Embracing Immersion: Finding Meaning in Work and Life

source: https://snl.no/Harriet_Backer

Have you ever wondered what makes life worth living? It’s a question that often arises as we navigate the complexities of adulthood.

Karl Ove Knausgard beautifully captures the essence of this inquiry in his book “Autumn”: “What makes life worth living? No child asks itself that question. To children life is self-evident. Life goes without saying: whether it is good or bad makes no difference. This is because children don’t see the world, don’t observe the world, don’t contemplate the world, but are so deeply immersed in the world that they don’t distinguish between it and their own selves.”

This quote resonated with me, prompting reflections on the moments when life feels most vibrant, purposeful, and fulfilling. I’ve come to realize that much like children immersed in the world around them, the key lies in being fully engaged and absorbed in what we do.

For me, this immersion is most apparent in the world of entrepreneurial ventures. Building something from the ground up demands your complete attention, dedication, and passion. It’s not just a job; it’s a journey, a process of creation that extends beyond the boundaries of a 9-to-5 routine.

When you’re immersed in developing a startup, every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth, every setback a lesson to be learned. The sense of purpose derived from building something that is more significant than oneself is unparalleled. It’s about contributing to a collective vision, a shared goal that extends far beyond individual aspirations.

Even in the face of failure, the experience gained is invaluable. The potential to include and shape the paths of others along the way is a powerful motivator.

A failed startup is not just a venture that didn’t succeed; it’s a collection of experiences, connections, and lessons that can pave the way for future success.

In the world of startups, you’re not just an observer; you are an active participant in the shaping of something meaningful. The immersion is so complete that the distinction between the venture and your own self blurs, much like the way children seamlessly integrate with their surroundings.

So, does immersing yourself in the creation of a startup make life worth living? Absolutely. It’s about more than just financial success; it’s about the journey, the people you meet, the challenges you overcome, and the impact you have on the world around you.

In the end, life is about finding meaning and purpose in the everyday moments, about being fully present and engaged. Whether it’s in the world of startups or any other endeavor, the magic happens when you immerse yourself completely, losing the boundaries between your work and your life, and finding profound satisfaction in the process of creation.