Why Aesthetics Matter.

Welcome to my very first online journal entry! As a philosophy graduate that loves to think deeply, I want to start sharing some more insights about my values and the inner workings of my mind across my social media, as well as my day-to-day wellness rituals and all things fashion/interiors. Let’s start with the overarching topic of aesthetics, which often gets a bad rep for being superficial. If you think that might be true, let me offer an alternative perspective…

I think most people underestimate the power of aesthetics beyond merely a trend or a set of unrealistic standards, but the beauty around us is not just decoration that we can ignore. Environments shape how we feel, how we think and more ultimately how we move through the world, whether we’re aware of it or not. When we are surrounded by spaces or objects that we find beautiful, our brain responds with a sense of calm and even motivation or clarity. But beyond the basic premise that a beautiful environment can reduce stress and enhance creativity (as backed by science), I think our surroundings do more than just influence our immediate mood.

The power of aesthetics is deeper than surface level appeal. Aesthetics reflect our core values, revealing who we are and what we respect. I have valued aesthetics for as long as I can remember, but it’s only in the past couple of years that I’ve become conscious of why I value these things. Taking a moment to appreciate aesthetics and create beauty in your life is fundamentally a recognition of purpose and order. Even when I haven’t been conscious of it, appreciating beauty has been a way to show self-respect; respect for my values and a nod to my fundamental belief that great things are achievable.

For example, when a workspace is thoughtfully designed, it signals that our work is valuable. When a home reflects thoughtfulness and comfort, it nurtures a sense of belonging. Curating our environment carefully is a profound form of self-respect; it says we are worth the time, attention, and love that beautiful things require, and neglecting aesthetics can reflect a resignation or disconnect from the outside world or even ourselves.

Choosing beauty is a way of affirming life, a declaration that we deserve harmony, meaning, and joy.

Now, don’t get me wrong, cultivating an appreciation for aesthetics takes time and intention. It’s a practice that’s often only possible when our basic needs are met and we’re not simply in survival mode. Some people can afford to invest more time into this than others, and it’s important to be clear about that, but choosing beauty and valuing aesthetics isn’t about aspiring to look like a supermodel or filling your home with the most expensive, luxurious furniture. It’s far simpler, and far more accessible than you might think. Choosing beauty might simply mean keeping a tidy workspace, picking some flowers to put next to your bed, or selecting a favourite cup for your morning coffee. These small acts reinforce the idea that your surroundings matter and, in turn, so do you.

When we see something and genuinely like it, whether it’s the fabric of a chair, the way morning light hits a room, or an outfit with a great silhouette, we are affirming that good things are possible. We are recognising that beauty, order, and meaning exist in the world. This recognition sends a quiet but powerful message: not only do good things exist, but we are capable of achieving or embodying them. To be content living among ugliness, clutter, or neglect is to reflect a deeper worldview: that the world is fundamentally harsh, chaotic, bad or just indifferent.

A philosopher that I’ve more recently discovered put this point beautifully: “Aesthetics is a spiritual necessity. Man needs to see his concept of existence concretized in a physical form, he needs to see it as a living, material symbol of his most fundamental metaphysical value judgments.” (Ayn Rand) In other words, you don’t have a choice in whether you subscribe to a theory of aesthetics or not, and if you think you’re indifferent to aesthetics and the beauty (or lack thereof) surrounding you, you’re wrong. Every object you see, every space you inhabit, every outfit you wear is quietly communicating a worldview to you, and you are absorbing it. You are viewing and internalising theories about the world all day long, whether you’ve chosen them or not.

Indifference is not an option. A neglected, chaotic environment will subtly reinforce that life is messy and unchangeable. An intentional space suggests that order and beauty are possible. Enjoying a painting, a film, or a novel where characters are portrayed as capable and heroic reinforces a worldview in which human beings are worthy and life is meaningful. It can inspire us, raise our standards, and affirm that greatness is possible. On the other hand, listening repeatedly to music that degrades women or glorifies cruelty carries its own set of messages. Even if we think we’re “just enjoying the beat” or “not taking it seriously”, when we engage with that art, we are inviting that worldview into our own mental landscape. And over time these accumulated impressions shape what we expect from life, from other people, and eventually, from ourselves.

Consider the artwork, spaces, and objects you’re drawn to, and ask yourself what they reveal about your principles and your view of the world.

If this way of looking at life makes sense to you, then you’re in the right place. This journal will be a space for exploring aesthetics as a way of living with intention and self-respect. From my interior favourites, to self-care rituals and fashion finds, all of my excerpts will be rooted in the understanding that beauty is not a luxury that we can afford to be indifferent to, but a necessary ingredient for a meaningful and productive life.