Existential Quote by Neil Strauss
““I think the existential dilemma is: We're social animals, so we all wrestle with a sense of inadequacy. But when we realize that we're not as inadequate as we thought we were, and when we realize that everybody else also thinks they're inadequate, then that ache goes away and the idea that we're not a person of value disappears to some extent.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Game, Neil Strauss, 2005
We feel inadequate because we compare ourselves socially; realizing everyone shares this insecurity eases self‑doubt and restores self‑worth.
In simple terms: Everyone feels insecure; knowing this reduces self‑doubt.
Key Takeaway
Accept shared insecurity, value yourself.
Themes
self‑esteem
social comparison
psychology
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- therapy
- public speaking
- teamwork
Key Concepts
existential anxiety
collective perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How does recognizing common insecurity change your self‑view?
- Can shared doubt foster empathy?
A Different Perspective
It may not fully eliminate deeper insecurities.
