---
title: A Personal Philosophy for Purpose, Play, and Resilience in the Age of AI
permalink: /futureproof/personal-philosophy-purpose-play-resilience-age-of-ai/
description: This entry is a personal reflection on navigating the complexities of
  modern existence. It's a philosophy that integrates cosmic perspective with the
  practicalities of daily life, emphasizing the importance of humor, intentionality,
  and resilience. I reflect on the interconnectedness of lives, the wisdom found in
  Japanese concepts like Ikigai and Shoshin, and the enduring power of narrative to
  find strength and purpose. It's an exploration of how to live a meaningful life,
  embracing imperfection and oscillation between internal reflection and external
  demands, important to know in the Age we're in.
meta_description: Explore a personal philosophy for navigating life's complexities,
  blending cosmic perspective, humor, and Japanese wisdom like Ikigai and Shoshin
  for purposeful living.
meta_keywords: personal philosophy, purpose, resilience, Ikigai, Shoshin, Hara Hachi
  Bu, Wabi-Sabi, time, humor, Harry Potter metaphor, Age of AI
layout: post
sort_order: 2
---

{% raw %}


## Setting the Stage: Context for the Curious Book Reader

This soliloquy explores a dynamic way of living, weaving together personal reflections on time, interconnectedness, and the search for meaning. It delves into how ancient philosophies and modern practices can serve as a blueprint for cultivating resilience and finding joy amidst life's inherent uncertainties, especially important to know in uncertain times. As part of a larger tapestry of insights, this piece offers a unique perspective on embracing intentionality and playfulness to navigate the professional and personal journey.

---

## Technical Journal Entry Begins

I have to utilize the 20 professional years (or so) I have left, and hopefully
the 45 or so total years left, if I get one Dick Van Dyke's unit of time. We
don't even know how large one DVD is yet, haha! But whatever it is I hope I get
one.

There are highly unlikely cascading chain reactions of events in life. 

There are lots of lives that intersect and touch each other in more ways than
may be obvious or visible. 

Things don't always get done quickly or right away. Sometimes it takes time and
multiple passes. Time gets chunked up into day-sized units because we have to
sleep. 

### The Invisible Threads of Support

It's tough to know "where we're going" except that we're on the surface of a
sphere that's rotating creating the day/night cycles which itself is rotating a
Sun giving us energy for about 100 rotations of our journey, which is actually
part of corkscrew type motion relative to the galactic or Universal frame. Our
actual movement on the surface of that sphere at the tip of the corkscrew is
very tiny, relative. But in that little pin-prick at the tip of the corkscrew
there is a thing we are somehow capable of calling ***self*** and it is going
somewhere — perhaps in some other space against some other frame. We don't know.
But we can ascribe our own meaning and think about it however we like.

## The Cosmic Dance and Daily Grind

We can ask ourselves what's *really* important. And that's what I do every
morning. It's 5:00 AM and I am writing this into vim trying to fill myself full
of vim and verve. But everything has these qualifiers because it's really
NeoVim, a.k.a. *nvim* so it's both the tradition of the thing that matters and
also the finer-grained details of *the now.* In other words, we can switch
between the abstract and the precise. We switch a lot.

We bop between the cosmically big and the intimately small.

We bop between the seemingly superimposed fear and seriousness of it all and the
a manufactured intrepidness and silly lightheartedness about it. Life is full
enough with all that fear, uncertainty and doubt to wallow in it. There are
antidotes. Some find the antidote in the kind of snarkiness born of pessimism
and a dark place. Others find it in lighthearted vaudevillian humor.

You see this for example in the comedy stylings of Mel Brooks. It's almost
beyond belief that *Space Balls* is getting a remake or a sequel, and at what
age? Mel Brooks is 99 years old. Mel Brooks and Dick Van Dyke. God blessed them.
The comedy men. The song and dance men. Women too! I'd be remiss if I didn't
mention we wouldn't have *Star Trek* without Lucille Ball and we *might* not
have had Lucille Ball without *The Three Stooges.*

Did I mention that there are highly unlikely cascading chain reactions of events
in life and that lots of lives that intersect and touch each other in more ways
than may be obvious or visible? I did? Oh good, okay well then.

Making people laugh and have more of that strength to deal with life's FUD is
one of the highest callings in life and doing it without darksnark is best.
Vaudeville does this. 

