Viktor Frankl was a psychiatrist, neurologist, and a Holocaust survivor. He wrote a book called Man's Search for Meaning, which I recently read. It is a very detailed, astounding, and confronting book with a firsthand account of the atrocities that were committed during this time. Reading the first half of the book was quite difficult for me, as I felt like skipping the confronting sections meant it didn't happen, which is crazy. Some of the graphic images of misery, despair, and pure evil created a deafening silence within my mind about the world that could be. It was a deep and profound realization of human destruction and a grave warning for the potential demise of our own species.

However, in the face of this suffering and adversity, Viktor found meaning and purpose. He created a psychology framework called Logotherapy. Logotherapy puts great emphasis on finding meaning in life and embracing personal responsibility. The framework takes the view that each person has a unique purpose and potential for growth, and that throughout any adversity or suffering, there can be an opportunity to find growth, purpose, and meaning, which can lead to a deeper sense of happiness. The perspective outlines the idea that happiness is not solely dependent on external factors, but on each person's ability to find meaning and purpose in all of their experiences.

Another foundational aspect of Logotherapy focuses on the idea of social connection and being part of a community. Frankl believed that meaningful relationships and a sense of community are essential for humans. By creating deep connections with others and performing acts of kindness and compassion, people can experience a deep sense of fulfillment and happiness. Logotherapy highlights the important part love and compassion play in emotional well-being and encourages individuals to prioritize these aspects in their lives.

This physiological framework promotes happiness by emphasizing the search for meaning and purpose in life. By connecting with our inner consciousness, taking personal responsibility, embracing suffering as opportunities for growth, and nurturing deep connections, individuals can experience a greater form of happiness.

I think there’s a significant lesson here for everyone, as if someone who was subject to one of the most horrific tragedies in history was able to find resolve and establish a positive outlook from such a negative experience that we can all find lessons within all of our own experiences. No matter how deep the suffering, there can be potential for lessons that can lead to happiness.

Logotherapy offers valuable tools and insights for individuals trying to find deeper meaning and fulfilment in their lives. I think the framework can contribute both in reflection of our own personal beliefs and experiences but a directional support in the search for happiness.

“Man does not simply exist but always decides what his existence will be, what he will become the next moment, by the same token, every human being has the freedom to change at any instant” - Viktor Frankl

Thanks,

Dean