Viktor Frankl and Man’s Search for Meaning: Finding purpose in the contemporary world

I read Viktor Frankl’s magnum opus, Man’s Search for Meaning, a few years back, but the true essence of the book reflected upon me when I actually visited Dachau Camp Memorial during the summer this year. What really intrigued me was that even in the depths of despair, Frankl was still curious and searching for meaning in life.

Through the day-to-day activities of the camp, he observed that the prisoners who found a sense of purpose in their lives were more likely to survive. Having a purpose or meaning allowed them to maintain hope, which gave them the strength to persevere through overwhelming adversity. This realisation laid the foundation for his monumental work on logotherapy and his book Man's Search for Meaning.

The meaning of life is 'real and concreate'

What especially resonates with me is when he writes, "life does not mean anything vague, but something very real and concrete." He emphasises that the meaning of life is found in specific, tangible experiences, actions, and responsibilities rather than in abstract ideas. He believed that even in the most desperate conditions, individuals can find meaning through:

Work: Prisoners found a reason to survive by focusing on future goals or unfinished work, such as reconstructing a lost manuscript, finishing a painting, or even imagining teaching their son how to ride a bike. These goals gave them a sense of purpose, which provided the strength they needed to keep going.

Love: Prisoners found meaning by focusing on love, beauty, or cherished memories. This might be the love they felt for their family, the memory of a beautiful sunset, or recalling an artistic performance they once enjoyed. These connections helped them feel linked to something greater than themselves, giving them a deep source of inner strength.

Suffering: Prisoners could find meaning by choosing how they responded to their suffering. Some found purpose in their pain by focusing on personal growth, showing empathy for others, or committing to a cause. Frankl shares the story of a fellow prisoner who, even as he neared death, spent his final days comforting others and expressing gratitude for small acts of kindness. Through this, he found dignity and purpose in his suffering.

What amazes me is how relevant this remains after 70+ years, both from the perspective of an individual professional and an organisation. Let’s look at all three points and how we can use these learnings on a daily basis to live a more meaningful and, therefore, more fulfilled life.

Read More: The quest for meaningful work

Focus on your contribution, not unmet desires

This is a world in continuous motion, and we have to navigate the surprises that are not in our control. What if we ask the question, "What is life expecting of me?" instead of "What do I expect from life?" This shift was a phenomenal realisation for me. It helps us focus on our responsibilities, contributions, and the meaningful roles we play, rather than on unmet desires or external rewards. In line with Frankl’s words, something very real and concrete and not vague.

This immediately helped me focus on the larger purpose, increasing the chances of fulfilment and driving higher levels of motivation. I have seen some of the great coaches start with the question, "What is it that you want to achieve in life?" not now, not in one year, but what do you think you have to contribute to life?

The point is, are we ready to invest the kind of time and energy these conversations require as individuals, managers, or leaders?

As organisations, the best companies are those that put meaning at the centre of their work and culture. Leaders or organisations that articulate a clear and compelling vision provide a roadmap that guides their team through uncertainty and challenges.

Aligning individual goals with organisational objectives ensures that employees understand how their contributions drive the broader success of the company. Surprisingly, it almost seems like going back to the fundamentals.

For example, I came across companies with a strong focus on sustainability that went to the extent of aligning their mission with the personal values of each employee, fostering a deep sense of purpose and commitment. It’s all about thinking about the legacy you want to leave, both as an individual and as an organisation.

Read More: There's a right way to fail, says Amy Edmondson

Value relationships and experiences that enrich you

Now, coming to the second point, which is about valuing relationships and experiences. It’s not difficult at all to identify the people or experiences that matter. Simply ask yourself these questions: Who inspires me? Who can I reach out to when I feel depleted? What experiences bring me joy?

Cultivate these relationships and seek out experiences that enrich your life. Also, ensure that you are fully present to appreciate them. These meaningful connections and experiences are all around us; we just need to take clear note of them.

Organisations also need to provide opportunities to foster meaningful connections. Create spaces where employees can build supportive relationships through mentoring programmes, sponsorships, peer learning opportunities, and the like.

I was with a startup where there was tremendous pressure on resources, yet we formed clubs with a leader as a sponsor for each one. The traction we gained in just one year was phenomenal.

See challenges as opportunities for growth and resilience

Finally, the point on attitude towards suffering – for me, this was the toughest to assimilate. Frankl says, "A man’s suffering is similar to the behaviour of gas; if a certain quantity of gas is pumped into an empty chamber, it will fill it completely, irrespective of the size." Similarly, suffering fills the human soul, no matter whether the suffering is great or small. In the same way, a very trifling thing can cause the greatest of joys.

Drawing from my coaching experience, what comes to mind is adopting a constructive attitude towards challenges by asking, "How can I grow from this experience?" and "What can I learn from this setback?" See challenges as opportunities for personal growth and resilience. Finally, practise self-compassion by being kind to yourself during tough times, allowing space for reflection and learning.

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For organisations, it's essential to promote a culture of resilience and growth, with the understanding that culture flows from the top. Provide support systems and resources to help employees navigate stress and adversity. To complete this effort, leaders must lead by example, demonstrating resilience in their own actions and decisions. By doing so, they set the tone for a strong and adaptable culture.

While Frankl's experiences in the concentration camps may seem far removed from the challenges of modern life, his insights and wisdom remain highly relevant and applicable.

In an age of increasing automation, technology, and the potential for an existential vacuum, Frankl's emphasis on the importance of finding meaning and purpose is more crucial than ever: “He who has a why to live for can bear with almost any how.”