Understanding Existential Intelligence: How to Foster It

Existential intelligence involves contemplating profound questions regarding human existence. This form of intellect defies easy quantification and revolves around introspective concepts such as deep reflection and the capacity to conceive or deconstruct abstract theories. Individuals with a propensity for pondering ideas like the purpose of life, the nature of mortality, or the origins of the universe or humanity may possess heightened existential intelligence (EI).

• Existential intelligence is sometimes referred to as spiritual intelligence due to its focus on existential inquiries concerning life, death, and transcendence.

EI is a component of the Multiple Intelligences theory. This theory, introduced by Harvard professor Howard Gardner, Ph.D. in 1983, outlines nine distinct intelligences that encapsulate humans' innate learning predispositions and interactions with the environment. Initially comprising six types and later expanded, the theory aims to explore diverse educational approaches. Alongside existential intelligence, the other eight intelligences include:

• Verbal-linguistic intelligence: proficiency in language usage and sensitivity to linguistic nuances and rhythms.
• Logical-mathematical intelligence: adeptness in abstract conceptualization and logical and numerical pattern recognition.
• Spatial-visual intelligence: proficiency in visual thinking, accurate visualization, and abstract imagery comprehension.
• Bodily-kinesthetic intelligence: mastery in bodily coordination and skilled object manipulation.
• Musical intelligence: competence in rhythm, pitch, and timbre appreciation and production.
• Interpersonal intelligence: adeptness in discerning and responding to others' emotions, motivations, and desires.
• Intrapersonal intelligence: self-awareness and alignment with inner emotions, values, beliefs, and cognitive processes.
• Naturalist intelligence: proficiency in recognizing and categorizing elements of the natural world.

Engagement with Existential Matters Individuals with existential intelligence derive satisfaction from pondering profound concepts such as the origins of life, the essence of mortality, or humanity's purpose on Earth. Leveraging their advanced abstract and profound reasoning capabilities, they seek answers to the question 'why?'

• Conversely, those with EI often show disinterest in conventional societal norms, recreational pursuits, or materialistic pursuits.
• For instance, both adults and children exhibiting high existential intelligence may find solace in documenting their deep ruminations or engaging in conversations about abstract concepts like love, morality, or the human condition.
• Children demonstrating elevated existential intelligence may pose questions such as 'Where do we go after death?', 'How are babies born?', 'Why do numbers exist?', or even 'What is the purpose of education?'

Perception from a Profound Perspective Individuals with EI delve into realms beyond the tangible universe, seeking meaning that transcends mere physicality. They strive to integrate all facets of existence, including spiritual and energetic dimensions often overlooked by strictly rational viewpoints.

• Existentially intelligent individuals maintain a keen interest in spiritual wisdom and practices, enriching their comprehension of both themselves and others within the grand tapestry of existence. They embody a holistic outlook, transcending sensory limitations to comprehend the world's complexities.
• For instance, those with EI might champion causes such as pacifism or animal rights, viewing all life forms as integral components of an interconnected whole.

Advocacy for Universal, Positive Principles Individuals with existential intelligence uphold values like peace, love, wisdom, goodness, truth, and harmony, both in personal conduct and communal endeavors. They adhere to these principles while actively discouraging attitudes detrimental to human welfare, such as egotism, envy, exploitation, and hostility.

• When confronted with conflict or disagreement, individuals with high EI advocate for deliberation and comprehensive consideration of all viewpoints before seeking resolution. They eschew violence, aggression, or blame, opting instead for assertiveness, integrity, and mutual respect.

Commitment to Service Individuals with EI reject self-absorption, striving instead to aid marginalized or less fortunate individuals. They may engage in frequent volunteer work, contribute to charitable causes, or pursue careers that center on assisting others, such as psychology, education, spiritual leadership, or wellness instruction.

• For instance, children displaying existential intelligence often exhibit a strong desire to support and nurture their peers, care for animals, or participate in philanthropic activities.
• Highly EI individuals typically align themselves with collective efforts, prioritizing communal well-being over personal gratification.

Prioritization of Self-Care Individuals with EI perceive their bodies as vessels for the soul, embracing practices that nurture holistic well-being. They prioritize self-care rituals, embracing healthy habits, regular exercise, and balanced nutrition. Additionally, they allocate time for leisure and creative pursuits, recognizing the importance of maintaining a harmonious work-life balance to prevent burnout.

Embrace Deep Contemplation or Meditation. Engaging in profound reflection or meditative practices enables you to delve into your innermost self, your emotions, and your interpersonal connections. Consider journaling to express your innermost thoughts without inhibition or pursuing stillness in a tranquil environment for meditation—allow your thoughts to wander freely and uncover profound insights.

• Cultivate a routine of contemplative activities, integrating them into your daily regimen to attune yourself to your deepest sentiments and reflections.
• To foster EI in children, encourage them to ponder 'big picture' inquiries in simple language, such as 'why do we exist?' or 'what is the meaning of life?' Prompt them to articulate their thoughts through writing or verbal expression.

Prioritize Healthy Self-Care Practices. Strengthening the connection between mind and body fosters an awareness of the interconnectedness of the visible and unseen realms. Commit to regular physical activity, adopt a nutritious diet, and allocate time for leisure pursuits that bring joy or fulfillment. As your physical well-being flourishes, so does your mental and spiritual health.

• Immerse yourself in nature to reconnect with natural surroundings, appreciate diverse life forms, and enhance your psychological well-being. Encouraging children to engage in nature-based self-care activities, like short hikes or forest walks, strengthens their EI.

Foster Profound Conversations with Loved Ones. Share your insights and engage in discussions on existential themes, such as the afterlife, the role of spirituality in human existence, or humanity's significance in the cosmos. Consider exploring the perspectives of various philosophers to enrich your dialogues.

• These meaningful exchanges broaden your perspective and cultivate open-mindedness towards diverse viewpoints and life experiences.

Contribute to Community Service. Extending assistance to others and transcending self-centeredness heightens your awareness of global interconnectedness. Volunteer at local community centers or charitable organizations, foster animals from nearby shelters, or advocate for initiatives that positively impact your community and support vulnerable individuals.

Nurture Your Creative Aptitude. Engaging in creative endeavors, such as writing or music composition, offers alternative perspectives and unveils profound truths about yourself and the world. To enhance your creative prowess, embrace curiosity and draw inspiration from diverse sources, art forms, and media. Dedicate time each day to pursue artistic endeavors, whether learning a musical instrument or experimenting with painting.

• Cultivating creativity proves beneficial in everyday life and professional endeavors, enhancing your existential intelligence.
• To encourage children's existential creativity, introduce activities like puzzles, historical games elucidating cause-and-effect relationships, or multilingual storytelling (if they comprehend multiple languages).

Professions Ideal for Those with EI encompass roles demanding empathy and profound introspection. While job listings may not explicitly mention 'deep contemplation,' numerous career avenues necessitate individuals to demonstrate empathy and sensitivity while grappling with existential inquiries regarding human existence, life's purpose, mortality, or the origins of humanity. Such occupations include but are not limited to:

• Minister
• Yoga or mindfulness instructor
• Intuitive advisor
• Therapist
• Spiritual counselor
• Public or inspirational speaker
• Philosopher or theologian
• Clinical psychologist
• Educator
• Research scientist