Sophocles: 'It is best to live however one can be.'

It is best to live however one can be.

In Sophocles' famous quote, "It is best to live however one can be," we are confronted with a profound insight into the ways in which we approach life. At its core, this quote urges us to embrace individuality and live authentically, according to our own values and beliefs. It emphasizes the importance of being true to ourselves rather than conforming to societal expectations or trying to please others. This message resonates strongly in a world where societal pressure and external influences often dictate how we should live our lives.By suggesting that it is best to live however one can be, Sophocles raises a fundamental question: What does it mean to be oneself? To answer this question, we can delve into the realm of philosophy and explore the concept of existentialism. Existentialism posits that individuals have free will and are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in life.Existential philosophers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus, argue that existence precedes essence, meaning that we exist first and then define who we are through our actions and choices. This perspective aligns with Sophocles' quote, as it encourages us to live in a way that is true to ourselves, not allowing external factors to define our identity or determine our path.However, one might argue that living according to our own terms is easier said than done. Society often imposes norms and expectations that exert significant pressure on individuals to conform. We are expected to follow certain career paths, adhere to cultural and societal norms, and meet predetermined milestones. This conformity, while comforting for some, can stifle personal growth and limit our potential for self-fulfillment.Furthermore, the pressure to conform often leads to the comparison of one's life with others, resulting in feelings of inadequacy and a sense of not living up to societal standards. However, living in accordance with Sophocles' quote presents an alternative approach. It invites us to focus on our own unique journey and to prioritize self-acceptance and self-discovery.Living authentically requires self-reflection, introspection, and the courage to chart our own course. It involves embracing our strengths, passions, and values, regardless of how they may differ from societal expectations. By doing so, we not only live a life that is true to ourselves but also inspire others to do the same.To illustrate the value of living however one can be, let us consider the life of an individual who wholeheartedly embraces this philosophy. Let's call him Alex. Alex has always had an unconventional approach to life. Rejecting societal conventions and expectations, Alex pursues a career in a non-traditional field that aligns with his passion for the arts. Despite encountering skepticism from family and friends, Alex remains steadfast, confident in his choice to live authentically.As Alex carves his own path, he encounters challenges and setbacks, but also experiences unparalleled fulfillment and a deep sense of purpose. He discovers that by disregarding societal pressures, he opens himself up to infinite possibilities, creative expression, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on others.In contrast, imagine a hypothetical individual named Sam, who chooses to conform to societal expectations and follows a traditional career path. Sam may feel a sense of security and acceptance from others, but ultimately may struggle with dissatisfaction, as their chosen path does not align with their true desires and passions.By comparing these two scenarios, we can see the contrasting outcomes that arise from living in accordance with one's authentic self and succumbing to societal pressures. While living according to one's own terms may be fraught with uncertainties and challenges, it offers the potential for fulfillment, personal growth, and a life lived in alignment with one's core values.In essence, Sophocles' quote serves as a reminder that life is too precious and fleeting to be lived according to others' expectations. It invites us to introspect and understand what brings us joy, purpose, and fulfillment. Embracing our individuality allows us to unleash our true potential, paving the way for a more meaningful and fulfilling existence.In conclusion, Sophocles' quote, "It is best to live however one can be", implores us to live true to ourselves, disregarding societal pressures and expectations. It encourages us to embrace our individuality and pursue a life that aligns with our passions, values, and aspirations. By comparing this philosophy with the concept of existentialism, we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of living authentically. So, let us embark on a journey of self-discovery, embracing our uniqueness, and paving our own paths to a life well-lived.