"El hombre es el único animal para quien su propia existencia es un problema que debe resolver"

Humans are unique in that we ponder our own existence. Unlike other animals who live by instinct, we question our purpose, our identity, and what it means to live a meaningful life. This quote is saying that, for us, existence isn't just about survival—it's a puzzle we actively try to solve.

Historically, this idea has been explored by philosophers for centuries. Think about Socrates, who famously said, "The unexamined life is not worth living." He was urging people to ask themselves deep questions about their lives. The quote highlights this human trait: we don't just live; we think about how we live.

Now, let's dive into a real-life example to bring this home. Picture a successful businessman. He’s got everything—money, a thriving company, a lovely family. Yet, he feels something’s missing. So, he goes on a sabbatical, traveling to different countries, meeting new people, and experiencing various cultures. He’s on a quest to find deeper meaning and understand his place in the world. Maybe he ends up volunteering at a remote village and finds joy in helping others. This journey is him grappling with the problem of his own existence. He realizes that fulfillment isn’t about wealth, but about connection and contribution.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by asking yourself some tough questions. What makes you truly happy? What are your values? What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? Take time to reflect on these questions regularly. Don’t be afraid to make changes if you find that your current path doesn’t align with your answers. It’s okay to pivot, to take risks, to explore new avenues that might offer a more fulfilling existence.

Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend. You're chatting about life, and you mention feeling a bit lost despite having a stable job and a good apartment. Your friend tells you about a time they felt the same way and decided to take up painting as a hobby. They didn’t become the next Picasso, but through creating art, they found a sense of peace and purpose they hadn't felt in a long time. It was their way of solving the problem of their own existence, even if just a little. Inspired, you think about what you've always wanted to try but never did. Maybe it’s writing, gardening, or even learning a new language. The point is, these activities force you to engage with your own existence in a meaningful way.

Life’s big questions don’t come with easy answers, and that’s okay. The important thing is to keep asking, exploring, and being open to new experiences. After all, it’s this very quest that makes us human.