Individual Importance

June 14th, 2009

by John R. Sedivy

be first I have always regarded individuality as an important trait worth cultivating, however my awareness of it’s importance has increased in recent years. While reading “Man’s Search For Meaning” by Viktor Frankl I had encountered the following passage:

“This uniqueness and singleness which distinguishes each individual and gives a meaning to his existence has a bearing on creative work as much as it does on human love. When the impossibility of replacing a person is realized, it allows the responsibility which a man has for his existence and it continuance to appear in all its magnitude. A man who becomes conscious of the responsibility he bears towards a human being who affectionately waits for him, or to an unfinished work, will never be able to throw away his life. He knows the ‘why’ for his existence, and will be able to bear and ‘how.”

I believe that Viktor Frankl has put into words the essence of the importance of individuality. For those interested in further information on why and how, read my article “The Relationship Between Why & How”.

You Are Truly Unique
As the above passage states, you are truly unique, and it is impossible to replace you. The importance of your individuality cannot be overstated – you are important, as is your work as an individual. This has far reaching ramifications. Generally a person may find their identity through another person, a place of employment, or some other organization. Rarely does a person think in terms of their individuality. Because you are unique, that implies that you have a unique purpose that no other can fulfill – this should be considered outside of others.

What Is Your Individual Purpose?
This is often the tough part. Once an individual traverses the chasm of being a bit selfish and considering themselves for a moment outside of their external environment, the question must be answered of what unique purpose they are meant to fulfill. I believe that only you can answer this question. Nobody else may answer it, not a superior, spouse, relation, friend etc. They may assist of course, but the answer lies deep within you.

My recommendation is to find this by trial and error. Expose yourself to as many new experiences in as short amount of time as possible. What makes you feel good? What makes you feel badly? Adjust your path accordingly. Over time little corrections add to big adjustments – ultimately this will get you to where you want to be.

Keep It Safe
Be wary of those who devalue your individuality and ask you to cast it aside for the greater good. Your individuality should be cherished and guarded fiercely – if for no other reason than those stated by the opening quote from “Man’s Search For Meaning.” Safeguarding and cultivating your individuality will ultimately make you a happier person which in time will make those around you happier as well.

Discover the importance of your individuality and grow in new ways!

-John R. Sedivy of Cape Cod Branding