5 Provocative (But Essential) Questions to Find Your Purpose in Life

Key Takeaways:

• The search for meaning is universal.
• Purpose drives our actions and choices.
• Identifying meaning is a deeply personal journey.
• Avoid common mistakes in finding purpose.
• Asking the right questions reveals insights.

The Weight of Questioning Life's Purpose

We've all been there, in that quiet moment when the noise of daily life fades, and a single, piercing question emerges: What is the point of living life? It's a question that, if left unanswered, can weigh heavily on our minds, creating an unsettling void that pulls us into a spiral of doubt and uncertainty.

Throughout history, philosophers, psychologists, and everyday people have wrestled with this profound question. It's not just a fleeting thought—it's a central theme of human existence. Whether you're lying awake at night pondering the future, or facing a crossroads in life, the need to find purpose is a universal struggle. And while this search can feel overwhelming, it's also where true meaning is often discovered.

Why Do We Need a Purpose?

Purpose isn't just a lofty ideal; it's a fundamental part of our mental well-being. Viktor Frankl, a renowned psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor, famously wrote, “Those who have a 'why' to live, can bear with almost any 'how.'” His words resonate deeply because they capture the essence of why purpose matters.

When we have a sense of purpose, our lives gain direction. It's the compass that guides us through the storms and keeps us grounded when the world seems chaotic. Purpose gives our actions meaning and infuses our lives with a sense of significance. Without it, we risk feeling adrift, lost in a sea of monotony and existential dread.

Moreover, purpose isn't just about grandiose goals or world-changing ambitions. It can be found in the small, everyday moments—raising a family, nurturing relationships, or even pursuing a hobby that brings joy. The need for purpose is deeply ingrained in our psyche, pushing us to seek out what truly matters and live a life that feels fulfilling.

Life and the Struggle to Find Meaning

Life, with all its unpredictability, often feels like a maze with no clear exit. The search for meaning can be an exhausting journey, filled with moments of doubt, frustration, and even despair. It's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, obligations, and societal expectations, leaving little time to reflect on what truly gives our lives meaning.

We all face times when the path forward seems obscured by a fog of uncertainty. Maybe it's after a significant loss, a failed relationship, or a career setback. In these moments, it's natural to question everything—to ask, “What is the point of this life?” The struggle to find meaning isn't just a philosophical endeavor; it's a deeply personal battle that touches the core of who we are.

But it's precisely in this struggle that we can find the seeds of our purpose. The act of questioning, of pushing through the discomfort of not knowing, is what leads us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. It's in the chaos that clarity can emerge, as long as we are willing to confront the difficult questions and seek out the answers that resonate with our true selves.

The Four Main Ideologies of Identifying Meaning

Throughout history, humanity has grappled with the question of life's purpose, leading to the development of various ideologies that attempt to provide answers. These ideologies offer different lenses through which we can view our existence and find the meaning that resonates most with us.

1. Religious and Spiritual Beliefs: For many, religion provides a clear and comforting framework for understanding the purpose of life. Whether through the teachings of Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, or any other faith, the belief in a higher power and an afterlife can offer profound meaning and guide our actions and decisions.

2. Existentialism: In stark contrast, existentialism suggests that life has no inherent meaning, and it is up to each individual to create their own. This philosophy, popularized by thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, encourages us to embrace the absurdity of existence and find meaning through our choices and actions.

3. Humanism: Humanism places emphasis on the value of human beings and our capacity for self-determination. It rejects the need for divine intervention and instead focuses on the potential for growth, learning, and achievement as the sources of life's purpose.

4. Nihilism: Nihilism takes a more pessimistic approach, asserting that life is meaningless and that any search for purpose is ultimately futile. While this perspective can seem bleak, it also challenges us to confront the reality of our existence and find personal significance in the face of meaninglessness.

Each of these ideologies offers a unique perspective on the question of meaning, and it's up to us to explore and decide which resonates most with our experiences and beliefs. In this exploration, we can start to piece together our own understanding of life's purpose.

The Existential Perspective: Embracing the Absurd

Existentialism is a philosophy that asks us to confront one of the most challenging ideas: that life may have no inherent meaning. At first glance, this notion can seem overwhelming, even terrifying. After all, if there's no predetermined purpose, what are we striving for? Why get up in the morning? Yet, this perspective also offers a unique form of liberation.

