Life as an Act of Will

In the third post of this blog series, we are discussing the notion of humans as beings driven by intention and desire, or as some philosophers have called it, “Homo volens.” This concept emphasizes our capacity for volition and choice. While we are also creatures of consumption and creation, our ability to will is fundamental to being human.

This blog post explores the proactive and intentional nature of living, which aligns with the themes discussed in this series, particularly the aspects of human agency, responsibility, and the drive for self-realization. It invites us to consider life as a purposeful journey. It invites us to reclaim our innate ability to will our actions, futures, and destinies.

“Homo volens” is not about fleeting wishes. It’s about the deep-seated desires and intentions that drive our passions and often set the course for our life’s trajectory. The implications of this concept in our understanding of human nature are profound. At its core, it highlights the significant influence of intention and desire in shaping our existence.

This volitional dimension of human nature underscores the drive to ascend beyond our current situations. This urge propels us towards personal growth, continuous learning, and an unending quest for self-realization. Such a trajectory is a testament to our relentless pursuit of improvement. From an ethical standpoint, the emphasis on intentionality amplifies the weight of our moral responsibilities. Every action, every decision isn’t just a response to the world around us, but a direct manifestation of our inner will.

When we consider the societal forces pushing us to become passive consumers, the concept of “Homo volens” offers a counter-narrative to the prevalence of consumerism. At its heart, embracing our identity as volitional creatures is about reclaiming the power of active choice. It compels us to reflect on our true desires, rather than blindly adhering to what society dictates we should want. Such an approach stands in contrast to the ever-shifting wishes grown out of the continuous bombardment of commercials to which we are subject.

While consumerism emphasizes the possession of materialistic assets, our deep desires shift our focus to the intangible aspects of life, such as nurturing relationships, personal growth, and purpose. These intangibles offer a deeper, more lasting satisfaction.

In a world filled with needs created by commercials, there is a call for authenticity within the perspective of “Homo volens.” By actively determining our destiny, we align more authentically with our intrinsic selves, becoming less susceptible to the fleeting trends society presents. Our volitional dimension positions us not just as consumers, but as sculptors of our lives. In this sense, we become individuals occupied with forging meaningful relationships and actively contributing to our communities.

But how can we apply this concept to our daily lives? Here are a few actionable tips:

1. Setting Clear Intentions: Recognize the power of will and intentionality. Start by setting clear intentions for your actions. Instead of chasing new trends, chart your course deliberately. A simple way of trying this is creating a morning ritual: Start each day by setting a clear intention. Ask yourself: “What do I truly want to achieve or feel today?”

2. Seek Continuous Growth: The “will to become” is strong in every human. Instead of remaining static, always look for ways to grow, learn, and evolve. One way of educating ourselves is delving into books, articles, or courses on intentionality, responsibility, and related subjects.

3. Embrace Responsibility: Taking ownership of our actions, both good and bad, empowers us. It helps us in cultivating a sense of purpose. It also challenges us to learn to say no. If something doesn’t align with our intentions and values, it’s okay to decline.

4. Foster Community: Seek out or create a group that shares similar intentions, whether it is a book club, fitness group, or meditation circle. Set goals with friends or family members. Mutual accountability can strengthen intentions.

5. Practice Reflective Thinking: Reflect to understand your desires better. Reflective thinking helps in fine-tuning your intentions and actions, ensuring they are aligned with your life’s goals. Reflect on recent choices. Did they align with your intentions? Celebrate successes and adjust where needed.

Embracing the essence of “Homo volens” is a transformative journey. It is about recognizing our power to shape our existences actively. By cultivating intention and aligning our actions with our values, we can lead lives of profound purpose and fulfillment.

The concept of “Homo volens” serves as light in the haze of passive consumerism. It reminds us of the power of will intrinsic to the human condition. By understanding and embracing this facet of our existence, we can find potent tools to enhance our life’s quality and contribute to the world around us.

Until next time, when we will share the fourth post of this series: “Life as an Act of Play.”