Existentialism is one of the most intriguing and empowering schools of thought of the 20th century. It poses the most fundamental of life’s mysteries: What does it mean to exist? Can we discover purpose in a meaningless universe? Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus have examined these complex concepts, offering us with important perspectives into how we can understand the struggles of human life in a world without predefined purpose.
At the heart of this philosophy is the idea that existence precedes essence. This means that we are born without any intrinsic value, and it is up to us to determine our life's significance. As Sartre put it, “We are condemned to be free,” implying that while we have the ultimate freedom to craft our future, this freedom also comes with the challenge of responsibility. For some, this is an daunting concept, but for existentialists, it’s an opportunity to face life's struggles and pursue a life of authenticity, without business philosophy being held back by the opinions of others.
Existentialist thought encourages us to take ownership of our choices, to confront the absurdities of life boldly, and to discover purpose in the things we pursue, whether it’s through innovative endeavors, interpersonal bonds, or simply the process of existence. While life may not have a larger, inherent meaning, this philosophy reminds us that we have the freedom to craft our own significance. And in doing so, we can live lives that are deeply fulfilling, even in the face of life’s uncertainties.