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The unnarrated self: Meaning and motivation without self-stories
1HEC Paris.
The American Psychologist
|December 15, 2025
Summary
Some individuals may find self-narratives unhelpful and choose an "unnarrated self." This approach, focusing on present experience and arbitrary commitment, can foster meaning and motivation without traditional storytelling.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Philosophy of Mind
Background:
- Self-narratives are widely considered essential for well-being, meaning, and motivation.
- Existing research emphasizes the benefits of personal storytelling for positive life outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the concept of abandoning self-narratives.
- To propose alternative, less storied ways of being that maintain meaning and motivation.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of reasons for abandoning self-narratives.
- Proposal of "embracing arbitrary commitment" and "orienting toward the present" as facilitators of an unnarrated self.
Main Results:
- Self-narratives can be perceived as inauthentic, self-absorbed, or impediments to change.
- An "unnarrated self" is achievable and can provide meaning and motivation.
Conclusions:
- Self-narratives are not universally necessary or beneficial for everyone.
- Abstaining from self-narratives may lead to richer experiences, fulfillment, and committed action for some individuals.
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