From existential thought to existential wellness

This chapter traces the movement from existential philosophy to the emerging practice of existential wellness coaching. It begins by acknowledging the ambitious, often daunting demands of existential thought, which challenge individuals to live authentically, embrace freedom, and confront the void of meaninglessness with dignity and personal responsibility. The discussion highlights why existentialism, despite its brilliance, never became a widespread philosophy: its high ethical bar and rigorous demands proved difficult for most people to sustain in daily life. Yet the chapter argues that existential ideas remain vital in the modern world, especially in the face of meaninglessness, purposelessness, and existential anxiety. Drawing on historical reflections and personal testimonies, it illustrates how individuals are increasingly returning to existential questions of meaning, purpose, and authenticity. The chapter introduces existential wellness coaching as a practical, contemporary response to these challenges. Through a “fanciful” coaching vignette, it demonstrates how existential concepts—such as meaning-making, life purpose choices, and personality models—can be applied in supportive, accessible ways. Ultimately, the chapter proposes that existential wellness coaching offers a way to modernize and humanize existential thought, making it relevant and useful to people seeking authenticity, resilience, and clarity in their lives.