But, You Never Left explores the concept of “identity”: why it's malleable, why we lose it, what happens when we do and how to build a new one. Tom leans on anecdotes, narrative therapy, mythology, psychological research and spiritual texts as well as evolutionary frameworks to explain what it means to be human, in so far as we can conceptualise ourselves.

But, You Never Left aims to solve perhaps the most fundamental question itching beneath the surface of every existentialist's skin: “What is the meaning of life?” Across multiple levels of analysis, Tom believes the answer to that question is that there is no answer! Meaning is constructed-not found-by what an individual decides to give the most meaning to-what he or she chooses to value above all else. Ultimately, conscious action will help individuals find their purpose because, put simply, they'll have created it for themselves.

Tom shares his personal experiences: his pains, anxieties and journey to explore the personal and collective psyche. He hopes to convey the importance of clarity and goal-directed behaviour-life jackets that help keep individuals afloat whilst swimming within the sea of life's infinite potential for action. After all, the best way to find a path is to create one for yourself.

Tom Ahern