Author: GoalDude

Ulysses Grant

Battlefield Success: Ulysses Grant’s Strategies for Life

GoalDude

General Ulysses Grant is best known for his military prowess during the American Civil War. Grant’s success on the battlefield can be attributed, in part, to his strategic approach. Here is a look at how General Grant might have developed a strategy to achieve his goals:

  1. Define clear objectives: Grant believed in setting clear and specific objectives. Why are we marching south? Why do we need to take this town or city? Defining clear objectives helps prevent the “fog of war” from paralyzing action.
  2. Assess the situation: Grant was a master at assessing the situation around him. He would analyze the terrain, the enemy’s strength, and the available resources in order to determine the best approach for achieving his objectives.
  3. Develop a plan of attack: Grant believed in developing a clear plan of attack. He would identify the key actions needed to achieve his objectives, assign tasks to his troops, and establish timelines for execution.
  4. Execute with precision: Grant believed in the importance of precision and execution. He would ensure that his troops were properly trained, well-equipped, and disciplined. He would closely monitor progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure that his plan was executed with maximum efficiency.
  5. Maintain flexibility: Grant understood that plans could change quickly in the midst of battle. He was prepared to adjust his strategy as needed, and was always ready to adapt to new situations.
  6. Analyze results: Grant believed in analyzing the results of his actions, whether they were successful or not. He would evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of his approach, learn from his mistakes, and adjust his strategy accordingly.

                     

By following these principles, General Ulysses Grant was able to achieve his goals on the battlefield. His strategic approach emphasized clear objectives, careful assessment, precise execution, and flexibility. This approach can be applied to other areas of life as well, whether it be business, politics, or personal goals. By defining clear objectives, assessing the situation, developing a plan of attack, executing with precision, maintaining flexibility, and analyzing results, individuals can develop effective strategies for achieving their goals.

“The friend in my adversity I shall always cherish most. I can better trust those who have helped to relieve the gloom of my dark hours than those who are so ready to enjoy with me the sunshine of my prosperity.”

“In every battle there comes a time when both sides consider themselves beaten. Then he who continues the attack wins.”

“There are but few important events in the affairs of men brought about by their own choice.”

Ditch Diggers, Laundry, and Dishes: Finding Success in the Mundane

GoalDude

There is a famous line from the movie “Caddy Shack” where the character played by Ted Knight says, “The world needs ditch diggers too.” This line may seem like a simple joke, but it actually carries a deeper message about the importance of taking pride in your work.

Taking ownership, even in mundane tasks, can be quite rewarding. When you put in the time and effort to do a great job at whatever you are doing it changes your attitude and mindset. This can then bleed into other facets of life and success can start to snowball.

Taking pride in one’s work is important for several reasons:

  1. Personal fulfillment: When you take pride in your work you feel a sense of accomplishment.
  2. Professional success: Doing mundane tasks well and with enthusiasm can lead to promotions, recognition, and increased opportunities for growth.
  3. Customer satisfaction: More pride often equates to higher-quality work that can exceed expectations of customers. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  4. Reputation: Great work will always be great work. When people seeing you constantly striving to do your best you build a strong reputation for quality and reliability. This can lead to increased respect and trust from colleagues, customers, and the broader community.

How can taking pride in one’s work lead to a successful life?

Taking pride in one’s work can lead to a successful life in several ways:

  1. Increased opportunities: people want to be around others who produce good quality work; this can be both a blessing and a curse because you will likely be asked to do more, but I would rather be in this boat than be known as the “lazy one” that does mediocre jobs.
  2. Increased job satisfaction
  3. Increased financial stability: more opportunities equates to more jobs which equates to more mula!
  4. Positive impact on others: Taking pride in one’s work can have a positive impact on others. Taking pride in your work can inspire and motivate others to do the same.

In conclusion, taking pride in WHATEVER you are doing is paramount to living a successful life. Doing the dishes? Be the best god-darn dish washer there is! Folding laundry? Make sure each piece is folded to perfection. This actually makes these more mundane tasks a little bit more enjoyable. More importantly, by practicing this mindset with these types of thankless tasks it will bleed over into other areas of your life leading to snowballing success.