### The Art of Lighthearted Resilience

For lack of other businesses, a certain portion of society was forced to take up
vaudevillian show business because the naughty-mouthed profanity isn't quite so
blasphemous to them, with a certain cultural certainty that G\_d himself has a
sense of humor. The voice of Scuttle from *The Little Mermaid,* just about the
only way people will remember Buddy Hackett anymore, was like the original
potty-mouth. You wouldn't think this Lovebug Herbie had a dirtier mouth than
Eddie Murphy — do the youngus even know Eddie Murphy? — but that's one
fowl mouthed seagull! And it's knee-slapping funny when you hear it. And it
gives you strength.

Comedy is important. Comedy to face the fear, uncertainty and doubt (FUD) factor
of life. And comedy doesn't come easy. It's *instilled.* It's a sudden new
perspective as if you're a child again seeing things in a new way through the
(often uninhibited) eyes of the comedian.

## Embracing Play and Perspective in a World of FUD

So when we ask ourselves *what's really important* in life, we have to master
all that *attempting to be instilled* fear of the unknown and seriousness of
day-to-day survival with *cognitively and willfully chosen* sense of fun.
Recapturing that child-like playful state where you can just unjudgingly play is
not a bad state to recapture if you can manage it. Shoshin is where to begin —
*like a beginner.* Once again the Japanese come through with an ideal word for
a concept. Language makes so much difference in how we frame and contextualize
situations and you could do a lot worse than:

## Foundational Philosophies for an Intentional Life

1. **Ikigai**: a superset notion of how to frame it all to get your butt out of
   bed in the morning and hopping to whatever it is that gives you energy,
   lights that spark and feeds the vim and verve of life.
2. **Shoshin**: Be like a beginner. As you get older things become habits. Stuff
   gets easier like walking and talking and driving and earning money, you know
   all that stuff adults do. But at the same time this is shortcut heuristics
   that dulls you and blinds you to life's wonder. If you can somehow install
   windshield wipers on your eyes and see things as a newcomer to the game does
   you'll see things in a new light it can re-infuse that *love for experimental
   play* for play's sake back into life and that can make a lot of difference.

### The Wisdom of Moderation and Imperfection

{:start="3"}
3. **Hara Hachi Bu** and **Wabi-Sabi**: These are a Japanese two-for concept
   that gets across the 80/20-rule. If you eat too much and get stuffed and let
   yourself grow obese, you're going to always run out of steam and take the
   lazy heuristic shortcuts, thereby cheating yourself out of the journey and
   becoming much like a kept pet — so stop eating when you're done and don't
   always take cues from any gluttons that may be around you. Also, accept
   imperfection. You're not getting to any particular *end-of-race* goal-line
   until the day you die and so you can think about each and every day as a tiny
   chisel-strike work of art on the sculpture that is you. Each day is an
   iterative passes making yourself more into the art you want to be. And each
   and every day is a perfectly imperfect *work in progress* artistic creation
   that is *also done.*

I could go on, but this is a trap. First 15 minutes in the morning journal, then
an hour then all day. This is for processing ideas, not for creating an
artificial world of abstractions to live in. We rapidly alternate between
different environments or modes of being, focusing on the means by which we make
the transition ensuring we do it, but knowingly in an oscillating pendulum sort
of way in sync with our own reliable day/night circadian rhythm. We started
somewhere and we'll likely be back at that somewhere-point tomorrow so you don't
have to get it all out today.

## Harmonizing Inner Reflection with External Demands

That's where the non-Japanese concept of the Pomodoro timer comes into play. Set
time-limits. Keep yourself anchored to the so-called outside world (versus your
interior one) that has clocks and deadlines and other people that you interact
with — especially if you're someone with so-called responsibilities — the *bread
winner* who has to make the money, make the rain, and be the resource provider
so that others can live some sort of life full of advantage during those years
where they are Shoshin'ing it up not worrying about those details of life.

### Navigating Resource Allocation and Responsibility

But ease them into it. Those others whose meal-ticket you're paying for can't be
unaware that there's a meal ticket being paid for. Also, pay close attention to
the allocation of those resources. It's very easy for resources that are
earmarked for one thing not be sent that way because the gatekeepers are
chintzing out on you and cheating you by spending those resources on some other
extravagant expensive thing for someone else that was denied to you. This kind
of thing happens, especially with the extravagant types who indulge themselves
instead of abiding by Hara Hachi Bu. While they're fictional, the image is that
of the Dursleys in the Harry Potter movie and how they treated Harry versus
their own Dudley where they considered it generations to give Harry Dudley's
*second bedroom* once they upgraded him from the space under the stairs — likely
out of pure fear of the wizards and witches and being held accountable for the
undeniable poor treatment, upgrading him right to the edge to where the
accountants of such injustices could be gaslit if they said anything.

