Chapter 12
My life vision
PREFACE
My Life Vision and my Quality-of-Life categories are intrinsically linked. When I started writing this—despite having a dozen different renditions of each chapter—I was stuck on this chapter. My Life vision was having all the other chapters come into fruition, right? It was having a great Quality of Life. Surely that is what I wanted to aim for?
Whilst this is not inaccurate, as I began writing this, I came to realize that I was chasing the wrong things and that I was visualizing the wrong things. There are plenty of self-help books out there that will say things along the lines of “Visualize what you want, and you will manifest it.” But it doesn’t work like that.
Growing up, I had some idea of my life vision—successful, rich, etc., and whilst on occasion that life vision may have come into the forefront my mind, for the most part it was just an idea running in the background, with no real strategy.
This is the last chapter in the book, and for good reason. I have discussed cause and effect and discussed it in each and every chapter written. In the Health Chapter, I delved deeply into what would happen if I exercised most every day and ate and drank right, but if I did not have a great internal attitude, I would just get sick, or more specifically punish myself, take it out on myself and make myself sick. In the Financial Chapter, I discussed what would happen without a great internal attitude if say I won a million dollars or even ten million dollars—that I would squander it or get robbed or some variation of that.
And so, my life vision must equally follow cause and effect too. If I am wanting a particular output, I must understand what to input and how—i.e., change my mind.
That’s how my life vision now differs from what, if any, life vision that I have had all my life. In a nutshell my life vision is therefore, to be the person in this book, to be the best version of myself and with that to make my wife, my son, and myself proud.
I won’t live forever and there are four primary reasons for writing this book and the relevant final reason is as follows:
To help me remember all the things in this book so as to give myself guidance when I need it. My summaries give me a quick reminder whilst the chapters help me dig deeper.
PREMISE
My life vision provides a clear and compelling picture of the future that I desire to create for myself. It is a guiding principle that helps me align my actions, goals, and decisions with my ultimate purpose and aspirations. It serves as a roadmap, providing direction and focus as I navigate through my own life.
My premise rests on the belief that everyone has the power to shape their own destiny and live a meaningful and fulfilling life. It recognizes that by intentionally designing and working towards a desired future, I can create a life that aligns with my values, passions, and goals.
But my life vision goes beyond short-term goals or immediate desires. It encompasses a broader perspective, considering all areas of my life, including personal growth, relationships, career, health, spirituality, and my contribution to society. It is a holistic view of what I want to achieve and experience in different aspects of my life.
By having a clear life vision, I can gain clarity about my purpose and what truly matters to me. It also empowers me to overcome obstacles and setbacks by acting as a source of inspiration and resilience during challenging times—reminding me of the bigger picture and the possibilities that lie ahead. In other words, my life vision is how I see my life when the sum total of this Lifebook has come into fruition.
The foundation of my life vision lies in recognizing the illusory nature of the world and shifting my perception towards a higher truth. It involves transcending my ego’s limited perspective and aligning myself with the guidance of my intuition—the voice of love within.
My life vision is based on the understanding that my true purpose is to remember my oneness with The Universe and to extend love to myself and others. It invites me to see beyond my ego’s illusions of separation, fear, and judgment but instead, to cultivate a vision rooted in love, forgiveness, and unity.
It is not focused on the acquisition of material possessions, personal achievements, or worldly success. Instead, it emphasizes the awakening to my true identity as a spiritual being at peace, and oneness with the world and allowing the wisdom of The Universe to lead the way.
By aligning my life vision with my intuition, I can open myself to my spiritual growth and the awakening of consciousness; recognize that the material world is fleeting and ultimately insignificant compared to the truth of my innocence. Such a life vision brings forth a sense of inner peace, joy, and purpose. It enables me to recognize that the innocence and truth in each person remains untouched by their outward behaviors or appearances.
At the same time, I must have a willingness to release my own attachments to my ego’s illusions and embrace this higher reality. I can therefore gain true fulfillment by aligning my own thoughts, words, and actions with the principles of love, forgiveness, and unity.
My wife, Jennifer holds a significant role in my life, acting as my primary catalyst for personal growth and self-awareness. Our connection goes beyond mere physical attraction or surface-level compatibility. Instead, there is a metaphysical dimension (or cosmic reason) that draws us together—we are intricately intertwined, each fulfilling a unique purpose in the other’s life.
