Many in our society have become nihilists, no more so than among young men. With faith in nothing and no coherent philosophy of life, they form online warrior communities. They lash out against institutions, discuss conspiracy theories as if fact, and form a haphazard amalgam of philosophies that are more anarchist than distinctly right/left-wing.
The overt problem: most of these nihilists are not successful.
The more important problem: most are not happy and never will be unless they derive meaning.
“Meaning in life” seems like such a complex topic.
It need not be. Many happy people may never have even articulated their philosophical views on the meaning of life. But if pressed, they might say some combination of “happy family”, “faith” (or whatever spiritual view they have) and “good work” (either enjoyable or purposeful or both).
Regardless, what one does most of the day usually involves “work”.
That most drift into meaningless work is a major factor leading to unhappiness.
I’ve written three books. The above is my favorite because it’s the most authentic.
Those who are “seekers” tell me it made a difference in their lives.
That’s meaningful to me and “making a difference” was part of my stated meaning of life when I was a young man. It still is.