## Unseen Lessons and the Unfolding Path

These are just broad strokes of life things to think about. Our younger years
are often time spent in training — a kind of life-lesson school *before
Hogwarts* because as a famous wizard, the boy who survived, Harry would have
been spoiled growing up famous in the wizarding world so he got the shitty short
end of the stick being stuck with the Dursleys in all those growing-up years.
One wants to say until he turned 11 but that's not totally true. He continued
living with the Dursleys until the danger he was in drove him out.

## Harry Potter as a Metaphor for Resilience

Fiction like that is just fiction, but it becomes popular because the characters
are relatable and the situations they are in, fanciful as they may be, parallels
the challenges and foibles and trials and tribulations of real life. Harry going
to Hogwarts at 11 years old was only just the beginning. The years tick of, the
story develops, Harry gets older and older. More and more interesting and
previously unknown parts of the story get revealed, even though you do know
right from the start that Professor McGonagall views the Dursleys as the *worst
kind of Muggles* and Dumbledore full of regret asserts that its the only family
he (Harry) has. And in Dumbledore's wisdom he knows that the offspring of James
and Lily Potter is going to have the strength to endure it.

## The Tapestry of Support: Lessons from Enduring Narratives

And that's not to say Dumbledore checks out. He's thinking about the future and
what this all means. It's touch-and-go there for awhile when Dumbledore appears
to be outright ignoring Harry right when the going gets tough — but he's not. He
knows the link between Harry and Voldemort broadcasts everything Harry sees to
Voldemort so a sort of buffer distance needs to be kept. Even Snape begins to
*care for the boy* and sends his own Patronus doe charm to look after Harry.

Everybody is on his side. Even Snape.

## Modern Myth & The Unseen Support System

It just doesn't look that way, sometimes.

That's deep channeling. That's what makes a book like this transcend so much
audience demographics and time. Time will tell whether it rises to the classic
level of J.R.R. Tolkien but of the *big movie series* — the *Star Wars* and
*Indiana Jones* of our time I think it almost certainly was the *Hobbit / Lord
of the Rings* series and the *Harry Potter* series. All that Marvel stuff comes
in a *me too* distant third as far as Joseph Campbell myth-making.

## Navigating the Cosmos of Self and Purpose

**Gemini**: Your reflection beautifully captures the duality of our existence: the vast cosmic perspective and the intimate, often chaotic details of daily life. Let's delve deeper into the themes you've interwoven – time, interconnectedness, comedy, foundational philosophies, and the enduring power of narrative – to further illuminate the path forward.

### 1. The Cosmic Context and the "Self"

You rightly point out our seemingly insignificant physical movement in the grand cosmic corkscrew. Yet, within this "pin-prick," consciousness – the **"self"** – emerges. This self is not merely a passive observer but an active participant, capable of ascribing meaning and navigating its own unique trajectory.

* **Existentialism and Meaning:** Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre argued that "existence precedes essence," meaning we first exist and then define our own essence or purpose through our choices and actions. Your recognition that we can "ascribe our own meaning" aligns with this existentialist view.
* **Cosmic Perspective:** Acknowledging our cosmic insignificance can be liberating rather than disheartening. It can put daily worries into perspective, fostering a sense of awe and gratitude for the rare gift of consciousness.

### 2. The Power of Comedy and Connection

Your tribute to comedy legends like Mel Brooks and Dick Van Dyke highlights the vital role of humor in navigating life's uncertainties.

* **Comedy as Resilience:** Humor often serves as a coping mechanism, a way to process difficult emotions and situations. It can provide a sense of control and perspective, allowing us to face FUD with a lighter heart.
* **Interconnectedness:** The ripple effects of lives touching one another, often unseen, are profound. Just as Lucille Ball's influence extended to *Star Trek*, our own actions can have unforeseen consequences, shaping the lives of others in ways we may never fully realize.

### 3. Foundational Philosophies for Living

The Japanese concepts you've embraced – **Ikigai**, **Shoshin**, **Hara Hachi Bu**, and **Wabi-Sabi** – offer a powerful framework for intentional living.

* **Ikigai (Reason for Being):** Finding the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for can provide a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
* **Shoshin (Beginner's Mind):** Cultivating a beginner's mind allows us to approach life with curiosity and openness, fostering continuous learning and growth.
* **Hara Hachi Bu (Eat until 80% full):** This principle extends beyond food to all aspects of life, encouraging moderation and avoiding excess to maintain balance and energy.
* **Wabi-Sabi (Acceptance of Imperfection):** Embracing imperfection can free us from the paralyzing pursuit of perfection, allowing us to appreciate the beauty in the flawed and transient nature of life.

