Where, Who, What, and Why
We often answer life's most profound questions with the most superficial responses. Taking the time to understand exactly who you are is the true foundation of a meaningful life.
"A person who doesn't know what the universe is, doesn't know where they are. A person who doesn't know their purpose in life doesn't know who they are or what the universe is. A person who doesn't know any one of these things doesn't know why they are here." Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, 8.52
We receive basic questions which include "Who are you?" and "What do you do?" and "Where are you from?" as common requests. The question seems unimportant to us which leads to our decision to respond with a basic answer.
But if you were truly pressed for a substantive answer, could you provide one? Have you taken the necessary time to get true clarity about who you are and what you stand for?
People spend too much time avoiding serious self-reflection because they choose to pursue worthless activities which they copy from incorrect role models while they pursue nonexistent paths that bring them no satisfaction. Your life will lack direction because you do not understand your identity or your purpose.
Common Questions
Why do we struggle to answer "Who are you?"
We generally treat it as a passing, superficial question. Because we rarely pause to give it real thought, most people would not be able to give a substantive answer if they were truly pressed for one.
What happens when we lack clarity about our purpose?
Without knowing who you are or what you stand for, you risk spending your time mimicking the wrong influences and chasing unimportant things down unfulfilling paths.
Why is self-knowledge important to the Stoics?
Marcus Aurelius highlights that a person who lacks knowledge of their purpose doesn't truly know who they are, where they are, or why they are even here.
Your Key Takeaway: Stop giving superficial answers to your own life. You must take the time to define exactly who you are and what you stand for, so you can stop chasing unimportant things and mimicking the wrong influences.