Carpe diem, a Latin phrase that translates to “Seize the day,” is a philosophy that encourages people to make the most of every moment and to live life to the fullest.
This idea has become more relevant than ever in today’s fast-paced and competitive world.
College students are constantly bombarded with responsibilities, deadlines, and pressure to succeed.
But how do we balance our academic pursuits with the idea of carpe diem? Do our fellow students believe in this philosophy? Moreover, how does it compare to a larger fabric?
In this article, we explore the thoughts and opinions of college students, and others, on the concept of carpe diem and its relevance to their lives. We examine whether they embrace or dismiss this idea as a fleeting idealism.
Those carpe diem-ing:
Let’s delve into the minds of those surrounding us and see what they say about seizing the day.
Aslyn
One of the college students who shared their thoughts on carpe diem stated that they firmly believe that the only way to live the philosophy truly is to accept and embrace your current reality. Aslyn, an architecture student from the United States, said, “The only way to it is through it. You can’t escape your reality, so you might as well take the reins to steer yourself in the preferred direction.”
Sofia
One other student from IE expressed a more spontaneous approach to the philosophy. According to Sofia, “Sending that text to your crush, eating another slice of cake, wearing your favorite pair of flashy shoes two days in a row, planning a spontaneous trip – saying ‘f*ck it’ to everything!”
Maria
Maria Mustafa emphasized the importance of gratitude and having a productive mindset in her interpretation of carpe diem. She believes that seizing the day means waking up every day and being thankful for the gift of life, taking advantage of any opportunities that come your way, no matter how small. Maria emphasized that a productive day is not necessarily about how much you achieve but about your mindset and willingness to be open to life’s offerings.
Nilsu
Nilsu approached carpe diem from a creative perspective, citing the song “You’re Not Special Babe” by Orla Garland and the phrase “Will You Die With a Smile?” as her inspiration.
Derin
Derin’s approach to carpe diem is dancing fearlessly with her friends to her favorite tunes.
An anonymous perspective
An anonymous perspective on carpe diem centers around being present at the moment. The student said, “Seizing the day is more about being present than grasping opportunities. Opportunity is invisible to those that aren’t present.”
The 27-year-old male
Fear can be a driving force that keeps us alert and alive, encouraging us to take calculated risks and seize opportunities. The response from a 27-year-old male suggested that “fear keeps you alive” as he approached carpe diem from a more practical and cautious perspective. He argues that sometimes stepping out of our comfort zone and facing our fears is necessary to make the most of the day.
The 92-year-old
Another person, who is 92, said, “I know I did seize the day because I now have so many memories to remember. That makes me feel to this day feel grateful.”
Around the IE Segovia campus
Finally, I also asked around campus to a variety of people, including visitors, staff, and more students.
The responses ranged from “the feelings you run after in life to experience again” to “understanding, everything, as you know, can change in a second.”
From the perspective of intellectuals
Many intellectuals worldwide also have put their minds to understanding philosophy. For instance: “The future is something which everyone reaches at the rate of 60 minutes an hour, whatever he does, whoever he is,” said C.S. Lewis, a British writer and theologian who recognized the importance of living in the moment and not focusing too much on the future.
Or, “Carpe diem, quam minimum credula postero” – Roman poet Horace coined this famous phrase that translates to “Seize the day, put very little trust in tomorrow.”
It was clear that the idea of carpe diem means different things to different people, but at its core, it encourages individuals to live life to the fullest and take advantage of opportunities that come their way.
As college students, it is easy to get caught up in the pressures and responsibilities of our daily lives. Still, by embracing the philosophy of carpe diem, we can find joy and fulfillment in even the smallest moments.
To learn more on “how to carpe diem” and which mistakes not to make, read up on or listen to this article by Nick Riggle, published by Big Think.
How did/will you seize the day yesterday, today, and tomorrow?