Jean-Paul Sartre, a prominent existentialist philosopher, famously declared, “Existence precedes essence.” In other words, we are not born with a specific purpose; instead, we create our essence—our purpose—through our actions and choices. This freedom to define our own lives is both exhilarating and daunting, as it places the responsibility for meaning squarely on our shoulders.

Embracing the absurd, as Albert Camus suggested, involves acknowledging the irrationality of life and choosing to live fully in spite of it. The “absurd” refers to the conflict between our desire for meaning and the silent, indifferent universe that offers none. Rather than despair, Camus argues that we can find joy and fulfillment in the simple act of living, of continuing to seek and create meaning, even when the answers remain elusive.

This existential approach challenges us to live authentically, to make choices that reflect our true selves, and to find purpose in the very act of living, despite the absence of any cosmic plan. It's about carving out a space for ourselves in a world that offers no guarantees, and finding peace in the knowledge that we are the architects of our own lives.

Psychological Insights on Life's Purpose

Psychology offers a wealth of insights into the human need for purpose and how it shapes our well-being. At the core of many psychological theories is the understanding that having a sense of purpose is crucial for mental health and overall life satisfaction.

One such theory is Self-Determination Theory (SDT), developed by psychologists Edward Deci and Richard Ryan. SDT posits that people have three basic psychological needs: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. When these needs are met, individuals experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Autonomy involves feeling in control of our lives and decisions, competence is the sense of being effective in our actions, and relatedness is the connection we feel with others. Purpose often emerges when these needs align, guiding us toward activities and goals that satisfy these fundamental aspects of our psychology.

Another critical concept is Viktor Frankl's idea of “logotherapy,” which is centered on the belief that the primary drive in human life is not pleasure (as Freud suggested) but the pursuit of meaning. Frankl argued that even in the face of extreme suffering, like that experienced in concentration camps, individuals could find purpose by identifying a future goal, a reason to live. This forward-looking focus can help us transcend even the most challenging circumstances.

Furthermore, positive psychology, championed by Martin Seligman, emphasizes the importance of meaning as a component of well-being. According to Seligman's PERMA model, meaning—along with positive emotions, engagement, relationships, and accomplishments—is essential for a fulfilling life. Engaging in activities that align with our values and contribute to something greater than ourselves is key to finding purpose.

Psychological research supports the idea that purpose is not just a philosophical or spiritual concept but a vital part of human psychology. It gives us a reason to persevere through adversity, motivates us to achieve our goals, and enhances our overall sense of happiness and contentment.

5 Common Pitfalls in the Search for Meaning

The journey to find meaning in life is deeply personal, yet it's easy to fall into traps that can lead us astray. These pitfalls often arise from societal pressures, misconceptions about what a meaningful life looks like, or even our own fears and insecurities. Recognizing these common mistakes is the first step toward avoiding them and staying true to our unique path.

One of the biggest dangers in the search for meaning is the tendency to adopt someone else's vision of what life should be. We live in a world where success and happiness are often defined in narrow, conventional terms—career achievements, material wealth, or social status. It's all too easy to internalize these ideals and pursue them, only to find that they don't bring the fulfillment we expected.

Another common pitfall is the focus on external validation. We might seek approval from others, whether it's through social media, professional recognition, or personal relationships. While validation can feel rewarding, it's a fleeting satisfaction that doesn't address the deeper need for purpose that comes from within.

There's also the risk of equating purpose with a single, overarching goal. While having a clear direction is important, life is rarely linear. Clinging too tightly to a specific outcome can lead to disappointment and frustration, especially when life takes unexpected turns.

Finally, we often overlook the simple joys and everyday moments that contribute to a meaningful life. In the pursuit of “big” achievements, we may neglect the smaller, quieter sources of purpose that are just as valuable.

1. Following Someone Else's Path

One of the most common traps in the search for meaning is the temptation to follow someone else's path. Whether it's the expectations of our parents, the influence of society, or the allure of a seemingly perfect life we see in others, it's easy to be swayed by external forces that don't truly align with our values.

