Man’s Search for Meaning: A Review

I recently re-read Man’s Search For Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl. If you are not familiar, its an internationally famous story of a psychiatrist’s experience of surviving the Holocaust, and the basis for one of his therapy methods, logotherapy. Here are a couple things that have been on my mind in the past month. 

1. It is too easy to forget the value of making meaning

On at least a weekly basis I am preaching to someone the importance of having a strong hold on the concepts of “meaning and purpose”. Many clients have heard me talk about how “a sense of meaning and purpose” is one of the most common things identified as a reason someone found substance use recovery. Or that higher rates of engagement in spiritual health can even lead to better health outcomes (https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/spirituality-better-health-outcomes-patient-care/). However, on those same days where I talk a great game, I can find myself going through the motions, doom scrolling and questioning the future. Although my problems do not even compare to the horrors faced by Dr. Frankl, even the basic struggles of a generally healthy life can leave me feeling drained or empty. Reminding myself in the last month that many of my rough days are in service of being a good father, improving the life of my partner, or helping my community be a better place, can help the load of life feel that much lighter. 

2. A reminder to love

“Love is the only way to grasp another human being in the innermost core of his personality”. (Page 111). Frankl preaches the importance of Love in finding and making meaning. Again, its easy to forget some of the most basic concepts that make life amazing. How to Love by Thich Nhat Hanh was my next read to keep the momentum rolling. 

If you have never read it, or even if its been a long time, consider picking it up.