"Solo tengo el verdadero sentimiento de mí mismo cuando soy insoportablemente infeliz"

When you're at your lowest, those moments when everything seems unbearable, that's when you truly understand yourself. It's in these depths of unhappiness that you become most in tune with who you really are. Sounds intense, right? But think about it. When things are going great, you're cruising along, not really examining your inner workings. But hit a rough patch, and suddenly, you're forced to confront your essence — your fears, your strengths, your true self.

Historically, this idea has roots in existential philosophy. Think back to the works of thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre or Friedrich Nietzsche. They believed that facing suffering head-on was essential to discovering one's true nature. When you're stripped of distractions and comforts, you're left with nothing but raw you. It's a powerful, albeit painful, revelation.

Let's dive into a real-life example to make this clearer. Consider someone who loses their job unexpectedly. At first, they're in shock. They may feel a deep sense of failure and worry about the future. But as days go by, they start to reflect. They question what they really want in life. Maybe they realize they've been stuck in a career they weren't passionate about, just going through the motions. This forced period of unhappiness becomes a catalyst for self-discovery. They might decide to pursue a dream they've always shelved or realize they need to develop new skills. The unbearable unhappiness, in this case, opens up a path to a more authentic, self-aware existence.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? When you're in the throes of misery, don't just try to escape it. Sit with it. Reflect on it. Ask yourself why you’re feeling this way, what it says about your life, and what changes you might need. Use your unhappiness as a spotlight to illuminate parts of your life that need attention. It won't be easy, but it's worth it.

Picture this: You're sitting in a coffee shop, feeling utterly defeated after a breakup. You can't think straight, and nothing seems to lift the fog of sadness. But instead of running from these feelings, you lean into them. You start journaling — something you haven’t done in years. You write about the relationship, your role in it, your dreams that got sidetracked. Slowly, you begin to see patterns and gain insights into your own desires and fears. You realize you've been compromising too much, not just in relationships but in all aspects of life.

This process, though painful, is like shedding old skin. It's raw and uncomfortable, but it's also freeing. You start making decisions that align more with your true self. Maybe you take up painting again, something you loved but abandoned. Or you reconnect with old friends who've always supported you. The point is, the unbearable unhappiness has pushed you to a place of profound self-awareness.

So next time you find yourself in the depths of despair, remember, it’s an opportunity. An opportunity to learn about the real you. Don't shy away. Dive in. You'll come out the other side stronger, more authentic, and more in tune with your true self.