Positive anxiety: existential authenticity as a pathway to well-being

Heidegger’s concept of Dasein posits that authentic living, rooted in deep awareness of one’s existence, is essential for human well-being. However, anxiety–particularly existential dread–often hinders authenticity by confronting individuals with uncertainty and vulnerability, prompting them to adopt inauthentic ways of being to maintain an illusion of control. Our research expands on Heidegger’s theory by exploring transformative life experiences (TLEs) and their role in fostering existential authenticity. We examine how the existential dread triggered during TLEs, when core beliefs are challenged, can paradoxically lead to a more authentic existence. While initially distressing, this confrontation with potentiality opens new ways of interpreting reality, facilitating personal growth and enhancing well-being. By embracing the anxiety inherent in TLEs, individuals may discover new pathways to personal growth, meaning, and well-being. This paper presents findings on TLEs and existential authenticity, discusses their implications, and offers a theoretical model that synthesizes these concepts while pointing to directions for future research and practical applications.