In different eras, the concept of freedom was interpreted differently. In religious thought, a person is subordinate to God's will, and his actions should be consistent with Scripture, spiritual authority. Hence the concept of freedom as "conscious necessity." Today, living primarily in the secular world, people have received genuine will. However, it in itself is not an easy burden, because freedom is a choice, and for each decision made it is necessary to take responsibility.
Instruction manual
one
Sometimes the reason for deep personal experiences is precisely this side of freedom: sometimes the fear of a decision completely paralyzes a person’s will. This is the main pathos of the philosophy of existentialism: freedom is a dubious gift, but a strong, respectable person accepts it. Therefore, J.-P. Sartre argues that "a person is doomed to freedom" - this is the essence of his nature, which must be followed if you want to bear the proud name of a person.
2
This is easy to see in the examples: you have a choice, do the work today or put it off until tomorrow. There are a lot of things that will give more pleasure than the performance of their duties, but the tasks set will not go anywhere, and the time for their implementation will decrease and anxiety in the soul will increase. Everyone is free to choose: to do hard work for a smaller fee or to receive a modest salary without much straining. You have the opportunity to completely refuse to work, but then there will be nothing to pay for housing and to provide other needs. In this case, you will have to look for a breadwinner or sell something. And so to infinity - consciously or subconsciously, decisions have to be made constantly.
3
The philosopher and psychologist Erich Fromm in his “Creed” states: “The unfortunate fate of many people is a consequence of their unfulfilled choice. They are neither living nor dead. Life is a burden, an aimless pursuit.” Being at a crossroads, it is worth taking the liberty to make a choice, to decide. Trying to change something in your life is more worthy than inaction.
note
The excitement before making important decisions is natural. But never should it turn into a panic, leading to a stupor.
Useful advice
When to make a choice:
- Learn reliable information on a topic of interest;
- think over the consequences of all possible options;
- consult with a person whom you trust;
- make a decision with a fresh mind.