Your Life’s Compass
What should I do with my life?
You’re not alone in asking this question. It’s a sign of a deep, human desire for a meaningful and fulfilling life. This guide is designed to help you explore that question, not by giving you an answer, but by providing you with the tools to create your own.
Part 1
Timeless Wisdom on Purpose
For centuries, thinkers and spiritual leaders have explored the nature of a well-lived life. This section distills their insights into core themes. Interact with the cards to explore different perspectives.
The Quest for Meaning
Is meaning found or created? Philosophers disagree. Some, like Plato, believed meaning comes from a higher, objective source. Others, like the Existentialists, argued that we are born without a pre-set purpose and must create our own meaning through our choices and actions.
Key takeaway: You have agency. Whether you believe purpose is discovered or created, the journey involves active participation.
The Role of Virtue & Character
A consistent theme across many philosophies (Aristotle, Stoicism) and religions (Buddhism, Christianity) is the importance of character. Cultivating virtues like wisdom, courage, compassion, and reason is seen as a fundamental part of a meaningful existence, regardless of your specific path.
Key takeaway: How you live is as important as what you do. Your character is the foundation of a fulfilling life.
Connection & Transcendence
Spiritual traditions emphasize moving beyond the self. This can mean connecting with a divine being (Islam, Christianity), aligning with a cosmic order (Hinduism), or working to alleviate the suffering of all beings (Buddhism). A meaningful life is often found in service to something larger than oneself.
Key takeaway: Look beyond yourself. Purpose is often found in connection, contribution, and community.
Wisdom from Lived Experience: Regrets of the Dying
A nurse recorded the most common regrets of people at the end of their lives. They offer a powerful, inverse guide for how to live now. Hover over each regret to reveal the lesson.
“I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself.”
Lesson: Live Authentically.
Honor your own dreams, not the expectations of others.
“I wish I hadn’t worked so hard.”
Lesson: Balance Your Life.
Prioritize relationships and experiences. Don’t miss out on life for the sake of work.
“I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.”
Lesson: Nurture Relationships.
Express love and appreciation. Deep connections are a primary source of happiness.
Part 2
The Science of a Fulfilling Life
Psychology offers powerful insights into what makes us tick. This section provides interactive tools to help you understand your own drivers of well-being and fulfillment.
Your Happiness Portfolio
While about 30% of our happiness is influenced by genetics, a massive 70% is shaped by our environment, actions, and mindset. This chart illustrates your power to cultivate well-being.
Your Core Psychological Needs
Self-Determination Theory states we all have three innate needs: Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness. When these are met, we thrive. Use the sliders to assess how fulfilled you feel in each area of your life right now.
Your Well-being Profile
This chart visualizes your current fulfillment of core needs. A balanced shape suggests well-rounded satisfaction, which is a strong foundation for a purposeful life.
Part 3
Your Practical Toolkit for Purpose
Knowing is not enough; we must apply. This section offers tools to help you clarify your path and take concrete steps forward.
Step 1: Clarify Your Values
Your values are your personal compass. They guide your decisions and define what a good life means to you. Select up to 5 core values that resonate most deeply with you.
Your Selected Core Values:
Select your values above.
Step 2: Set a Meaningful Goal
A well-defined goal can turn vague desires into an actionable plan. Use the SMART framework to craft a goal that is aligned with your values and moves you toward your vision.
Your Personal Compass
A Summary of Your Journey
This is a snapshot of your exploration. It’s not a final answer, but a compass to guide your next steps. The journey of purpose is ongoing. Revisit this, reflect, and adapt as you grow.
My Compass
My Core Values:
Please complete the Values exercise in the Toolkit section.
My Current Well-being Profile:
Please adjust the sliders in the Science section.
My Next Meaningful Goal:
Please generate a SMART goal in the Toolkit section.