Get Motivated!

Mother Theresa Attending to Children in Calcutta

Reconnect with Your Loved Ones: Insight from the World’s Greatest Mother

GoalDude

Mother Teresa is widely regarded as one of the most inspirational figures of the 20th century. She is known for her tireless efforts to help the poor and sick. Her message of love and compassion can serve as a guide for improving relationships with our loved ones. Here are some tips inspired by Mother Teresa’s wisdom:

  1. Practice empathy

Mother Teresa believed in the importance of empathy, putting herself in the shoes of those she helped to understand their struggles and needs. To improve your relationship with your loved ones, it is essential to practice empathy. By understanding their perspectives and experiences you will gain, hopefully, newfound respect and admiration.

  1. Be patient

Mother Teresa was known for her patience and perseverance in the face of adversity. To improve your relationship with your family, it is important to be patient, especially if there are “demons” in the closet or prior misunderstandings that need to be cleared. It may take time to rebuild trust and repair relationships, but with patience and perseverance, it is absolutely possible.

  1. Show gratitude

Mother Teresa was a great advocate of gratitude, recognizing that being thankful for what we have is essential for leading a fulfilling life. It is important to show gratitude, taking time to appreciate the things your loved ones do for you, and expressing your appreciation through words and actions.

  1. Practice forgiveness

Mother Teresa believed in the power of forgiveness. Holding grudges only leads to more pain and suffering. Practice forgiveness, let go of past hurts and resentments, and move forward with a clean slate.

  1. Communicate openly and honestly

Mother Teresa believed in the power of open and honest communication, recognizing that communication is the key to building strong relationships. It is essential to communicate openly and honestly. Share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns in a respectful and constructive manner.

  1. Be present and attentive

Mother Teresa was known for her deep sense of presence and attentiveness, making others feel seen and heard. Make time to truly connect with them, listen to their stories, and be fully engaged in the moment.

In conclusion, by practicing empathy, being patient, showing gratitude, practicing forgiveness, communicating openly and honestly, and being present and attentive, it is absolutely possible to repair familial relationships or significantly improve already good ones. Mother Teresa’s message of love and compassion can serve as a guide for fostering deeper connections with those we love, helping us create a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

Building Wealth with Benjamin (Franklin that is)…

GoalDude

Benjamin Franklin was not only a founding father of the United States, but he was also an accomplished author, inventor, and diplomat. He is also remembered for his financial acumen. In this article, we will draw on Franklin’s wisdom to provide practical tips for achieving financial success.

  1. Develop a frugal lifestyle

One of Franklin’s most famous sayings is, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” He was a firm believer in living a frugal lifestyle. This means avoiding wasteful spending and being mindful of where each dollar (or cent for that matter) goes. Living within your means, avoiding debt, and making smart spending decisions are paramount to financial success.

  1. Make a budget and stick to it

Another key to financial success is to create a budget, and more importantly, stick to it! A budget helps ensure you are living within your means; it can also help you identify areas where you can cut back on spending. Franklin was known for his meticulous record-keeping; he kept detailed records of his income and expenses. By doing the same, you can gain a better understanding of your finances and make informed decisions about your spending habits.

  1. Invest wisely

Franklin was a savvy investor, and he believed in the power of compound interest. He famously said, “Money makes money. And the money that money makes, makes money.” To achieve financial success, it is important to invest wisely, whether it is in stocks, real estate, or other assets. It is also important to start investing early, as the earlier you start, the more time your investments have to grow. Remember that, almost invariably, time in the market beats timing the market.

“If you would know the value of money, go and try to borrow some; for he that goes a borrowing, goes a sorrowing.” – Ben Franklin


  1. Pursue multiple streams of income

Franklin believed in the importance of pursuing multiple streams of income. He was an accomplished author, inventor, and diplomat, and he leveraged his talents to create a diverse portfolio of income streams. To achieve financial success, it is important to find ways to diversify your income, whether it is through a side hustle, freelance work, or passive income streams.

  1. Cultivate a growth mindset

Finally, Franklin believed in the power of a growth mindset. He was a lifelong learner, and he believed that anyone could achieve success if they were willing to put in the effort. Learn new skills, take risks, and persist in the face of challenges; the more skills and knowledge you have the better equipped you are to take advantage of opportunities.

