“Our life always expresses the result of our dominant thoughts.”
- May 5, 1813 – November 11, 1855
- Danish
- Philosopher, Theologian, Poet, Father of Existentialism
table of contents
Quote
“Our life always expresses the result of our dominant thoughts.”
Explanation
This quote reveals Kierkegaard’s insight into the power of thought in shaping human existence. What we consistently think about—whether consciously or unconsciously—influences our actions, habits, and ultimately our character. If fear, pride, or despair dominate our inner world, these will manifest outwardly in how we live. Conversely, if love, courage, or faith govern our thoughts, our lives will reflect these virtues. The mind, then, is not neutral but formative.
Though often associated with 20th-century ideas like cognitive behavioral therapy or the “law of attraction,” Kierkegaard’s version is deeply existential and ethical. He believed that individuals are called to live deliberately, with inward awareness and responsibility. In his Christian framework, faith is not merely belief—it involves choosing thoughts that elevate the self toward truth and God, resisting despair or apathy which can otherwise dominate one’s inner life.
This quote is especially relevant today in an age of information overload and distraction. What we allow to occupy our attention—social media, negative self-talk, unresolved fears—can unconsciously shape our choices and our worldview. Kierkegaard’s challenge is timeless: to guard and guide our thoughts, because they are not idle—they are the foundation of who we become.
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