Throughout times in my life, I find myself frequently looking at life through an existential lens. I tend to get lost in all the noise of overthinking and stressing about inevitable, human experiences. 

But suddenly, all the noise was silent as I watched the movie, “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” This movie was one of the many that dove into the meaning of the phrase “nothing matters.” 

The main character learns to let go of what could’ve been and found meaning in the life she has now. 

The movie shattered the presumed definition of the phrase, and gave it a whole new light. It shows that one should live their life to the fullest because of the fact that nothing matters. 

“Nothing matters” is presented as a term with a double meaning that represents both hopefulness and hopelessness. 

Typically, the term “nothing matters” is viewed from a negative perspective. This side can represent the concept of life being pointless or empty. People often think if nothing matters, then why search for purpose or significance in your existence?

On the other hand, the positive side of this phrase is that life is worthwhile, hopeful and fulfilling. Life can feel dull or hopeless, but then again, nothing matters. 

Philosopher Albert Camus said, “If we believe in nothing, if nothing has any meaning and if we can affirm no values whatsoever, then everything is possible and nothing has any importance.”

This two-sided perspective is a freeing epiphany. Anyone has the ability to create their own meaning and purpose to life. 

Hopelessness can feel like nothing matters, but surprisingly, hopefulness can also feel that way too. 

The phrase will always remain the same, but the perspective you take with the expression is the true importance.