"La existencia precede y rige la esencia"

The core idea behind "Existence precedes and rules essence" is rooted in existential philosophy, primarily championed by Jean-Paul Sartre. It means that our existence—being alive, experiencing life—comes before any predefined purpose, essence, or meaning. In simple terms, we're born without a predetermined essence or nature, and only through living, making choices, and experiencing life do we define who we are.

Historically, this concept emerged during the 20th century, particularly post-World War II, when people grappled with the gravitas of existence due to the devastating impacts and moral implications of the war. Sartre and other existentialists argued against the idea that humans have a predefined purpose given by a divine power or inherent nature. Instead, they believed that individuals are free and responsible for creating their essence through decisions and actions.

To paint a vivid picture of this idea, let's dive into a real-life example: Imagine a young woman named Maria. When Maria was born, she wasn't destined to be a doctor, an artist, or anything specific. She faced societal expectations, but those were external pressures rather than inherent traits. As she grew up, Maria experimented with various hobbies, faced numerous challenges, and made countless choices. She found herself passionate about helping others and was drawn to medicine. By making the choice to pursue a career in healthcare, studying vigorously, and ultimately becoming a doctor, Maria defined her essence. Her daily actions—caring for patients, continually learning, and innovating within her field—further shaped her identity. Maria's essence as a dedicated doctor was a result of her existence, the choices she made, and the life she lived.

Now, how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by recognizing the freedom you have to shape your own path. Don't feel confined by societal pressures or expectations. Embrace the fact that your essence is not predetermined; it's something you create through your actions and decisions. Whether you're contemplating a career change, struggling with personal relationships, or simply trying to figure out your next step, remember that your choices shape who you are. Take ownership of your decisions and understand that every experience contributes to defining your essence.

Let's imagine a relatable scenario: You're sitting at a coffee shop, feeling lost about your career. You look around and see people engrossed in their laptops, chatting with friends, and reading books. Think about the choices that brought each of these individuals to this moment. Some might be freelancers who decided to escape the corporate grind, others might be students exploring their passions, and a few could be retirees finally having the time to relish a good book. Everyone around you is defining their essence through their daily choices.

Consider your own path. Maybe you've been in a job that doesn't fulfill you. It's easy to feel stuck, but remember, existence precedes essence. You have the power to redefine your path. Start with small steps—sign up for a class, volunteer, network with people in fields you're interested in. These actions, no matter how minor they seem, will start shaping your new essence.

Remember, it's not about having a fixed destiny; it's about the journey and the choices you make along the way. Embrace the freedom to sculpt your essence through your actions. Life's canvas is yours to paint—every stroke, every color is a choice that defines you.