You Exist Before You Have Meaning

Philosophers argue that existence comes before essence. This means you first appear in the world as a blank slate and only define your purpose, qualities, and meaning through your actions later.

Unlike a manufactured tool designed with a specific purpose in mind, humans are born without a pre-written blueprint. You are not defined by labels or innate traits, but by the choices you make every single day. This concept suggests that you are the sole author of your own identity. It is a liberating idea because it implies that you are always free to change who you are.