The Book "Man's Search for Meaning" in 5 Minutes

Logotherapy: An approach to finding meaning in life

Logotherapy is a form of psychotherapy developed by Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist Viktor E. Frankl.

Frankyl founded the School of Existential Therapy following his experiences in Nazi concentration camps during World War II.

His experiences led him to discover that even in the most inhumane conditions, a person could find a reason to live.

The term "logotherapy" is derived from the Greek word "logos," which Frankl defines as "meaning” and is often associated with the concept of "will to meaning."

It suggests that our primary drive is not pleasure or power, but the pursuit and discovery of what we personally find meaningful.

Logotherapy is based on three main principles:

1. Life has meaning under all circumstances, even the most miserable ones.

2. Our main motivation for living is our will to find meaning in life.

3. We have freedom to find meaning in what we do, and what we experience, or at least how we react when faced with suffering.

Applying Logotherapy

One of the most well-known ways to apply logotherapy is "deflection of attention," where individuals are encouraged to shift their focus away from their own distress to something or someone else that they find meaningful.

Frankl's Three Main Avenues for Finding Meaning:

1. Do things that are meaningful to you whether that is a job, a hobby, or volunteer work.

2. We can find meaning through life experiences, relationships, and love.

3. When faced with inescapable suffering, find meaning in how you respond to it.

Quotes from Man’s Search for Meaning

Finding Purpose in Life

Everyone has his own specific vocation or mission in life…Therein he cannot be replaced, nor can his life be repeated. Thus, everyone's task is as unique as is his specific opportunity to implement it.

Meaning in Suffering

When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.

What is to give light must endure burning.

Choosing One’s Attitude

Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

Life’s Transitory Nature and Purpose

Live as if you were living a second time, and as though you had acted wrongly the first time.

The Meaning of Life

The meaning of life is to give life meaning.

The Search for Meaning:

He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.

Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how'.

The podcast

This year we plan to do a series of podcast episodes where we break down people’s journey before they started the thing they’re known for.

Let us know if you like this new style or if you have any suggestions on who to do next!