This can manifest in many ways—choosing a career that others deem prestigious, pursuing a lifestyle that's popular or trendy, or even adopting beliefs that aren't genuinely ours. While these choices might bring short-term satisfaction or approval, they often lead to a deeper sense of emptiness or dissatisfaction over time.

Living someone else's life means ignoring our own unique desires and talents. It's like trying to fit into a mold that wasn't made for us—uncomfortable at best, and stifling at worst. When we follow a path that isn't our own, we lose touch with our authentic selves, and the sense of purpose we seek becomes elusive.

To avoid this pitfall, it's crucial to spend time reflecting on what truly matters to us, independent of external expectations. What are the activities, causes, or goals that ignite a genuine passion within us? What values do we hold dear, and how can we live in a way that honors them? By focusing on these questions, we can begin to carve out a path that is uniquely ours, one that leads to a life filled with meaning and fulfillment.

2. Focusing Solely on Personal Success

In a culture that often equates success with personal achievement, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that meaning in life comes solely from reaching individual goals. Whether it's climbing the corporate ladder, accumulating wealth, or achieving recognition in a particular field, the pursuit of personal success can be all-consuming. But does it really lead to a fulfilling life?

While achieving personal goals can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride, it's important to remember that these achievements are only one piece of the puzzle. When we focus exclusively on personal success, we may neglect other areas of life that contribute to our overall sense of meaning—relationships, community, and personal growth, to name a few.

Moreover, the relentless pursuit of success can lead to burnout, stress, and a sense of emptiness once the goal is reached. It's not uncommon to hear stories of people who, after reaching the pinnacle of their careers, feel a profound sense of “Is this all there is?” The joy of success fades quickly if it's not accompanied by a deeper connection to something meaningful beyond ourselves.

True fulfillment often comes from balancing personal success with contributions to others, whether through acts of kindness, supporting loved ones, or engaging in causes that resonate with our values. It's this balance that enriches our lives and helps us find lasting purpose.

3. Defining Life Through Career Achievements

Another common pitfall in the search for meaning is defining our lives solely through our careers. In today's society, where work often dominates our identities, it's easy to believe that our worth is tied to our professional success. We spend years pursuing degrees, climbing the corporate ladder, and striving for promotions, all in the name of building a “successful” career.

But what happens when the job title, salary, or status we've worked so hard for no longer brings satisfaction? Or worse, what if it's taken away? The danger in defining life through career achievements is that it's inherently unstable. Careers can change, industries can shift, and what once felt fulfilling may no longer hold the same appeal.

Furthermore, placing too much emphasis on career achievements can lead to a neglect of other vital aspects of life. Relationships may suffer, personal passions may be put on hold, and the simple pleasures of everyday life may be overlooked. When we tie our identity and self-worth solely to our careers, we risk losing sight of the broader, richer tapestry of life.

It's essential to recognize that while our careers are important, they are not the entirety of our lives. By cultivating interests, hobbies, and relationships outside of work, we can build a more resilient and balanced sense of purpose. This broader perspective allows us to find meaning not just in what we do for a living, but in how we live our lives as a whole.

4. Expecting a Linear Journey

One of the most pervasive myths about finding meaning in life is the belief that the journey is a straight path. We often imagine a clear, linear progression—set a goal, work hard, achieve it, and voila, meaning and purpose are found. However, life rarely unfolds in such a tidy manner. It's more like a winding road with unexpected detours, roadblocks, and even U-turns.

Expecting a linear journey sets us up for frustration and disappointment when reality doesn't match our expectations. When life takes an unexpected turn—whether it's a career change, a personal loss, or a sudden shift in priorities—it's easy to feel lost or like we've failed in some way. But these twists and turns are not setbacks; they're part of the process.

In fact, some of the most meaningful experiences come from navigating these unexpected challenges. They force us to reassess our values, adapt to new circumstances, and grow in ways we never anticipated. The journey to finding meaning is not about following a straight line; it's about embracing the curves and trusting that each twist and turn brings us closer to understanding ourselves and our purpose.

It's essential to let go of the expectation that life's journey should be straightforward. By accepting that the path to meaning is often meandering and unpredictable, we can approach our search with more openness and resilience. It's in the journey itself, with all its ups and downs, that we discover the depth and richness of life's purpose.