One of the remarkable aspects of our relationship is the way Jennifer faithfully reflects back to me what I need to see or understand. She serves as a mirror, consistently revealing aspects of myself that require attention, contemplation, or growth. It is through her presence that I am able to delve deeper into self-reflection and expand my consciousness.
Note: if I find something or someone to be exhausting, it is simply a reflection of my own judgments and resistance. Instead of approaching the situation with frustration or weariness, I can gain valuable insights by examining the underlying causes of what feels like exhaustion.
Likewise, when I feel drained or overwhelmed, it is a sign that I have judged or am currently judging against the person or situation in question. It is important to recognize that this internal judgment creates a state of resistance, akin to trying to push down a massive, unyielding tree. Naturally, this resistance creates exhaustion because I am expending my energy in opposition to something that is inherently steadfast.
This metaphorical tree represents the object of our judgments, whether it be a person, circumstance, or belief. It is firmly rooted in place, making it challenging to change or control. By engaging in this internal pushing, I not only expend my physical and emotional energy but also hinder my ability to approach the situation with kindness and understanding.
To alleviate this exhaustion, I must shift my perspective. Instead of resisting and judging, I can choose to cultivate acceptance and compassion. Recognizing that my judgments are not serving me, I can reframe my mindset to one of openness and willingness to embrace the inherent kindness that exists within the situation or individual.
By letting go of the need to push against the unchangeable, I can create space for acceptance, understanding, and a renewed sense of vitality When I am free from the burden of exhaustion, then I can engage in self-reflection and explore the underlying reasons for my judgments and resistance. My exhaustion will always stem from unresolved emotions, past experiences, or limiting beliefs. By delving into these deeper layers, I can uncover valuable insights and opportunities for personal growth.
Throughout my life, I have been taught to pay close attention to the words and actions of others, believing that they hold the key to understanding their true character. However, it is time to challenge this prevailing belief and recognize that relying solely on external manifestations can lead me astray. The notion that words and deeds alone define a person is, in essence, a significant misconception that I must overcome—and in doing so I can achieve my life vision.
PURPOSE
The purpose of my life vision is to provide a clear direction and sense of purpose in my life. It serves as a guiding light to help me make decisions and prioritize my actions. It provides a framework for personal growth and helps me stay focused and motivated, even in the face of challenges.
With a life vision, I can envision the kind of person that I want to become and the life that I want to lead. It helps me identify my passions, values, and strengths, allowing me to make choices that align with who I truly am.
Furthermore, a life vision provides me a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. It guides me in my pursuit of what truly matters to me and helps me live a life that feels authentic and purposeful. It serves as a constant reminder of what I want to achieve and the impact I want to make in the world.
In my life vision, I am nurtured and supported in every aspect, including my financial circumstances. I believe that the flow of finances I need to feel comfortable, safe, and have all my needs met will naturally manifest, whether through my work or other means and with that there is no sense of worry—I really don’t need a mindset of “I’m working solely for the sake of getting paid.” Financial concerns should not weigh on my mind.
Instead, I must trust in the abundant nature of the universe and the interconnectedness of all things and understand that by aligning my actions with my intuition, the necessary resources and opportunities will effortlessly come into my life.
This doesn’t mean that I neglect practical responsibilities or take my financial well-being for granted. I should always be mindful and proactive in managing my finances, making wise decisions, and taking the necessary steps to create stability and security. However, I should do these steps with a deep sense of trust and faith that I am being supported in all aspects of my life, including my financial journey.
By removing the stress and concern about money, I can fully immerse myself in my work, relationships, and personal growth. I can focus on contributing to the world, following my passions, and making a positive impact. The joy and fulfillment that I experience come from the intrinsic value of what I do—rather than a transactional mindset centered solely on financial gain.
In essence, my life vision encompasses a harmonious integration of purpose, passion, and financial well-being. It is a vision where the flow of abundance and the pursuit of my true calling coexist.
By living in alignment, I open myself up to boundless possibilities. I trust that the universe conspires in my favor, guiding me towards experiences, opportunities, and relationships that align with my highest good. It is through this alignment that everything starts to work out effortlessly.
The challenges and obstacles that can arise should be seen as opportunities for growth and transformation, rather than sources of despair or resistance.
VISION
I strive for my personal growth to be a constant pursuit in my life. It is a journey of self-discovery where I can embrace my strengths and weaknesses, whilst I learn and evolve along the way. I can cultivate a mindset of curiosity, resilience, and adaptability, allowing me to embrace life’s challenges and emerge stronger and more determined.
