“Life’s meaning is something you create through your choices, not something you find.” – Albert Camus
Albert Camus, a philosopher associated with existentialism and absurdism, believed that life has no inherent meaning—instead, we must create our own meaning through our choices, actions, and values. His quote, “Life’s meaning is something you create through your choices, not something you find,” reflects this idea.
The Absurd and the Search for Meaning
Camus argued that humans naturally seek meaning, purpose, and order, yet the universe itself is silent, indifferent, and chaotic. This contradiction between our desire for meaning and the lack of inherent meaning is what he called the Absurd.
- Many people try to “find” meaning through religion, philosophy, or external truths.
- Camus rejected the idea that meaning is pre-existing—he believed that searching for it outside oneself leads to frustration.
- Instead, he proposed that meaning must be created through how we live.
Meaning Through Choices and Actions
If life has no built-in purpose, Camus believed we must choose our own path and actively shape our reality.
- Freedom – Since there’s no predefined meaning, we are free to define our own purpose.
- Responsibility – With freedom comes the responsibility to make choices that give our lives significance.
- Living Authentically – Instead of following external systems of meaning (religion, tradition, ideology), we must embrace life as it is and create our own values.
Rejecting Nihilism and Embracing Life
Camus rejected nihilism, the belief that life is meaningless and therefore nothing matters. Instead, he encouraged rebellion against the Absurd by choosing to live fully, experience deeply, and act with intention.
- Example: Sisyphus as a Symbol
- In The Myth of Sisyphus, Camus describes the Greek myth of Sisyphus, who is doomed to roll a boulder up a hill for eternity.
- Camus argues that even in a meaningless situation, we can find meaning by embracing our struggle and choosing how we respond.
- “One must imagine Sisyphus happy.” – Sisyphus is free because he chooses to keep going despite the absurdity of his task.
How This Applies to Life
Camus’ philosophy is a call to live with purpose, despite life’s uncertainties:
- Instead of searching for meaning in external things, create meaning through relationships, creativity, work, and personal growth.
- Instead of despairing over life’s absurdity, embrace it and choose to live with joy and courage.
- Instead of passively accepting societal norms, think independently and define your own values.
Final Thought
Camus’ message is empowering: We are not victims of a meaningless universe—we are free beings who shape our own meaning through how we live.
