At this point in time, I'm a bit far off from mastering the fundamentals in terms of the design curve.
A good dose of creativity is embedded in design, especially with regards to problem-solving and envisioning novel solutions.
That's also mostly the lever I pull on this domain for overcoming initial inertia and generating fresh ideas, as the other aspects are still areas where I'm building foundational understanding.
I think there's much science to it than just the art of design. Art mostly brings style and aliveness, but there needs to be a structure that's established first before such aesthetic flourishes can truly elevate the outcome.
As of late, I've become more keenly aware of this lifestyle design narrative across social media. What really piqued my interest was comparing and contrasting it with other life pursuits.
Somehow, any form of comparison brings out hidden assumptions and also gives another level of understanding towards what we actually value versus what we think we should value.
Vague Definition, Broad Surface Area
In this case, one of the comparisons was that focusing on designing your life is more important than chasing millions.
Much of the average modern person will make a quick mental note of the seeming impracticality (or even privilege) when such a statement is heard.
This mental note could also be a fleeting curiosity, or perhaps a deep, unacknowledged longing for an alternative.
I'm no different here. The idea is mind stopping against the backdrop of trying to survive in an increasingly expensive world.
But there's nonetheless much vagueness across the board when it comes to actionable implementation.
What does designing your life mean in the first place?
For me, this isn't unlike building a house that never gets ready because there's always something to improve upon.
Alternatively, it could be viewed like constantly rearranging furniture in a room you're not even sure you want to live in.
I think the proposition of "lifestyle design rather than chasing millions" carries an inherent vagueness that clashes with the tangible realities of modern existence.
My ordinary mind evokes images of curated freedom and flexible schedules when it is seduced by the allure of "designing your life".
This is interesting, since I can ponder more and imagine near endless possibilities but without a clear definition, it risks becoming another aspirational buzzword, much like the equally elusive "happiness".
In terms of pondering, is true freedom the absence of financial constraint, or the ability to craft one's days regardless of wealth?
I know it seems both questions are the same but really how much personal design is truly possible when the demands of rent, food, and basic necessities dictate so much of our time and energy?
Simple Truths, Life Flows
There's no easy way out of this dilemma.
For the majority, the pursuit of millions, or at least financial stability, is a necessary foundation for any form of designed life.
The conversation quickly shifts from idealistic philosophy to pragmatic survival when greedy ambition is reframed as desperate necessity.
Of course, this isn't to say the idea of intentional living is flawed, but more so that its articulation tends to lack the grounded reality faced by most when it comes to acknowledging existing systemic barriers.
However, even within this seemingly complex interplay, there are simple truths that bridge the gap between grand aspirations and daily grind.
For instance, whether one is chasing millions or designing a life, both paths demand clarity, consistent effort, and adaptability.
Even if it's not readily apparent, people chase millions for what it can unlock in terms of choices, and that in itself could be perceived as a prelude to lifestyle design.
Life resists being designed in the same way water resists being held. The best we can do is create better containers and learn to flow with the inherent impermanence of all things, wherever the river takes us.
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