Five Paradoxes That Trip Up Life

In the intricate dance of life, paradoxes often emerge, presenting us with ideas that appear contradictory yet harmonize upon closer inspection. These paradoxes contribute to the complexity of our existence, offering valuable insights into the human experience.

1. Knowing Our Mortality Yet Living as if Endless

We are unique in acknowledging our mortality, yet paradoxically, we spend our lives evading this inevitable truth. The denial of death, as explored by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Becker, manifests in our constant struggle between the "real world" and the "imagined world" of meaning. To overcome this paradox, we must embrace every moment and live authentically.

To Do: Quit fighting death and start living. Embrace every moment like it's your last.

2. Attachment vs. Freedom

The more we attach ourselves to possessions, obligations, and assumptions, the less free we become. Materialism and ownership can imprison us, leading to burdensome responsibilities. To break free, shift focus from accumulating things to cultivating a way of being, finding peace in simplicity.

To Do: Focus more on your way of being than your possessions. Conserve energy by needing less.

3. Wanting the Best but Doing the Least

Desiring the best while opting for the easiest path creates a deficit with the law of the Harvest – we reap what we sow. To bridge this paradox, identify areas in your life where you contribute less than you consume. Actively engage in systems rather than passively benefiting from them.

To Do: Find examples in your life where you use the system more than you contribute. Strive to do more and offer more to society.

4. Fighting Like Viruses Over COVID

The way we handle the COVID-19 crisis mirrors the behavior of viruses. Our divisive nature and failure to collaborate hinder our ability to overcome the virus. To address this paradox, recognize that the true enemy is our own discordant behavior, not the virus itself.

To Do: Come together, listen to experts, and prioritize the collective well-being over individual interests.

5. Seeking Happiness in Getting What We Want

Contrary to intuition, happiness is not solely derived from obtaining what we desire. Our ability to synthesize happiness allows us to find joy in any situation. To navigate this paradox, understand that happiness is not discovered but created, emphasizing the importance of choosing to live the best life possible within given circumstances.

To Do: Realize that happiness is synthesized. Actively work to find and create happiness in every situation.

Life's paradoxes challenge us to navigate the complexities of our existence, urging us to embrace contradiction and find harmony within the chaos. In understanding and addressing these paradoxes, we unlock the potential for a more fulfilling and meaningful life.