Benjamin Franklin’s wisdom on financial success is still relevant today. By living a frugal lifestyle, making a budget, investing wisely, pursuing multiple streams of income, and cultivating a growth mindset, anyone can achieve financial success. The key is to be disciplined, patient, and willing to put in the effort to achieve your financial goals.

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Poetic Art: Time Tested Beauty

GoalDude

The poem “Time-Tested Beauty” written by Samuel Levenson, and popularized by Audrey Hepburn, can offer insights and guidance on how to become a better person. A version of the poem is reproduced below:

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge you’ll never walk alone. People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; never throw out anybody. Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find one at the end of your arm. As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.


Here are some ways in which the poem can help make you a better person:

  1. Embrace timeless values: The poem highlights the importance of embracing timeless values such as honesty, kindness, and courage. I have never heard anyone say I wish I was less honest, kind, or courageous.
  2. Focus on the things that matter: The poem emphasizes that true beauty lies in the things that cannot be seen, such as kindness, generosity, and love. By focusing on beauty there is less room and time to focus on negativities
  3. Stay true to yourself: The poem encourages you to stay true to yourself. A surefire way to fail is to try to be someone you are not. Embrace your individuality and be true to yourself.
  4. Practice kindness and generosity: The poem emphasizes the importance of practicing kindness and generosity, even when it may not be easy. By focusing on these values, you can become a better man by exhibiting compassion and generosity towards others.

In conclusion, the poem “Time-Tested Beauty” can provide valuable insights and guidance on how to become a better person. By embracing timeless values, focusing on what truly matters, staying true to yourself, and practicing kindness and generosity, you can improve yourself and become a better person.

                                 

John Wooden

The Wizard’s Pyramid: Wooden’s Surefire Path to Success

GoalDude

John Wooden, also known as the Wizard of Westwood, and arguably one of the greatest coaches in the history of basketball, developed a philosophy of life known as the Pyramid of Success. The Pyramid of Success is a set of principles that Wooden believed were essential to achieving success both on and off the court. How can the Pyramid be used to drive success for your team? Let’s find out…

  1. Industriousness

Industriousness is the foundation of the Pyramid of Success. It is the first step in achieving any goal, as hard work and perseverance are necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve success. As a leader, it is important to encourage industriousness in your team by setting a positive example and recognizing the hard work of others.

  1. Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm, or the passion for what one is doing, is a key component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals are passionate about their work, they are more likely to put in the extra effort needed to achieve the team’s goals. As a leader, it is important to foster enthusiasm in your team by sharing your own passion for the work and encouraging others to find their own sense of purpose.

  1. Initiative

Initiative, or taking the first step towards a goal, is essential to achieving success. When individuals take initiative, they are demonstrating their commitment to the goal and their willingness to put in the effort to make it happen. Encourage members to take ownership of their work and provide them with the resources they need to be successful.

  1. Friendship

Friendship, or the ability to build strong, positive relationships, is a critical component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals work together in a supportive and collaborative environment, they are more likely to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Ask yourself one simple question: would you rather work with complete strangers or a group of close friends to achieve your goals?

  1. Loyalty

Loyalty, or the willingness to remain committed to a goal even in the face of adversity, is essential to achieving success. When individuals remain loyal to a goal, they are demonstrating their commitment to their team and their willingness to put in the effort to make it happen. As a leader, it is important to foster loyalty in your team by promoting a sense of unity and encouraging members to stay focused on the goal, even when faced with challenges.

                       

  1. Cooperation

Cooperation, or the ability to work together towards a common goal, is a critical component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals work together in a cooperative and supportive environment, they are more likely to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. As a leader, it is important to foster cooperation in your team by promoting open communication, encouraging collaboration, and recognizing the contributions of all team members.

  1. Adaptability

Adaptability, or the ability to change and adjust to new situations, is essential to achieving success. When individuals are adaptable, they are able to overcome challenges and find new and innovative ways to achieve their goals. As a leader, it is important to foster adaptability in your team by encouraging members to embrace change, providing opportunities for growth, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.

