“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.

If I were to sum up the entirety of Dr. Viktor Frankl’s works, as I have come to understand them, and the idea that has had the most impact on me personally, it would be this quote.  No matter how difficult life becomes, no matter our circumstances, we always have the power to choose our attitudes towards how we will relate to the situation.  Attitudes, shape emotions, emotions motivate behavior, behavior creates change.  By choosing an attitude oriented toward discovering meaning, even in the most terrible of times, we can impact ourselves, our connections, our communities, our world.  Our attitudes shape our reality.  Choose meaningfully.

That idea is a powerful assertion about human resilience and autonomy. Frankl’s perspective, especially as detailed in his book Man’s Search for Meaning, emphasizes that even in the most dire and uncontrollable situations, like those he experienced in concentration camps, the inner freedom to choose one’s attitude and response remains intact.

This notion reflects several important concepts:

1. Autonomy and Control: Despite external circumstances that may be beyond our control, the ability to choose how we respond to them is a fundamental aspect of our autonomy. This inner choice can significantly impact our mental and emotional well-being.
2. Meaning and Purpose: Frankl argued that finding meaning in life, even amidst suffering, is crucial for psychological survival. By choosing how to perceive and react to situations, individuals can create a sense of purpose that helps them endure hardship.
3. Psychological Resilience: This idea suggests that psychological resilience is not solely about the absence of difficulties but about how one manages and interprets those difficulties. The freedom to decide one’s attitude can act as a buffer against despair and helplessness.
4. Existential Freedom: Frankl’s view aligns with existential philosophy, which posits that individuals are fundamentally free and responsible for their choices, regardless of external constraints. This freedom is seen as a core component of human existence.

In essence, this idea underscores that while we cannot always control our external circumstances, our internal response remains a domain where we retain power. It highlights the importance of attitude and perspective in shaping our experience of life, regardless of the obstacles we face.