Components Of Meaningful Existence

Aradhana Kaul Kathju1/31/2023Reviewed by Aradhana Kaul Kathju4 mins read
Components Of Meaningful Existence

Relationships are important for us all. They give us a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, love and belonging, and of course a purpose in life. ‘Man is a social animal’ is perhaps the most cliched statement ever, but its relevance is never going out of style. We have a primitive need to be part of a group, to be included and supported by our own kind. Needless to say, when this fails, we tend to break down, lose hope, and feel dejected. Our need for validation from an outer source is strong and perhaps unmatched by any other known species.

However, while this validation is much sought after and somehow justified too, it is also the likely cause of our everyday problems. As the dependence on this acceptance turns into an overdependence it shakes our very own confidence and our true source of power. When we give an outer being or entity so much power over us, in a manner we surrender to perceived superiority which may not be plausible. As a result, we may accept a wavering entity at a higher position than justified. This causes self-doubt that eventually may give rise to symptoms synonymous to anxiety.

 

                      

4 essential emotions:

The way out of this ruckus is simple. Recognize and appreciate 4 essential emotions to get your life in order and benefit. These emotions are strong individually and even stronger when combined. One may even take the risk of saying that these are the only emotions that matter, and you know what, love isn’t one of them.

First, learn to Trust yourself. No one knows you like you. You have been the best source of information on you. You are the expert in this subject. So, when you need to take advice, maybe it’s time to trust that gut instinct. Think about it, it’s all there for you to see.

Second, Prioritize yourself. Constantly putting yourself in the back seat won’t drive your car to the ideal destination. It is good to be selfless no doubt, but you need to remind yourself where you ought to be on your priority list too.

Third, Respect yourself. We all need feedback to grow and of course, constructive criticism is the best route there. But sometimes you know criticism can be harsh, and at most times unintentionally so. Choose well the source you intend to go to for this feedback. Someone who targets, insults, or ridicules you may not be the wisest choice. Instead, choose someone who shares not only success stories but also their struggles and failures.

Conclusion

Lastly, practice Gratitude. You can strive for all you want under the sun, but till the time you are not aware and thankful for what you already have and the value it gives your existence, you haven’t achieved anything yet.
While I mentioned that love wasn’t one of the 4 essential emotions, these do certainly combine to describe what we understand as self-love for sure. If you achieve this, you’ve really got something going.

Related Articles

Healing After Heartbreak: A Mental Health Perspective

Healing After Heartbreak: A Mental Health Perspective

Heartbreak doesn't just break your heart—it can shatter your sense of identity, peace, and purpose. Whether the end was expected or abrupt, mutual or one-sided, short-lived or long-term, the aftermath often leaves people emotionally disoriented. In Indian culture, where societal expectations and family involvement in romantic relationships are prevalent, the pain is not just personal—it is public. Yet, very few are taught how to heal from emotional loss in a healthy, sustainable way.

Aparajita
June 23, 20255 min read
Boundaries in Love: Saying ‘No’ Without Guilt

Boundaries in Love: Saying ‘No’ Without Guilt

Love, in its truest form, should be a safe space—a space where individuality is not only respected but celebrated. Yet, in many relationships, especially in the Indian cultural context, love is often misunderstood as constant availability, complete sacrifice, and putting the other person first, always. As noble as this may sound, this version of love often leads to emotional exhaustion, suppressed resentment, and the erosion of one’s identity.

Aparajita
June 20, 20255 min read
How Depression Can Affect Your Relationship—And What You Can Do

How Depression Can Affect Your Relationship—And What You Can Do

Depression is not just an internal struggle—it ripples outward, affecting relationships, routines, and the emotional fabric that holds people together. When someone is dealing with depression, it's not only their world that becomes dim—it can cast a shadow over their most intimate connections too. In a country like India, where open conversations about mental health are still rare and love is often equated with endurance, depression within a relationship can become invisible, misunderstood, or misjudged.

Aparajita
June 16, 20255 min read
When One Partner Struggles: Supporting Mental Health in Relationships

When One Partner Struggles: Supporting Mental Health in Relationships

Relationships are a beautiful blend of shared experiences, emotional growth, and mutual care. But they also come with challenges—especially when one partner is struggling with their mental health. In a society like India, where mental health is still heavily stigmatized, couples often find themselves ill-equipped to handle psychological distress in their relationship.

Aparajita
June 15, 20255 min read
Are You Really Listening? Improving Communication in Relationships

Are You Really Listening? Improving Communication in Relationships

Communication is the lifeline of every meaningful relationship. Yet, in countless homes—particularly across India—couples, friends, and families frequently experience breakdowns not due to a lack of words, but because of a lack of listening. We often equate speaking with communicating and hearing with understanding. But true communication involves something far deeper: active, empathetic, and intentional listening.

Aparajita
June 11, 20255 min read
Fighting Fair: How to Argue Without Breaking Your Bond — 5 Common Relationship Triggers and How to Manage Them

Fighting Fair: How to Argue Without Breaking Your Bond — 5 Common Relationship Triggers and How to Manage Them

Arguments are an inevitable part of every relationship. But in India, where relationships often extend beyond two individuals to entire families, traditions, and unspoken expectations, conflicts can feel even more overwhelming. How do you fight fair with your partner without damaging the love you’ve built?

Aparajita
June 09, 20255 min read