In my relationships, I envision deep and meaningful connections built on a foundation of love, trust, and respect. I am dedicated to nurturing and strengthening the bonds that I share with my wife, my son, and my friends—creating a supportive network that uplifts and inspires both myself and them. I strive to be a compassionate listener, offering empathy and understanding, while also encouraging others to pursue their dreams and passions.
Professionally, I see myself engaged in a career that aligns with my values and purpose. I want to embrace opportunities for growth and seize challenges as steppingstones towards success. Through my work, I aspire to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to the betterment of society.
I shall approach my work and financial endeavors with a sense of purpose and enjoyment, being guided by a deep knowing that as I contribute my unique skills and talents to the world, the universe reciprocates by providing the necessary resources and opportunities for my financial well-being.
With this mindset, I can release any fear or scarcity mentality that may hinder my financial abundance and instead embrace an abundance mindset that fosters a healthy relationship with money.
In terms of health, I envision a balanced and vibrant life. I shall prioritize self-care, recognizing the importance of nourishing my body, mind, and soul. I will embrace a healthy lifestyle, incorporating regular exercise, nutritious food choices, and mindfulness practices into my daily routine. By cultivating resilience and inner peace, I will be better equipped to handle stress and maintain optimal well-being.
Beyond my personal sphere, I am committed to making a difference in the world. I will actively seek opportunities to engage in acts of kindness and service, with a heartfelt desire to uplift and empower others. Whether through volunteering, mentorship, or advocacy, I strive to contribute to causes that resonate with me, creating a positive ripple effect in my community and beyond.
In this life vision, I wholeheartedly embrace growth, love, purpose, and contribution. I shall have a life where I am continually learning, connecting, and making a positive difference in the world.
I aspire to cultivate a profound willingness to see the pure life presence within every individual, regardless of their actions or behavior. This vision extends beyond moments when someone may be behaving non-loving, attacking, or seemingly unintelligent. It encompasses all encounters and interactions, whether in business transactions or leisurely moments with friends on a boat.
My goal is to go beyond the external manifestations of a person’s words and behavior and truly understand the essence of their being. I recognize that human expressions can vary greatly, sometimes reflecting greatness and at other times falling short. However, beneath these surface layers lies the inherent innocence and consciousness of each individual. It is this conscious, aware life presence, that remains consistently pure and untarnished. This unwavering perception of their innate goodness will enable me to respond with love and kindness, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
In practicing this vision, I will strive to embrace the diversity of everyone’s experiences and perspectives, recognizing that we are all fundamentally connected by our shared life presence.
This life-presence within every individual is never the perpetrator of unloving behavior or actions. It is the ego mind that directs the words and deeds where people may falter or lose sight of their inherent goodness. Conversely, the conscious aware presence within each of us remains eternally loving, radiant, and embodies all of the positive qualities that we hold dear.
Whilst writing my life vision, I realize that it’s not about visualizing or manifesting material possessions like a big house, a nice car, horses, or boats. While those things may naturally align with my best interests, they won’t be the focal point or the struggle in my pursuit. They won’t be at the top of my priority list because my ultimate aim lies in something deeper and more profound.
Within the context of my relationship with Jennifer, my learning partner, it is crucial for me to remember that she is always doing the highest and best she is capable of in any given moment. Even when her words or actions may trigger a sense of anger within me, I must remind myself that she, too, is navigating her own journey of growth and understanding.
Regardless of what might be going on in her mind or the internal struggles that she may be experiencing, it is important for me to know and acknowledge that she is doing her best. If she had, at that moment in time, the capacity to be more rational, appropriate, loving, or understanding, she would be. It is essential to recognize that her occasional outbursts or defensive behavior are not intentionally designed to drive me crazy but rather reflect her own insecurities and lack of feeling safe.
By maintaining this perspective, I can approach interactions with my wife and others from a place of compassion and empathy. I can understand that their behavior is often a result of triggered fears or old programming that influences their responses. This understanding will allow me to respond with patience, grace, and a genuine desire to support their growth and well-being.
By extending love and understanding to others, I can create an environment that promotes personal transformation and allows individuals to step into their full potential, as well as foster personal growth within myself.
STRATEGY
I recognize that there is a stark distinction between the words and actions that come from the body-personality and the profound life presence that is the true individual. It is crucial to discern the difference, for it is within this understanding that the essence of innocence, love, and goodness shines forth.
In observing the body-personality, I can witness many different expressions and behaviors. Some may be uplifting and inspiring, while others can be disheartening, hurtful, and steeped in negativity.