  1. Patience

Patience, or the willingness to wait for the right opportunity, is a critical component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals are patient they take the time to fully consider their options. Encourage members to think critically, make well-informed decisions, and avoid rushing into things. Additionally, it is important to recognize that success may take time and to be patient in the face of challenges and setbacks.

  1. Industriousness

Industriousness, or the willingness to work hard, is the foundation of the Pyramid of Success. It is the first step in achieving any goal, as hard work and perseverance are necessary to overcome obstacles and achieve success. As a leader, it is important to encourage industriousness in your team by setting a positive example and recognizing the hard work of others.

  1. Faith

Faith is a critical component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals have faith in themselves and their abilities, they are more likely to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As a leader, it is important to foster faith in your team by encouraging members to believe in themselves, promoting a sense of purpose, and recognizing the importance of spiritual growth.

  1. Poise

Poise, or the ability to maintain one’s composure in the face of adversity, is essential to achieving success. When individuals are able to maintain their poise in the face of challenges, they are more likely to make well-informed decisions and overcome obstacles. As a leader, it is important to foster poise in your team by encouraging members to remain calm and composed in the face of challenges and setbacks.

  1. Confidence

Confidence, or the belief in oneself and one’s abilities, is a critical component of the Pyramid of Success. When individuals are confident, they are more likely to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As a leader, it is important to foster confidence in your team by encouraging members to believe in themselves, promoting a sense of purpose, and recognizing the strengths and abilities of others.

By applying these principles of the Pyramid of Success, you can help your team strive towards a common goal. It is important to remember that success is not just about achieving a particular goal, but also about the journey and the growth that comes with it. As a leader, it is your responsibility to provide the guidance, support, and resources needed to help your team reach its full potential.

In conclusion, John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success is a powerful framework for achieving success and helping others do the same. By applying these principles, you can foster a positive, supportive, and collaborative environment that will help your team thrive. Whether you are leading a team in sports or business, the Pyramid of Success provides a roadmap to greatness.

The Paradoxical Commandments: Rules for Being a Great Father

GoalDude

My absolute favorite list of life lessons are the Paradoxical Commandments. Written by Dr. Kent M. Keith, they offer a profound approach to achieving our goals. I have found them to be very effective at helping me be the best father I can be. Here are some ways you can use the paradoxical commandments to be a great dad…

“People are illogical, unreasonable, and self-centered. Love them anyway.”

Being a great father requires patience, understanding, and unconditional love. For all the parents out there you know all to frequently how your little ones can be illogical, unreasonable, and very frequently self-centered. By loving them despite these things, you set a positive example and foster a strong, loving relationship with your children.

“If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish motives. Do good anyway.”

When you focus on being a great father, it can be easy to get caught up in societal expectations and the need for validation. Focus on doing what you feel is best for your family; don’t worry that others may not understand or appreciate your motives.

“If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway.”

Being a great father requires dedication and hard work, and success in this area may bring about challenges and obstacles. However, by continuing to strive for success and being a great father, you will build a strong foundation for your family and set a positive example for your children.

“The good you do today, will often be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.”

Your efforts to be a great father may not always be acknowledged or appreciated, but the impact that you have on your children will last a lifetime. By continuing to do what is best for your family, you can sleep well at night.

“Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway.”

Being a great father requires being open and honest with your children, even if this makes you vulnerable. By being honest and transparent, you build trust and foster a strong relationship with your children, which will benefit your family in the long run.

The Paradoxical Commandments offer a unique approach to becoming a great parent. By embracing these commandments and focusing on loving your children unconditionally, doing what is best for your family, and being honest and transparent, you will teach your children how to be good and productive members of society.

More Great Stuff on Relationships…

Gandhi leading his people.

Gandhi on Goals: Determination, Sacrifice, and Self-Reflection

GoalDude

Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian independence activist and political leader who is considered one of the greatest leaders in modern history. He is best known for his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, which he used to lead India to independence from British rule. Gandhi’s life and teachings offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to achieve their goals no matter how big or small.