5. Overlooking Simple Joys

In the pursuit of life's grand meaning, it's easy to overlook the simple joys that bring daily fulfillment. We often become so focused on achieving big goals or finding profound answers that we miss the small, everyday moments that add color and warmth to our lives.

These simple joys might include savoring a cup of coffee in the morning, sharing a laugh with a friend, or taking a quiet walk in nature. They are the moments that ground us, connect us to the present, and remind us that life's meaning isn't always found in monumental achievements but in the gentle rhythm of daily life.

Overlooking these joys can leave us feeling perpetually unsatisfied, as if we're always chasing something just out of reach. But when we slow down and appreciate the beauty in the mundane, we realize that these small moments are the threads that weave together a life of purpose and contentment.

By shifting our focus to include the simple joys, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling life. It's about finding meaning not just in the big picture but in the details of our everyday existence. These moments of quiet happiness are just as important as the larger milestones on our journey to discovering life's purpose.

5 Provocative Questions to Help You Discover Your Purpose

Sometimes, the answers we seek aren't found in the obvious places. When it comes to discovering our life's purpose, the right questions can unlock doors we didn't even know existed. These aren't the typical, surface-level questions that offer quick, easy answers. Instead, they're the ones that push us to think deeply, challenge our assumptions, and confront the truths that lie beneath our everyday thoughts.

By asking yourself these provocative questions, you engage in a process of self-exploration that can lead to profound insights. They're designed to stir something within you, to make you pause and reflect in ways you might not have before. And in that reflection, you might just find the seeds of your purpose waiting to be nurtured.

So, let's dive in and explore these questions. They may not provide immediate clarity, but they're sure to provoke thought and guide you toward a deeper understanding of what truly matters in your life.

1. What Legacy Do You Want to Leave Behind?

When we think about our purpose in life, it's essential to consider the impact we want to have on the world and the people around us. What legacy do you want to leave behind? This question forces us to think beyond the immediate, day-to-day concerns and consider the long-term effects of our actions, decisions, and values.

Legacy isn't just about wealth or tangible achievements; it's about the imprint we leave on others' lives. It's the values we pass on, the relationships we nurture, and the differences we make—no matter how small—in our communities or even in the world at large.

Perhaps you want to be remembered for your kindness, your courage, or your ability to inspire others. Maybe your legacy is tied to a cause you're passionate about, a piece of art or writing you create, or the way you raise and support your family. Whatever it is, defining your legacy helps clarify what you want to focus on in your life. It provides a guiding star, helping you make choices that align with the impact you wish to have.

Thinking about your legacy isn't just about the future; it's about living with intention now. It's about making choices that reflect the person you want to be and the world you want to help shape. By keeping this question in mind, you can steer your life in a direction that feels meaningful and aligned with your deepest values.

2. If You Knew Your Time Was Limited, How Would You Live?

Imagine, for a moment, that you were told you had a limited amount of time left to live. How would that knowledge change the way you approach each day? What would you prioritize? What would you let go of? This question forces us to confront our mortality, but in doing so, it also brings clarity to what truly matters.

When we're faced with the reality that our time is finite, the trivial concerns and distractions of daily life often fall away. What emerges is a sharper focus on the things that bring genuine joy, fulfillment, and purpose. Maybe you would spend more time with loved ones, pursue a long-held passion, or finally take that leap of faith you've been hesitating over.

This question isn't meant to induce fear but to inspire action. It reminds us that time is precious, and it's up to us to make the most of it. Living as if time is limited can help us prioritize what truly aligns with our values and passions, encouraging us to live more authentically and fully in the present moment.

3. Which Global Issue Drives You the Most?

Another powerful question to explore is: Which global issue drives you the most? In a world filled with challenges, from climate change to social inequality, finding a cause that resonates deeply with you can be a profound source of purpose.

We're all moved by different issues, whether it's protecting the environment, advocating for human rights, supporting education, or addressing poverty. Identifying the global issue that stirs your passion can guide you toward actions and contributions that feel meaningful and impactful.

Perhaps you feel a strong pull toward environmental conservation, and you want to dedicate your time and resources to preserving the planet for future generations. Or maybe you're driven by a desire to improve access to education in underserved communities, believing that knowledge is the key to empowerment and change.

