I’m currently reading A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy by William Irvine and although I’ll hold off on providing my thoughts on the book until I’ve finished it sparked some inspiration that I thought worth pursuing. One thing I realized, was that although I was embarking on this journey into philosophy I needed to establish a framework for my philosophy for life. I anticipate and hope that this philosophy changes over time, as I learn and grow, but I think it’s worth writing out and referencing it often to make sure my day to day decisions are in service of my overall philosophy for life.

Purpose

Above all else, my purpose is to achieve internal happiness, peace, and tranquility. This sounds, and is meant to be, ego centric but I recognize that achieving these qualities is dependent on how I interact with the world around me. In order for me to achieve these internal, and deeply personal, qualities I must find a way to exist in harmony with my environment. What it means to live in harmony with my environment will change over time as my physical body changes and as I expand my knowledge of the world around me.

My happiness is directly correlated with my ability to spread that happiness to the people around me.

Core Values

1. Self-Improvement: I value continual growth in my knowledge, skills, and personal development. I strive to better myself every day.
2. Exploration: I find joy in discovering new ideas, places, and experiences. Exploring the world around me, both on my own and with my partner, Dana, enriches my life.
3. Commitment: I take pride in setting personal goals and diligently following through on them. Whether it’s maintaining my health, expressing my creativity, or adhering to personal commitments, I see these achievements as a reflection of my dedication and discipline.

Mission Statement

I will dedicate myself to living a fulfilling life characterized by continual personal growth and exploration. I am committed to expanding my knowledge, experiencing life fully with my partner, and achieving my goals with integrity. My mission is to pursue happiness in its evolving forms, making mindful choices that allow me to live without regret and leave a positive impact on those around me.