Umm… so I am sort of having an existential crisis almost.
And I don’t like to use this over-used and exaggerated word.
I am more concerned about the purpose of what I am doing than the end result. Which I assume is what in essence defines existential crisis, or at least that is what I think.
What is an Existential Crisis?
The text-book definition of existential crisis on the other hand is: “Existential crises are inner conflicts characterized by the impression that life lacks meaning and confusion about one’s personal identity. They are accompanied by anxiety and stress, often to such a degree that they disturb one’s normal functioning in everyday life and lead to depression.” -Source Wikipedia
We might be able to break down each element of that definition to diagnose it.
And whilst we are at that, I want to dive into what might be causing that feeling.
It might help others going through similar feelings of cluelessness and confusion regarding as to what comes next.
My Take on Existential Crisis
Now, I don’t necessarily agree with the claim that an existential crisis involves inner conflicts and the impression that life lacks meaning.
Because I do think life has meaning and purpose to it. As a Muslim, I believe the purpose of life is to worship Allah and living a life outlined by God himself, adds meaning to it. Which means I am happier if not happiest, more grateful, peaceful and less lonely.
Thus, as a Muslim, I don’t think, life lacks purpose or meaning.
A More General Take on Existential Crisis
Now that I’ve shared my opinion, here’s a more general viewpoint on a mid-life crisis.
Which is that someday like many young, semi-young and old people would, we start thinking about our place in the grand scheme of works.
Where do we fit in? Do we even have a significant role or are we just the ensemble in this play? (I was overcome by this complex whilst in the school production in year 9)
And if so, am I meant to live this repetitive life until I die? Which means we are suddenly facing existential anxiety.
The awareness of mortality and the finite nature of life can trigger deep reflection on the purpose of existence. Other then, starting a philosophical inquiry about what happens after we die, it can heighten our awareness about lack of fulfillment, suffering and challenges.
While for some this can provide liberation from constraints as it releases them from the pressure of adhering to traditional beliefs, societal expectations, or moral standards they see as arbitrary and pursue personal goals and values that are truly meaningful to them, rather than following prescribed paths. And encourages questioning established norms and values, which can lead to deeper philosophical inquiry and personal growth.
Does Nihilism Link to an Existential Crisis?
It may be touching on the more nihilistic point of views. Which in itself isn’t entirely worrisome but can quickly become a problem. Nihilism can lead to a sense of hopelessness. The belief, that nothing matters might foster apathy or a lack of motivation to pursue anything. Without a belief in objective moral values, nihilism can lead to moral relativism. Thus the distinction between right and wrong becomes blurred, potentially justifying harmful behavior. Nihilistic views can isolate individuals from others who find meaning in shared values, leading to feelings of loneliness and alienation.
So, if life starts to lose its meaning, consider talking to someone or doing some research.
I am aware that my blog has the potential to be influential especially for the younger audience. Therefore, I’d suggest doing your personal research.
Think of the blog as my take on issues many of us face in real time.
The Causes of Existential Crisis
Inner conflict and confusion about where life is headed may be another active symptom of existential crisis.
For me again, delving a little bit more into my personal beliefs, it is usually because my contact with Allah may have weakened, or the way I remember him or call upon him has altered, so he creates a source for me to find my way back to him and strengthen my faith. This may be in the form of inner conflict, a place where I can’t see the silver lining or the light at the end of the tunnel. Hence, reminding me, I have a higher being taking care of everything, big or small.
On a more secular side, holding conflicting values, doubting what you want to do versus what you’re actually doing to achieve it, fearing change (which is notoriously scary), and experiencing emotional ambivalence—where mixed feelings or decisions tear you apart—can all produce inner conflict related to inconsistencies and dilemmas within a person’s thoughts.It is only to name a few.
I am by no mean an expert and I am only sharing my thoughts so take my words with a grain of salt.
How Might you Feel During an Existential Crisis?
As to the part of the definition that sates: They are accompanied by anxiety and stress, often to such a degree that they disturb one’s normal functioning in everyday life and lead to depression.
Yes, it can cause a lot of mixed emotions.
For me it’s more of annoyance than anxiety because again I believe what is decreed for me will happen. Yet I do find myself, for hours lying on my bed frowning and sighing again and again because I don’t know what to do, to get to where I want to be.
I don’t know what steps should I take and stick to. Where should I put in the effort and hard work, because I clearly don’t want to act purposelessly?
For my friends and other people, it can cause stress and anxiety. The anxiousness about the unknown future can be excruciating. The stress of earning that first pay check, landing that first job or becoming over all stable in all aspects of life is for sure stressful.
I can feel it already thinking about it.
In worst case scenario, the thought of you in five years’ time and how you’ll get there may be so demanding and straining to a point where you are bed bound from the thought of it. Another example that is relatable is moving away from home for university or transitioning from high school into college. It is valid for you to feel worried.
However, if you are at a point where the thought paralyzes you, I’d suggest reaching out for help or finding someone to navigate your thoughts with.
And if you aren’t there quite yet, then try facing your thoughts yourself. After all reflection comes from spending time with your thoughts and feelings.
Ways to Overcome an Existential Crisis
Now that I have touched on some aspects of existential crisis and how it makes one feel, it is only fair for me to suggest some ways to tackle it.
As I said, I am by no mean an expert, it is just my little brain yapping.
Right so…
#1: Accept Uncertainty
A detrimental point for me to remember and remind myself in anxious periods of life is to recall: “what is meant to happen will happen, regardless of me worrying”
It’s much easier to say than to actually believe.
It is not easy to go with the flow and go easy on yourself when you so desperately want to be in control and get to the finish line, I guess.
Yet there is no harm in reminding yourself that universe has a plan for us and that in this massive jigsaw puzzle we have now come to call “the world”, we are still that important piece that if gone missing, the puzzle remains incomplete.
#2: Trust the Process
Trust the personalized plan that is actively in place fo us. Life may be different to what we have planned in five years’ time.
But it’s not a bad thing necessarily.
The light at the end of the tunnel may be brighter than what we had thought. So long as the purpose is clear and we choose the optimistic version of the story, I can assure that life will take a turn for the better, for sure.
#3: Become Best Friends with Optimism
I ask to take things optimistically because our perspectives determine our reality. Take the very well-known examples of a TikTok where reading certain words determines what you hear in the background sound track. It is eerily the best example of how our perception decides what we experience. Which means, always acknowledge the great and the not-so-great outcomes of something but choose to hold onto the positive results.
Power of manifestation is real after all!
The Outro
And as I write this, I want to use the words above as a reminder for myself personally as well.
Because even I don’t look at things as I have described when I am enveloped in various emotions.
Its natural guys. Don’t be so harsh on yourself.
After all we are Still Figuring It Out 😉
Or at least that’s how I see it.
Ranyia Abrar