Whatever the issue, allowing it to guide your actions can infuse your life with a sense of purpose that extends beyond your personal sphere. It connects you to a larger cause, reminding you that your efforts, no matter how small, contribute to the collective well-being of humanity and the world we share.

4. When Are You Most Engaged and Present?

One of the most revealing questions you can ask yourself is, “When am I most engaged and present?” Think about the moments when you lose track of time, when you're so immersed in an activity that everything else fades into the background. These are the times when you're truly living in the moment, fully connected to what you're doing.

These moments of deep engagement are significant clues to understanding what gives your life meaning. Whether it's during a creative project, in deep conversation with a friend, while helping others, or simply enjoying nature, these experiences highlight what resonates most with your inner self.

By identifying these times, you can begin to structure your life around activities that bring you into this state of flow. It's about finding what naturally draws you in and makes you feel alive. When we're engaged and present, we're not just passing through life; we're actively participating in it, fully experiencing the richness of each moment.

So, pay attention to those times when you feel most connected and alive. These are the moments that point toward your true passions and purpose, guiding you toward a life filled with meaning and fulfillment.

5. What Trade-offs Are You Willing to Make?

Finding your purpose often involves making choices, and with choices come trade-offs. The question, “What trade-offs are you willing to make?” is essential because it brings to light the reality that pursuing a meaningful life sometimes requires sacrifice.

Perhaps you've identified a passion or a cause that excites you, but it requires significant time, energy, or even financial resources. Are you willing to give up certain comforts, or alter your lifestyle, to pursue what truly matters to you? This question forces you to confront the practical aspects of living a purposeful life.

For example, pursuing a career in a field you're passionate about might mean earning less money than you would in a more conventional job. Or dedicating time to a meaningful project might require you to forgo leisure activities or spend less time on other pursuits. Understanding what you're willing to trade off helps clarify your priorities and strengthens your commitment to your chosen path.

By honestly assessing the trade-offs you're willing to make, you can approach your search for meaning with a realistic and grounded perspective. It's about aligning your actions with your values, even when it requires making difficult choices. These trade-offs, when made in service of something greater, become a part of the journey toward a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Finding Purpose: What It Means to Truly Live

Finding purpose is more than just identifying a set of goals or ambitions; it's about discovering what it means to truly live. When we talk about living with purpose, we're talking about engaging with life in a way that feels deeply meaningful and fulfilling. It's about waking up each day with a sense of direction, knowing that what you're doing matters—not just to you, but to the world around you.

Living with purpose doesn't mean life will always be easy or straightforward. In fact, it often involves facing challenges, making sacrifices, and pushing through difficult times. But it's in these moments of struggle that we often find the greatest meaning. Purpose gives us the strength to persevere, the courage to take risks, and the motivation to keep moving forward, even when the path is unclear.

To truly live with purpose is to live with intention. It's about making conscious choices that align with your values and passions, and being fully present in the experiences that matter most. It's about contributing to something larger than yourself, whether that's through your relationships, your work, or your community. Ultimately, finding purpose is about living a life that feels authentic, fulfilling, and deeply connected to what you believe in.

Practical Steps to Finding Your Own Meaning

The journey to finding purpose may seem daunting, but it's a process that can be broken down into practical steps. These steps are not about finding quick fixes or easy answers; they're about taking thoughtful, intentional actions that lead you closer to a life of meaning and fulfillment.

1. Reflect on Your Values: Start by considering what truly matters to you. What principles guide your decisions? What do you believe in? Understanding your core values is the foundation for finding purpose. These values will serve as your compass, guiding you toward actions and decisions that feel aligned with who you are.

2. Explore Your Passions: Think about the activities, causes, or subjects that excite you. What makes you feel alive and engaged? Exploring your passions can reveal where your interests and talents intersect, providing clues to your life's purpose.

3. Set Meaningful Goals: Once you've identified your values and passions, start setting goals that reflect them. These goals don't have to be grandiose; they just need to be meaningful to you. Whether it's pursuing a new hobby, volunteering for a cause you care about, or making changes in your career, setting goals gives you direction and motivation.