One of the key aspects of Gandhi’s philosophy that can be applied to goal-setting was his emphasis on the importance of determination. Gandhi was relentless in his pursuit of freedom for India and never wavered in the face of adversity. He believed that the key to success was to remain focused and dedicated to this goal, even in the face of massive opposition. He famously said, “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”

Mahatma Gandhi

To achieve your goals, it is essential to cultivate a strong sense of determination and never give up, even in the face of setbacks. This requires a deep understanding of your goals and a clear vision of what you want to achieve. It also means embracing a growth mindset, accepting that failure is a natural part of the process of achieving your goals, and using setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

Another key aspect of Gandhi’s philosophy that can be applied to goal-setting is his emphasis on the importance of self-discipline. Gandhi was a model of self-discipline and self-control, and he believed that these qualities were essential for success. He understood that success requires hard work and sacrifice, and that it was necessary to put in the effort required to achieve your goals.

To achieve your goals, it is important to develop a strong sense of self-discipline and to cultivate habits that support your goals. This might mean setting aside time each day for focused work, avoiding distractions and temptations, and making sacrifices in the short-term in order to achieve your long-term goals. By practicing self-discipline, you can increase your chances of success and ensure that you are putting in the effort required to achieve your goals.

A third aspect of Gandhi’s philosophy that can be applied to goal-setting is his emphasis on the importance of self-reflection and introspection. Gandhi believed that it was essential to regularly reflect on one’s thoughts and actions, and to continually strive to improve oneself. He argued that self-reflection was a powerful tool for personal growth and that it was necessary for achieving success.

To achieve your goals, it is important to regularly reflect on your progress and to reassess your goals and strategies as needed. This might mean setting aside time each week or month to review your progress, seeking feedback from others, and adjusting your approach as needed. By engaging in self-reflection and introspection, you can ensure that you are on track to achieving your goals and that you are making progress towards your desired outcomes.

Finally, Gandhi’s philosophy can provide inspiration for goal-setting through its emphasis on the importance of compassion and service. Gandhi believed that success was not just about achieving personal goals, but also about making a positive impact on the world. He argued that the key to a fulfilling life was to live with purpose and to use one’s talents and abilities to serve others.

To achieve your goals, it is important to seek out opportunities to give back and to make a positive impact on the world. This might mean volunteering, participating in community service, or using your skills and abilities to help others. By putting others first and seeking to make a positive impact, you can create a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond personal achievement and success.

In conclusion, Gandhi’s life and teachings provide valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to achieve their goals in life. By focusing on determination, self-discipline, self-reflection, and compassion, a person can increase their chances of success and ensure that they are living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling. By following Gandhi’s example, a person can cultivate the qualities and habits that are essential for achieving their goals and living a life of purpose and significance.

Ultimately, Gandhi’s philosophy teaches us that success is not just about achieving personal goals, but about living a life that is guided by a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact on the world. By embracing Gandhi’s teachings, we can ensure that our goals are aligned with our values and that we are living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

In the end, Gandhi’s legacy reminds us that success is not just about what we achieve, but about how we live our lives. By following Gandhi’s example, we can ensure that our goals are aligned with our values, that we are living a life of purpose and significance, and that we are making a positive impact on the world.

Immanuel Kant

Kant and Success: A Nod to Moral Duty

GoalDude

Immanuel Kant was a German philosopher who lived from 1724 to 1804. He is considered to be one of the most influential figures in modern Western philosophy. His works continue to be widely read and studied today. While Kant is best known for his contributions to epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics, his ideas about success and personal fulfillment are also of great significance. In this article, we will explore how Kant’s philosophy can provide inspiration and guidance for those seeking success in life.

One of the key aspects of Kant’s philosophy that can be applied to success is his emphasis on the importance of duty. Kant believed that the key to a meaningful life was to fulfill one’s moral duties. He argued that a person who lives a life guided by moral duty will experience inner peace and satisfaction, regardless of external circumstances. Moral duty gives a person a sense of purpose and direction regardless of outward influences, which can be a powerful motivator and source of inspiration.

How do you determine what your moral duties are? This can be achieved through reflection and self-examination, as well as through education and the development of moral knowledge. For Kant, moral knowledge was rooted in the concept of the categorical imperative, which states that a person should always behave in a way that their actions could become universal laws. In other words, a person should act in a way that they could be proud to have everyone act in the same manner. By adhering to the categorical imperative, a person can ensure that their actions are contributing to the “greater good”.