However, it is imperative to go beyond these external manifestations and delve deeper into the essence of a person—their life presence. This life presence, which is mysteriously absent in a lifeless body, is the core that radiates innocence, love, and inherent goodness. It is untarnished by the fluctuations of the body-personality.
I strive to cultivate a world where this recognition becomes the foundation of my interactions, where judgments are dissolved, and where compassion and understanding prevail.
Throughout my life, I have been conditioned to place great emphasis on the words and actions of others, believing that they define who they are and how I should interact with them. However, I have come to realize that this perspective is flawed—a mere Halloween costume that they wear, disguising their true essence.
Even in the face of darkness, such as the actions of a criminal, I understand that their underlying life presence remains eternally innocent and loving. There is always an innocent life presence that is untouched by the transient experiences of the human journey. This realization is the key to transform my approach to engaging with others.
Achieving a fulfilling and abundant life is, therefore, not dependent on external factors such as living circumstances, finances, or opportunities. While these aspects certainly can play a role, the true foundation for a harmonious existence lies in embracing a higher purpose—seeing the innocence in everybody, seeing the best in them. This underlying goal holds the power to shape my reality and attract the necessary resources and circumstances to support my life journey.
I need to also recognize the importance of taking appropriate action in my life and understand that it’s not a call for complacency or the belief that everything will be magically taken care of without any effort on my part. Instead, it’s an invitation for me to merge inspired action with my intention to see the truth and goodness in others. By integrating perception and action, I honor my responsibility to engage in due diligence, make wise choices, and actively pursue my goals.
Note: When I hold negative thoughts or wish ill upon others, I am inadvertently determining the quality of my own external experiences. This is because the universal principle of “giving equals receiving” operates in all aspects of life. What I put out into the world, whether through thoughts, words, or actions, has a reciprocal effect on what I attract and experience.
Even my seemingly private thoughts carry energy and influence. It is not just about the actions that I take, but also the intentions and beliefs that underlie them. I must therefore cultivate a mindset that embraces positivity, compassion, and empathy.
When I consciously choose to see the goodness in others, to extend kindness and understanding, and to release judgments or assumptions, I invite a positive energy into my own life and by fostering a mindset of abundance, love, and acceptance, I open myself up to receiving the same in return.
And so, by anchoring myself in this top-level goal, I can embrace the essence of my existence and understand that the material possessions and achievements are merely byproducts of a life lived in truth and authenticity. They are not the ultimate goal but instead are the natural outcome of aligning with my purpose and connecting with others from a place of truth and love.
In practical terms, I can prioritize active listening and deep empathy in my interactions. I can seek to understand the underlying motivations and emotions of others, allowing me to connect with them on a profound level. By holding space for their struggles and vulnerabilities, I can create an atmosphere of safety and understanding, which encourages their growth and personal expansion.
This shift in perception will allow me to tap into the immense power of forgiveness and empathy. It will enable me to break free from the chains of resentment and anger and embrace the healing potential that lies within every human connection. By extending love and compassion, I will create an environment conducive to transformation and growth.
In this new paradigm, I will no longer see others as separate from myself. Instead, I can come to recognize that we are interconnected, sharing in all of human existence. When I choose to see the eternal innocence and love within them, I am fostering a sense of unity and oneness. And so, if I recognize that by honoring their true essence, I am honoring the divinity that resides within me as well.
As I wake up in the morning, start my chores, and pursue my desires, I should be mindful of a deeper purpose that underlies my every endeavor. This purpose transcends the mundane and touches the essence of my every human connection—my true calling is to know, see, cultivate, and reassure others of their innate innocence.
All of my worldly actions will then become a vessel through which I can extend love and compassion to those around me. Whether it is a simple act of kindness, a reassuring word, or a heartfelt gesture, I shall strive to reassure the innocence and goodness within each individual.
But here lies the true essence of the gift: as I strive to see the best in others, to uplift them, and wish them well, I am simultaneously sowing the seeds of my own prosperity. The act of giving becomes the catalyst for receiving. If I withhold my giving, my receiving becomes stagnant and impoverished.
Any struggles or obstacles that once seemed insurmountable will now yield to a greater ease and flow. My challenges will transform into opportunities for growth and connection. It is as if the universe will conspire to support me on this journey of reassurance and compassion. Therefore, my greatest wealth lies not in material possessions, but in the richness of my relationships and the profound impact I can make on the lives of others.
