What is the meaning of life or rather to be existent in this life? Is it a never-ending search for happiness or is it to create a better world? Of the people that I have asked or spoke to regarding this topic, it seems that no one has ever pondered deeply about this topic. I find it strange that something I thought would be the foundation of what guides us through the journey of life, is blatantly ignored or not thought much about. Perhaps it was too difficult a topic to think deeply through, and procrastination eventually sets in - much like how I have often experienced.
Well, for me, I think the meaning of life lies in the basis of living a happy and fulfilled life. As cliche as it sounds, I think it might be true for everyone. But being happy and fulfilled have very different meanings for each individual. For example, an individual might feel greater satisfaction when building up his achievements rather than starting a family, and vice versa for another individual.
Personally, I believe Maslow's hierarchy sums it up quite nicely.
Important things in my life
1) Health
2) Family and friends
3) Wealth/Financial Freedom
4) Pursuing a Cause/Interests/Hobbies
For number 4, there are several for me such as
1) Exploring the world (before global warming consumes us)
2) Investing full time & to further my studies in accounting and financial analysis
3) Starting my own business
4) Making a positive difference in the world (Based on my expertise & wealth)
5) Continue to explore new interests/hobbies as things are everchanging
Conclusion
Even at the start of your financial journey or your life journey for that matter, I think it is always critical to figure out what are the important elements in your life (as soon as you have the mental capacity to do so). What makes you happy and fulfilled? I think in general, it is important for us to deeply think about this, to guide us towards a general direction that would make our lives better and more meaningful. Your life's strategy. Each person's journey is different and I can only provide counsel to a certain extent - based on my limited experiences and my research of others who have pondered deeply about these questions. The onus, ultimately, is on each and every one of us - your life is yours to own.
