to stand for? What legacy do I hope to leave behind?
Clearing mental space also means letting go of what no longer serves you (Pallasmaa, 2024). This could include toxic relationships, unproductive habits, or outdated beliefs about yourself. By releasing these burdens, you pave the way for new perspectives and possibilities.
Embracing Authenticity
At the heart of existential psychology lies the concept of authenticity — the practice of living in alignment with your true self (Davidov & Russo-Netzer, 2022). Authenticity requires us to confront the discomfort of self-exploration and to ask: Who am I when all external expectations are stripped away?
Embracing authenticity often means facing fears, such as the fear of rejection or failure. However, these fears are necessary companions on the journey to self-discovery. As existentialist Viktor Frankl said, “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves” (Frankl, 2006). This change often involves redefining success, happiness, and fulfillment on our own terms rather than society’s.
Living authentically also means allowing ourselves to be vulnerable. It’s through vulnerability that we form genuine connections with others, deepen our understanding of ourselves, and open the door to meaningful experiences. By embracing your unique story and values, you not only find meaning in your life but also inspire others to do the same.
Existential Psychology: A Path to Meaning
Existential psychology teaches us that meaning is not something we find; it’s something we create (Kimani, 2024). Through mindful beginnings, clearing mental space, and embracing authenticity, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and purpose.
This approach doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it encourages us to live with intention, make peace with uncertainty, and celebrate the complexity of the human experience. In doing so, we uncover not only our personal meaning but also our connection to something greater.
Take the first step today. Pause, reflect, and ask yourself: What truly matters to me? In this moment of clarity, you may just find the spark of a more meaningful tomorrow.
References
Davidov, J., & Russo-Netzer, P. (2022). Existential Authenticity: Theory and Practice. Springer Nature.
Frankl, V. E. (2006). Man’s search for meaning (I. Lasch, Trans.). Beacon Press. (Original work published 1946)
Kimani, B. (2024). Relationship between Existential Philosophy and Personal Well-Being. European Journal of Philosophy, Culture and Religion, 8(1), 14-24.
Pallasmaa, J. (2024). The mind of the environment. In Aesthetics, Well-being and Health (pp. 203-220). Routledge.
Robbins, B. D. (2021). The joyful life: An existential-humanistic approach to positive psychology in the time of a pandemic. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.648600
Smalley, S. L., & Winston, D. (2022). Fully present: The science, art, and practice of mindfulness. Hachette Go.