Another important aspect of Kant’s philosophy that can be applied to success in life is the importance of reason. Kant believed that reason was the foundation of all moral and ethical decision-making. As such it is essential that reason guide your actions and choices. He argued that a person who is guided by reason will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of life and to make wise and informed decisions.

To be successful in life, it is important to cultivate a strong and rational mind. This can be done through education and the development of critical thinking skills, as well as through the practice of reflection and self-examination. By using reason to guide one’s actions and decisions, a person can avoid succumbing to emotional impulses and make choices that are based on a deep understanding of the situation and the consequences of their actions.

A third aspect of Kant’s philosophy that can be applied to success in life is the notion of autonomy. Kant believed that a person should be free to make their own choices and to determine their own destiny. He argued that a person who is autonomous will be more likely to make choices that are in line with their values and beliefs; this, in turn, will lead to a greater sense of inner peace and satisfaction.

In line with autonomy was avoiding temptation to blindly follow the advice and opinions of others. This can be achieved by developing a strong sense of self-reliance and independence. By being autonomous it becomes easier to accept or reject other’s opinions and to selectively apply those opinions that are conducive to success.

Finally, Kant’s philosophy can provide inspiration for success through the importance of integrity. Kant believed that a person’s reputation and moral character were of utmost importance, and that a person should strive to live a life of integrity and moral rectitude. He argued that having a strong sense of integrity would bring a person both inner peace and respect from others; both of these things increase the odds of living successfully.

To be successful in life, it is important to cultivate a strong sense of integrity and to always be honest and truthful in one’s actions and decisions. This can be achieved through education, reflection, and self-examination, as well as by setting high standards for oneself and striving to live up to them. By prioritizing integrity, a person can ensure that their reputation remains untarnished, and that they are well-respected by others.

In conclusion, Immanuel Kant’s philosophy provides a rich source of inspiration for those seeking success in life. By focusing on moral duty, reason, autonomy, and integrity, a person can create a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. By following Kant’s teachings, a person can ensure that their actions are guided by a strong sense of purpose and that they are living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.

Drink Deep from the Masters of Philosophy

What Existentialism Can Teach Us About Life (Sartre on Success)

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Existentialism is a philosophical movement rooted in the importance of individual responsibility. This means we have the power to create meaning and purpose through our choices and actions. We can develop a framework for making meaningful choices in life by taking responsibility for our existence.

One of the central tenets of existentialism is the freedom to shape our lives; meaning is created through our choices and actions. Sartre’s believed that we are not determined by our past experiences, our environment, or our cultural circumstances; fortunately, we have the power to make conscious and deliberate choices allowing us to create our own destiny.

Another key aspect of existentialism is the importance of authenticity. Sartre believed that it is essential to be true to oneself and live in accordance with one’s own values, beliefs, and desires. Living inauthentically, by conforming to societal norms or expectations, is to surrender our freedom and to become a “useless passion”. By embracing authenticity and living a life that is true to our own values, we can ensure we are living a good life that is meaningful (and hopefully fulfilling).

“Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.”

Jean-Paul Sartre

Existentialism also emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility. Sartre believed that we must take responsibility for our choices and actions and, perhaps more importantly, accept the consequences of those choices. This means we cannot blame our circumstances, our environment, or other people for the state of our lives.

For example, in Sartre’s play “No Exit,” the characters are faced with the realization that they are responsible for their own existence and that they cannot escape the consequences of their choices. The play demonstrates that taking responsibility for our existence is a difficult and challenging process, but that it is also the only way to achieve a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Sartre believed that we must always strive to act in accordance with OUR values and beliefs, even if it means challenging societal norms and expectations that we may not truly agree with. Living a life of integrity and authenticity is more important than conforming to societal norms.

Existentialism can help us live a good life by empowering us to take responsibility for our existence, by emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-expression, and by providing a framework for making meaningful choices. By embracing the principles of existentialism, we can create a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and in line with our own desires and values.

Think Deeper, Live Better…