Nelson Mandela: 'I have retired, but if there's anything that would kill me it is to wake up in the morning not knowing what to do.'

I have retired, but if there's anything that would kill me it is to wake up in the morning not knowing what to do.

Nelson Mandela once said, "I have retired, but if there's anything that would kill me it is to wake up in the morning not knowing what to do." This quote encapsulates the essence of a purposeful and fulfilling life. The straightforward interpretation of this quote is that Mandela, even after retiring from his political career, would find himself trapped in unhappiness and disappointment if he lost a sense of purpose. It speaks to the significance of having a clear direction in life, even in the absence of formal obligations or responsibilities.However, let us delve into a more unexpected philosophical concept that adds depth and intrigue to Mandela's quote. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 19th century, explores human existence and the meaning of life. According to existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, individuals are responsible for creating their own purpose in life as opposed to seeking predetermined meaning from external sources, such as religion or societal expectations.Mandela's quote aligns with this existentialist perspective. The idea that waking up without knowing what to do would be detrimental to his well-being suggests that for Mandela, personal agency and a self-made purpose were crucial for a meaningful life. Rather than waiting for external circumstances to dictate his satisfaction, he recognized the importance of proactively engaging in experiences and pursuits that would provide him with a sense of fulfillment and purpose.In comparing the straightforward interpretation of Mandela's quote with the existentialist perspective, we can observe several key similarities. Both emphasize the need for individuals to actively seek out and determine their own purpose in life. Whether through pursuing passions, engaging in meaningful activities, or contributing to a larger cause, the underlying message remains the same. It is essential to have a sense of purpose and direction to lead a fulfilling and contented life.At the same time, there are nuances to consider in both interpretations. While Mandela's quote suggests an urgency to avoid the emptiness of purposelessness, existentialism, on the other hand, encourages individuals to embrace the ambiguity and uncertainty of existence. According to existentialist thought, finding meaning in life is a constant and ongoing process that requires individuals to navigate through the complexities of existence.Mandela's straightforward interpretation, while resonating with many people, may overlook the inherent challenges and contradictions that come with the search for purpose. It is in the recognition and acceptance of these challenges that existentialism offers a unique perspective. Rather than fearing the unknown, existentialism calls for individuals to embrace the unpredictability and embrace the possibility of discovering new paths and purposes throughout their lives.In conclusion, Nelson Mandela's quote, "I have retired, but if there's anything that would kill me it is to wake up in the morning not knowing what to do," captures the essence of a purposeful and meaningful existence. It highlights the importance of actively seeking out personal fulfillment and direction in life, even in the absence of formal obligations or responsibilities. When viewed through the lens of existentialism, it becomes evident that finding purpose is a continuous and individual journey, intertwined with the uncertainties and complexities of existence. By recognizing the need to actively engage in experiences and pursue passions, individuals can cultivate a life of meaning and contentment.