As a spiritual existentialist and logotherapist, I advocate and appreciate the individual pursuit of meaning. I am always in awe of the relentless seeking that many intentionally set on and their quest to understand existence, along with the triumphs they attain.

The pursuit of meaning is the essential humanity latent within all of us, a commonality that is uniquely expressed both as a species and potential worth exploring.

I like to believe that we are all more similar than different. Sure, from a grounded perspective there are distinctions between you and I, between one species and another, one with another. Yet from a transcendent perspective, we all are coexisting on this sphere of a dynamic bio-dome of life, earth.

Only if we saw each other through the prisms of self reflection, acknowledging that in one way or another, we are reflected in the image of our neighbors. That we are all interconnected in this ecosystem and web of life.

Is it enough to live revolving around one’s sphere of existence only? For many it is and I supposed that’s okay. I respect that, yet perhaps there is meaning and purpose to be found in the possibility for self transcendence?

Logotherapy advocates and values the principle and practice of self transcendence.

“Self-transcendence is a primary motivation characterized by (a) a shift in focus from the self to others, (b) a shift in values from extrinsic motivation, such as materialism, to intrinsic motivation (the activity itself is the reward), (c) an increase in moral concern of doing what is right, and (d) the emotion of awe that contributes to life transformation and which inspires others.” (Wong, 2021)

In speaking to self transcendence, Dr. Wong (2021) highlights Dr. Frankl’s approach, “His dialectical and paradoxical self-transcendence (ST) model emphasizes that we can find our true self only by letting go of the old one.”

Dr. Wong (2017) also goes on to say that self-transcendence “offers the most promising path to live a life of virtue, happiness, and meaning. This way of life not only develops our character strengths and virtue, but also increases our capacity for healing and flourishing.”

Logotherapy also acknowledges that at times there is a correlation between simply remaining within one’s own sphere of self existence and experiencing symptoms pertaining to an existential vacuum or emptiness. That in transcending one’s own mode of comfort or stagnation one may experience a connection with some other intimacy greater than what one has been confined to.

Perhaps there is a fulfillment that may be found through service, empathy, and a dedicated aim to a greater cause?

Although there may be a tendency to socially withdrawal or isolate, I refuse to accept that an isolated existence is a formula that is most conducive of meaning and happiness in the grand panorama and balance of life. Dr. Batya Yaniger (2024) of the Viktor Frankl Institute of Israel goes on to further say, “In decision we transcend other mitigating factors that work against one’s inner commitment and by this attain self-transcendence.”

In this journey towards ultimate meaning there is an ebb and flow, a push and pull, a dynamic where balance as a principal is worthwhile to explore and integrate.

Within this dynamic interlude, self-transcendence is a venue for a greater sense of meaning and fulfillment.

Never forget the impact you have on the world around you. Your gifts are there and meant to be shared. We all have this greater potential.

May you find what you are seeking, and may what you are seeking also seek you.

(c)2024 John Piedrahita

References

Wong, Paul T. P. (2021). The Frankl Cure for the 21st Century: Why Self-Transcendence is the Key to Mental Health and Flourishing. https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/tbx3f

Wong, Paul T. P. (2017). From Viktor Frankl’s Logotherapy to the Four Defining Characteristics of Self-Transcendence. http://www.drpaulwong.com/four-defining-characteristics-self-transcendence/

Yaniger, Batya (2024). Self Transcendence. https://themeaningseeker.org/self-transcendence/