The Key Decision Only You Can Make: Defining Your Values

In our era, we have access to countless answers. Just enter your query into a search engine or AI chatbot, and you will get immediate, rational, top-notch responses. However, there’s one inquiry that no tech tool can address: What is the purpose of existence? Interestingly, the reply is quite straightforward. Once, I came across this notion printed on a postcard at a cafe in Kathmandu: The essence of life lies solely within what you choose it to be.

Ever since then, I have committed myself to unraveling the science of meaning—striving to comprehend its true origins. Does it come from within us or from external factors? flow state ? Well-being? Habits Goals? Defeat? Toughness? Enjoyment?

What do people typically lament the most?

Perhaps a more suitable beginning would be to inquire: What diminishes the significance?

In the book Top 5 Regrets People Commonly Express When Reflecting on Their Lives at End Time In her role as a palliative care nurse, Bronnie Ware documents the insights shared by individuals during their last moments—when reality can no longer be concealed. The most common regrets include:

1. I regret not having the bravery to lead a life that was authentic to who I am, rather than conforming to what others wanted for me.
2. I regret working so hard.
3. I regret not having mustered the bravery to voice my emotions.
4. I regret not keeping in contact with my friends.
5. I regret not allowing myself to be happier.

Regret, as far as I understand, exists at one extreme of the emotional continuum. On the opposite end lies fulfillment —the feeling that life has purpose, significance, and clarity. Regret is merely the anguish of the past being revisited in the present. Can delegating tasks, bravery, and joy to artificial intelligence help diminish this regret?

Related: 9 Tips for Discovering Your Life’s Purpose

Can plenty result in vacancy?

Can AI and robotics automate the mundane so that hard work becomes optional? Elon Musk thinks so. He predicts that our future challenge won't be productivity But what about human fulfillment? If we had an abundance of everything without facing adversity and yearning, would this lead us to emotional breakdowns—or perhaps even more damagingly, confine us within echo chambers of self-indulgent pleasures, where each of us becomes the central figure in our own digital worlds?

Or will we do what humans always do — manufacture challenge, strive, compete and dream big? Even if we're monkeys in glass cages, under the watchful gaze of a superintelligent "god" that punishes misbehavior, rewards effort and medicates us with algorithmic precision? Well, many of us do like rules and boundaries. Would I prefer an AI overlord to flawed human governance? Maybe. Could AI usher in a great reset, reallocating wealth and distributing resources more efficiently? Quite possibly. Will it honor merit — or invite, even compel, everyone to contribute meaningfully? (I asked ChatGPT , which answered that compulsion would only be required if we face existential threats.)

What makes the journey worthwhile?

No matter what lies ahead, the key challenge stays the same: making the trip seem worth it Making sure our actions have significance—perhaps just for us alone.

Throughout most of history, religions, monarchs, countries, groups, and kinship systems dictated our beliefs. In those times, delving into profound inquiries wasn’t necessary, particularly when staying alive was paramount. However, today we find ourselves compelled to ponder questions such as: What matters deeply to me? What provides my life satisfaction? And what impact do I wish to make?

The purpose might seem lofty, yet values are deeply embedded—often scattered just below the surface of our consciousness, surfacing during times of stress or joy. When you clarify your values , you can start to develop your own spiritual routine.

What steps should one take to implement their values effectively?

Are you passionate about fitness? Start your day with stretching exercises and conclude it with a run. Organize your lifestyle around these activities. If kindness resonates deeply with you, make an effort to help others, show empathy in your actions, and dedicate time each week to volunteering. For those who cherish tranquility, practice meditation regularly, consider teaching yoga, and join movements aimed at promoting global peace.

Aligning yourself with your core principles brings significance, particularly through challenging times. Resistance and constructive tension are essential. There’s nothing quite as fulfilling as observing our growth over time: managing stress more effectively than we did in our youth, or restoring equilibrium following periods of turmoil and disarray.

In my workshops When I inquire about what individuals are proudest of accomplishing over the last year, their responses invariably revolve around perseverance rather than simplicity. These achievements often involve bouncing back from illnesses, aiding family members, striving towards ambitious objectives, or just persistently refusing to surrender.

What does the hero's journey look like in modern times?

We don't have to be flawless. However, we must make an effort, encounter failure, and then strive again. That's the approach. hero's journey : leave the comfort zone, gather allies, gain skills, get knocked down and rise again. We conquer the dragon and return home changed. That journey is what creates meaning.

AI can't give us that It can serve as a tool, yet we still require expertise, development, camaraderie, and bravery.

Yes, some might be left behind — engrossed in virtual realities , fueled by robots, existing within gamified, plasma visions. A genuine version of The Matrix. However, there’s an alternative scenario: We define our values , and AI assists us in identifying areas where we can still make an impact. It recommends potential partners. It guides us towards meaningful goals. And similar to a competent mentor, it allows us to learn from our mistakes.

Related: Eager to Discover Your Purpose? Cease Searching for It. Begin Life Embracing It.

Where do we begin?

We do something worthwhile — whether it's achieving a goal, being of service or loving someone.

We work less. We live authentically. We stay connected to friends. We speak our truth. We allow happiness, but it starts with values Because if you don't select them intentionally, you will subconsciously adopt them, be it from consumer culture, influencers, or ease of access — and this will leave you feeling hollow.

Therefore, discover your core values. Implement them into your life. Build resilience . Think big. Reach for the stars — and with the assistance of superintelligence, you may actually achieve it.