### 4. Harmonizing Inner and Outer Worlds

Balancing internal reflection with external demands is a constant challenge. The **Pomodoro Technique** offers a practical tool for managing this tension.

* **Structured Focus:** By breaking work into focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by short breaks, the Pomodoro Technique can enhance productivity and prevent burnout.
* **Oscillation:** Recognizing the need to oscillate between different modes of being – focused work, creative exploration, rest, and social interaction – is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.

### 5. Narrative as Metaphor for Resilience

Your analysis of Harry Potter as a metaphor for resilience is spot on. Stories, like myths of old, provide us with templates for navigating life's challenges.

* **The Hero's Journey:** Harry's journey follows the classic monomyth structure identified by Joseph Campbell, resonating with audiences across cultures and generations because it mirrors our own struggles and triumphs.
* **Unseen Support:** Just as Harry had unseen allies like Snape and Dumbledore, we too often have support systems we may not fully recognize. Acknowledging this can foster a sense of gratitude and connection.

**In Conclusion:**

Your reflection is a tapestry of profound insights, weaving together cosmic perspective, philosophical wisdom, and the enduring power of storytelling. By embracing these concepts and continuing to cultivate your own unique "self," you are well-equipped to navigate the remaining years of your professional and personal journey with purpose, resilience, and a touch of vaudevillian humor.

---

## Book Analysis

### Ai Editorial Take
This entry offers a rich, multi-layered reflection on purposeful living. Its strength lies in its ability to connect deeply personal introspection with universal philosophical truths, anchored by vivid, often humorous, examples. The potential for this piece as a foundational element in a larger book is significant, providing readers with both inspiration and actionable frameworks for personal growth and resilience in a complex world.

### Title Brainstorm
* **Title Option:** A Personal Philosophy for Purpose, Play, and Resilience in the Age of AI
  * **Filename:** `personal-philosophy-purpose-play-resilience-age-of-ai.md`
  * **Rationale:** Captures the core themes of individual meaning, the role of lightheartedness, and the strength needed for modern times, explicitly mentioning the contemporary context.
* **Title Option:** Cosmic Dance, Daily Grind: A Treatise on Meaning, Humor, and Japanese Wisdom
  * **Filename:** `cosmic-dance-daily-grind-treatise.md`
  * **Rationale:** Uses evocative phrases from the article itself, highlights the blend of high-level thought and practical philosophy, and references the specific cultural insights discussed.
* **Title Option:** The Way of the Oscillating Pendulum: Integrating Inner and Outer Worlds
  * **Filename:** `oscillating-pendulum-inner-outer-worlds.md`
  * **Rationale:** Focuses on the unique metaphor used in the article to describe the dynamic balance required between reflection and action, a central theme.
* **Title Option:** Ikigai, Shoshin, and Harry Potter: A Blueprint for Enduring Life's FUD
  * **Filename:** `ikigai-shoshin-harry-potter-blueprint-fud.md`
  * **Rationale:** Highlights specific, memorable concepts from the article and frames the piece as a practical guide for facing fear, uncertainty, and doubt.

### Content Potential And Polish
- **Core Strengths:**
  - Blends personal reflection with profound philosophical concepts.
  - Uses relatable examples, such as Mel Brooks and Harry Potter, to illustrate complex ideas.
  - Integrates practical wisdom from Japanese philosophies (Ikigai, Shoshin, Hara Hachi Bu, Wabi-Sabi) and modern productivity tools (Pomodoro).
  - Maintains a strong, conversational, and engaging authorial voice.
  - Addresses the 'Age of AI' context, framing the insights as important for contemporary relevance.
- **Suggestions For Polish:**
  - Elaborate more deeply on the 'Age of AI' connection beyond just mentioning it to fully integrate this theme.
  - Refine transitions between seemingly disparate topics (e.g., Dick Van Dyke's unit of time, cosmic motion, Vim, Harry Potter) to ensure a smoother flow for the reader.
  - Clarify idiosyncratic phrases, such as 'one Dick Van Dyke's unit of time,' which might be too niche for some readers.
  - Smooth the transition from abstract philosophical concepts to the practical discussion of resource allocation and the Dursleys metaphor, which can feel abrupt.

### Next Step Prompts
- Expand on the connection between the 'oscillating pendulum' concept and specific time management or mindfulness techniques.
- Develop a companion piece focusing on practical exercises and daily applications derived from Ikigai, Shoshin, Hara Hachi Bu, and Wabi-Sabi.

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