Existence Precedes Essence

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The meditation, grounded in the existentialist idea that “existence precedes essence,” conveys that we are not born with a predetermined purpose or meaning. Instead, we define our essence—our purpose and identity—through our choices, actions, and the values we create for ourselves. Let’s break it down and explore how to put the concepts into practice:

1. Existence Precedes Essence

Concept:
At the core of existentialism is the belief that humans exist first and then define themselves through their actions. We are not inherently “good” or “bad,” nor are we born with a predefined purpose. Life is a blank canvas.
How to Practice:
• Embrace freedom: Acknowledge that you have the power to shape your life, even in small ways. Let go of societal labels or imposed roles that no longer serve you.
• Reflect on your starting point: Begin with the fact of your existence. Recognize that nothing is holding you to the past except your own perspective.

2. We Create Meaning Through Actions

Concept:
You are not defined by your thoughts or intentions alone; it is through action that your purpose comes alive. Your essence emerges as you make choices and take steps toward what matters to you.
How to Practice:
• Act intentionally: Set a small, achievable goal tied to your values (e.g., helping someone, learning a skill, or expressing creativity).
• Live authentically: Make choices that reflect what is important to you, not what others expect. For example, if kindness is a core value, seek opportunities to embody it in your daily interactions.
• Accept mistakes: Recognize that failure and imperfection are part of the process. Each action teaches you and refines your sense of purpose.

3. Clarify Your Intentions

Concept:
Before you can align your actions, you must understand what truly matters to you. What do you desire to create? What vision do you hold for your life?
How to Practice:
• Meditate or journal: Spend time in quiet reflection asking yourself, What do I want my life to stand for?
• Identify your values: Write down the principles or qualities you want to guide your life, such as compassion, creativity, or resilience.
• Revisit your “why”: For every major decision, pause to ask, Does this align with the person I want to become?

4. Align Actions with Purpose

Concept:
Your actions should reflect the purpose you desire to create. When your choices are in harmony with your values and intentions, you create a meaningful and authentic life.
How to Practice:
• Set aligned goals: Choose goals that resonate with your clarified values. For example, if you value health, commit to daily movement or mindful eating.
• Audit your actions: Reflect on your day and ask, Did my actions today align with my purpose? Adjust as needed.
• Build consistency: Purpose isn’t built in a day—it’s created over time through sustained, intentional action.

5. Embrace the Journey

Concept:
Purpose isn’t static. It evolves as you grow, learn, and take new actions. What matters most is the freedom to continually create yourself, moment by moment.
How to Practice:
• Stay open to change: Accept that your purpose and identity may shift with new experiences. Adapt without judgment.
• Find meaning in the process: Appreciate the journey rather than fixating on the destination. Each action, even small ones, contributes to the larger picture.
• Celebrate progress: Acknowledge the ways you’ve already shaped your life and essence through the choices you’ve made.

In Summary:
The meditation teaches that we create our purpose by clarifying our intentions and aligning our actions with the vision we hold for ourselves. Start by reflecting on your values and desires, then take small, meaningful actions each day that embody those intentions. Recognize that mistakes and growth are part of the process and embrace the freedom to continually reshape your purpose as you evolve.