Different people follow the Carpe Diem approach in different ways. One approach is for them to set specific goals, do satisfying things and, when appropriate, do their best to achieve success.
There are, however, many different views about what Carpe Diem means. During ancient times it sometimes meant taking the opportunity to do pleasurable things.
Roman Krznaric describes how the phrase has been interpreted over more than the past 2,000 years. Writing in his book Carpe Regained: The Vanishing Art Of Seizing The Day, he explains this in the following way.
There are different ways to thinking about it, from seizing opportunities, to spontaneity, to hedonism, to being in the present moment; as well as a collective political form of carpe diem.
They’re all different ways of having agency in the face of death, of feeling that you’re fully alive.
Different people may set aside time – and seize the day – to do different activities. Some may do what they enjoy. Some may simply potter around. Some may immerse themselves in doing creative projects. Some may do activities where they go into a state of flow.
Some driven people follow the approach with a sense of urgency. Looking ahead to the day, they may set stimulating goals. They may then stretch themselves, find solutions to challenges and aim reach their chosen summit.
As mentioned earlier, one approach is to set goals. These may simply be to enjoy the day or be more specific. The next step may be to do satisfying things. Sometimes it may also involve doing your best to achieve your picture of success.
Let’s return to your own life and work. Looking ahead, can you think of a situation where you may want to follow elements of this approach? How can you do this in your own way?
If you wish, try tackling the exercise on this theme. This invites you to complete the following sentences.
Leave a Reply