4. Embrace Growth and Change: Purpose is not static; it evolves as we grow and change. Be open to new experiences and perspectives, and allow your sense of purpose to evolve with you. This might mean reevaluating your goals or trying new things as you learn more about yourself.

5. Connect with Others: Purpose often emerges through relationships and connections with others. Whether it's through family, friendships, or community involvement, these connections provide a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Engage with people who inspire you and support your journey toward a meaningful life.

Finding purpose is not about reaching a final destination; it's an ongoing journey. By taking these practical steps, you can start to uncover what brings meaning to your life and begin to live in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling. It's a process of discovery, growth, and connection that leads to a life well-lived.

The Importance of Reflection and Adaptation

In the search for meaning, reflection and adaptation are crucial practices. Life is dynamic, full of unexpected changes, challenges, and opportunities. To navigate this ever-shifting landscape, we need to regularly take time to reflect on our experiences, our goals, and our sense of purpose.

Reflection allows us to pause and assess where we are in our journey. It's a chance to consider what's working, what isn't, and where we might need to make adjustments. This practice isn't about dwelling on the past, but about learning from it. By looking back, we can gain insights that help us move forward with greater clarity and intention.

Adaptation, on the other hand, is the willingness to change course when necessary. As we grow and our circumstances evolve, our sense of purpose might shift as well. It's important to remain flexible and open to these changes. Sticking rigidly to a predefined path can lead to frustration and a sense of being stuck. Embracing adaptation allows us to stay aligned with our values and passions, even as they evolve over time.

Ultimately, reflection and adaptation are about staying connected to our true selves. They help us ensure that the life we're living continues to resonate with who we are and what we believe in. By making these practices a regular part of our lives, we can navigate the journey of finding and maintaining purpose with greater ease and fulfillment.

Living a Life Aligned with Your Values

Living a life aligned with your values is one of the most powerful ways to find and sustain meaning. When your actions, decisions, and goals are in harmony with your core beliefs, you create a sense of integrity and authenticity that resonates deeply within you.

But what does it mean to live in alignment with your values? It means making choices that reflect what you truly care about, even when those choices are difficult or unpopular. It means standing up for what you believe in, and letting those beliefs guide your path. It's about ensuring that your daily life—your work, your relationships, your hobbies—reflects the principles that matter most to you.

Living in alignment with your values isn't always easy. There may be times when external pressures, societal expectations, or even personal fears make it tempting to compromise. But staying true to your values, even in the face of challenges, leads to a deeper sense of fulfillment and peace. It's about creating a life that feels true to who you are, rather than one that's shaped by external forces.

To live a life aligned with your values, start by clearly identifying what those values are. Reflect on the principles that guide you, and consider how they can be more fully integrated into your life. Then, take intentional steps to align your actions with these values, whether it's through the work you choose, the way you interact with others, or the way you spend your time.

When you live in alignment with your values, you create a life that's not only meaningful but also deeply satisfying. It's a life where your actions reflect your true self, and where every choice brings you closer to a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

The search for meaning in life is not a destination, but a journey—one that is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected discoveries. It's a journey that requires patience, reflection, and a willingness to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances of our lives. Along the way, there will be challenges and moments of doubt, but it's through these experiences that we often find the most profound insights.

Embracing this journey means accepting that there may not be a single, clear answer to the question, “What is the point of living life?” Instead, it's about finding meaning in the everyday moments, in the connections we make, and in the ways we choose to live our lives. It's about understanding that purpose is not something we find once and hold onto forever; it's something that evolves with us as we grow and change.

As you continue on your journey, remember to stay true to your values, seek out the moments that bring you joy and fulfillment, and be open to the possibilities that life presents. Purpose isn't a fixed point on a map—it's the path you create as you navigate the world, guided by your passions, beliefs, and experiences. It's the journey itself, with all its ups and downs, that gives life its richness and meaning.

So, take a deep breath, embrace the uncertainty, and trust that as long as you're living with intention and authenticity, you're on the right path. The answers you seek may not always be clear, but the act of seeking them is what makes life truly meaningful.

Recommended Resources

• Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
• The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler
• The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
• The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck
• Existentialism is a Humanism by Jean-Paul Sartre