## Understanding a Philosophy of Life A philosophy of life refers to a person's fundamental beliefs, values, and attitudes concerning existence, purpose, meaning, and how one should live. It acts as a personal framework or guide for making decisions, understanding the world, and navigating life's challenges. The following principles represent the viewpoints I have determined will most likely lead to positive experiences and a fulfilling life. ## Influences and Origins While these tenets are personalized, my philosophy of life is not entirely original. It draws inspiration and builds upon concepts from several established philosophies. You can read more about these foundational influences here: - [[Existentialism]] - [[Minimalism]] - [[Objectivism]] - [[Stoicism]] ## My Core Tenets for a Fulfilling Life [[1. The possibilities are endless, but there are always trade-offs.]] [[2. Life is all problems; I will try to find problems I like solving.]] [[3. Experiences shape beliefs, and beliefs shape experiences.]] [[4. Absolute control, conservation, and certainty are illusions.]] [[5. Time and attention are limited and always flowing.]] [[6. I can only control what I take responsibility for.]] [[7. My deepest regrets reveal your biggest failures; I will use them to guide my decisions.]] [[8. Chaos reveals who I really am, and power only magnifies it.]] [[9. Inauthenticity and the use of force are always traumatic.]] [[10. Pain inflicted on oneself or others never results in long-term change.]] [[11. Achievement requires luck and a plan. The best plans need the least luck.]] [[12. Effort and resources yield greater rewards when invested.]] [[13. Works are best executed under a singular vision.]] [[14. In pursuit of happiness, be curious, not judgmental.]] [[15. Relationships and purpose are built, not found.]] [[16. Love can only be sent to the future and received in the present.]] [[17. The way I treat others shapes how I expect to be treated.]] [[18. My feelings and needs are always valid, but not always understood.]] [[19. Shame blocks vulnerability and therefore prevents intimacy.]] [[20. My opinion on my matters is most important, but others offer insight.]] [[21. I must make it known how I feel and what I want if I want to be helped and understood.]] [[22. Gratitude loses its potency over time and if not shared is wasted.]] [[23. Everyone acts in their own interest, but helping others often serves mine as well.]] [[24. Everyone is beautiful and worthy of love.]] [[25. We are all one people and any effort to divide us is only an illusion.]]