Philosophical Insights on Life: How to Truly Live

Questioning the Essence of Life: Realizations in Silence and Stillness

To truly live is different from merely surviving. In the routine of our daily lives, we often lose our sense of calm and become consumed by meaningless busyness. However, silence and stillness are essential in finding direction in life. Modern society keeps us constantly connected, turning us into cogs in the system. Yet, we must pause to spend time with ourselves.
To avoid becoming a slave to external pressures, we must reclaim time for ourselves. Listening to your own inner voice and stepping outside preordained boundaries is the starting point of freedom and self-discovery.

Three Stages Toward Freedom: The Camel, the Lion, and the Child

Nietzsche explained that the human spirit progresses through three stages toward true freedom. The first stage is that of the camel, where one bears the burdens of societal responsibilities and expectations. In this phase, people follow the given path without questioning but eventually confront their limitations.
Next is the lion stage, where individuals rebel against authority and tradition to carve their path. However, this phase is limited to rejection and must evolve into creation. In the final stage, the spirit becomes like a child, embracing complete freedom and creating meaning independently. A child begins anew, exploring possibilities and redefining their path.

Battling the Monster: Protecting Your Inner Essence

The battles we face in life aren’t just about confronting external enemies but about preserving our core values during these struggles. Nietzsche warned, “He who fights with monsters should be careful lest he thereby become a monster.” This means contending with internal fears, desires, and moral compromises.
What matters most during conflict is not compromising your essence. If you rationalize wrongful methods for the sake of victory, you risk losing the very purpose of the struggle. True success lies not in defeating others but in safeguarding your principles and values throughout the journey.

The Final Laugh in Life: Living Fully in the Present

Life is filled with hardship and adversity, but those who can find joy and positivity in the present are the ones who will ultimately laugh in the end. If you can discover reasons to smile today, that attitude will lead to positive outcomes in the future.
Life is a process, and the final laugh is not achieved overnight. Loving your fate and finding meaning even in pain are what build genuine happiness. Living a fulfilled life today is the key to ensuring a joyous tomorrow.

Conclusion

Life is a series of challenges and choices. Finding your path in silence and stillness, creating life with a free spirit, and protecting yourself during struggles are all essential aspects of truly living. Life is not about merely surviving but about discovering meaning at every moment. At this moment, are you truly living? If you’ve lost your way, stop now and have a conversation with yourself. Your life is yours to create.