"Je voulais des sensations fortes du genre de frissons mélodramatiques que je trouvais dans les films mais plus encore je voulais un sentiment de but."

Sometimes, we crave excitement, those adrenaline-pumping moments that make us feel truly alive. You know, like the kind you get from a high-stakes action movie or a gripping thriller. But let's be real. As exhilarating as those kicks are, there’s something deeper we’re all searching for—a sense of purpose. It's that feeling that our lives mean something, that we're part of something bigger.

Imagine being a teenager. You've got the world in front of you, and you're hungry for experiences. Maybe you dive into extreme sports, sneak into concerts, or even pull off harmless pranks just to feel that rush. But after those thrilling moments fade, what lingers? It's probably a nagging sense that just having fun isn't enough. Sure, excitement is great, but without purpose, it can feel hollow.

Take a look back in history for a sec. Think about the Beat Generation in the 1950s. These guys were all about pushing boundaries, seeking those intense experiences. Jack Kerouac, one of their iconic figures, hit the road looking for kicks but ended up writing "On the Road," a book that wasn't just about wild adventures but also about the search for meaning in a post-war world. These writers and poets were chasing something deeper than just thrills—they were on a quest for purpose amid the chaos of their time.

Now, let's talk about someone you might know. Ever heard of Elon Musk? This guy’s life is one big roller coaster of excitement—from launching rockets to digging tunnels. But Musk isn't just in it for the thrills. He’s driven by a profound sense of purpose: making humans a multi-planetary species and solving some of Earth’s biggest challenges. Every wild idea, every seemingly outlandish project, is tied back to that core mission. It’s not just about the high of success but about contributing something meaningful to humanity.

So how do you apply this to your life? Start by chasing those experiences that excite you—go ahead, take those spontaneous road trips or try bungee jumping. But while you're at it, think about what gives you a sense of fulfillment. What kind of impact do you want to have? Align your thrills with your values. Volunteer for causes you're passionate about, find work that resonates with you deeply, or mentor someone who can benefit from your experiences. It's about striking a balance between seeking excitement and building something that matters to you and others.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a close friend. You’re both reflecting on your college years, those crazy parties, the late-night study sessions. You both agree those were some of the best times. But then your friend shares how they found their calling teaching underprivileged kids. It gives them a sense of purpose that parties never could. You realize that while those wild times were fun, it's the moments when you made a difference that really stick with you.

So, next time you're out chasing thrills, remember to also look for that deeper sense of purpose. It’s not one or the other—it's about blending the excitement with meaningful actions that leave a lasting mark. That’s the sweet spot where life truly feels fulfilling.