You don’t need a reason, but it sure does help
We often go through life without truly understanding the deeper reasons behind our actions. You don't need a reason to live, but having one certainly helps. It’s the difference between moving through life on autopilot and truly engaging with it.
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honourable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson.
This suggests that purpose doesn’t always align with personal happiness but with a greater good—something beyond the self.
Why Ask "Why"?
Why are you doing that?
Why do you care?
What is your end goal?
Why are you putting yourself through that?
These aren’t questions you have to ask yourself, but if you choose to, you might be surprised by the answers you find.
“He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.” – Friedrich Nietzsche.
When you know your purpose, it gives you the strength to endure life's challenges, no matter how difficult they might seem.
The Changing Nature of "Why"
I’ve asked myself this question many times throughout my life. My answer has changed over the years, but the process of finding it has remained the same. Some believe we’re in an existential crisis, but I think they are projecting their own struggles onto the world. Many people go through life without ever questioning their actions or their purpose—and they are perfectly content.
“The unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates.
This highlights the importance of reflection. Taking the time to examine our lives isn’t just a philosophical exercise; it’s essential for living a meaningful, fulfilled life.
Facing the Wall: What’s the Point?
At some point, many people hit a wall and start to ask themselves, "What’s the point? Why should I care? What is the meaning of it all?"
If this resonates with you, I ask:
What brings you joy?
What makes you lose track of time?
What could you do indefinitely without getting bored?
“Don’t aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.” – David Frost.
Finding what you love can lead to success in ways you never expected. Often, the pursuit of passion brings fulfillment, even without directly seeking success.
Finding Your "Why"
The answer to these questions could be your "why."
Some people find purpose in family, others in their work, some in God, and still others in experiences or artistic expression.
If your reason is to make money, don't let anyone tell you it’s the wrong path. Your reason is yours to define. If you’re content with where you are and what you’re doing, that’s perfectly fine too.
Moderation is Key
But I’ll leave you with this thought: You might love chocolate cake, but if you ate only that, wouldn’t you eventually get sick of it? Probably yes. So, everything in moderation, even the things we love.
Focus on What Matters to You
Instead of asking, “Why are we here?” ask yourself,
What interests me?
What makes me happy?
What makes me lose track of time?
You don’t need a reason to live, but discovering one can bring purpose, meaning, and fulfillment to your life.