When I extend my well-wishes to someone, it is important to clarify that I am not condoning their specific behaviors or words. I do not dismiss their actions, as if to say, “Well, their behavior and words are perfectly fine.” No, their behavior may indeed be shocking or deplorable, and it is crucial not to conflate the two.
To illustrate this point, envision an archaeological dig. As I dig beneath the surface layer of actions and words, I unearth a deeper understanding. These outward expressions are mere artifacts, products of early conditioning, beliefs, and various external influences. They represent a superficial aspect of their existence.
Put another way, consider an iceberg—an awe-inspiring structure where only a fraction of its true magnitude is visible above the waterline. The majority of the iceberg lies hidden beneath the surface, unseen to the naked eye. Similarly, within each person resides a life presence—an invisible force that has shaped and nurtured them since their inception. This life presence, this core essence, is something we did not create, but rather, it created us.
With my interactions with others, I shall hold an understanding that the behavior they exhibit, which may lack love or appear ridiculous, falls into just one category—an earnest call for help. Rather than viewing their non-loving actions as a testament to their inherent terribleness, I will choose to perceive them as a plea for assistance. This shift in perspective naturally alters my response, leading me down a path of greater compassion and understanding.
Recognizing their call for help does not imply an immediate rush to their aid. Instead, it entails cultivating an attitude of kindness, softness, and understanding towards them. By reframing their behavior as a cry for support, I create space within myself for empathy to flourish. This empathetic stance not only benefits them but also enhances my own well-being.
There is a distinction between merely performing the right actions on a behavioral level and genuinely desiring to see the innocence that lies within each individual. The latter represents a deeper understanding—a profound recognition that they are lovable, deserving, and possess an innate innocence.
If I choose to withhold my attention or dismiss their needs, a part of me will also inevitably feel unheard or neglected. On the other hand, when I genuinely desire to listen and understand, and recognize that they are doing their best with their current beliefs and that their underlying presence remains intact, I am also anchoring those qualities within myself. This mutual exchange of presence, understanding, and recognition will strengthen my sense of innocence and diminish my feelings of guilt.
Ultimately, my goal is to cultivate a heightened awareness of innocence while reducing the grip of guilt. Guilt, as the great punisher of life, will weigh me down and hinder my progress. In contrast, innocence is the liberating force that allows everything, including my finances, to flow effortlessly. By embracing and nurturing a greater sense of innocence, I reclaim the driver’s seat of my life.
Being in the driver’s seat means being conscious of the choices I make, the perspectives I hold, and the energy I emit. By prioritizing innocence and self-compassion, I will pave the way for a more fulfilling and joyous existence. It is a constant reminder that my journey is not just about benefiting others but also about nurturing and honoring myself.
Innocence will become the guiding force that shapes my relationships, decisions, and interactions. It is the cornerstone of my financial well-being, my personal growth, and my overall sense of contentment. With innocence as my compass, I can embrace life’s adventures, confident in my ability to create a reality that aligns with my highest potential.
This realization serves as the grand finale and the culmination of all that I have come to understand. It is the foundation upon which everything else rests. By actively reminding myself of this truth, it will become ingrained within me, just like second nature, effortlessly guiding my every action and thought. It will be as natural to me as knowing how to drive a car, an intuitive skill that requires no conscious effort.
This awareness will then become an integral part of who I am and how I approach every aspect of my life which will unfold with greater ease and joy. It will become second nature to view others through the lens of their underlying innocence, to extend kindness and understanding even in the face of challenging behavior.
My life vision is not merely a starting point on this journey; it is also the ultimate destination. It is the underlying purpose that infuses meaning into every step I will take. It guides me in cultivating a deeper connection with myself and others, fostering a sense of unity and compassion. It shapes my interactions, decisions, and priorities, ensuring that I live a life aligned with my highest values.
And so, as I embody this life vision, I will become a beacon of light, radiating love and understanding to those around me. I recognize that my journey is not solely about personal gain or accomplishment but about uplifting and supporting others on their own paths. It is a continuous dance of giving and receiving, where the more I extend kindness and compassion to others, the more I receive in return.
With unwavering commitment and conscious intention, I will carry this life vision within me, allowing it to shape my thoughts, actions, and interactions. With each passing day, it will become more deeply rooted and woven into the very fabric of my being. And as I live in alignment with this vision, my life will unfold in magnificent ways. My life will be filled with joy, fulfillment, and a profound sense of connection.
This life vision is the essence of my existence, the driving force that propels me forward. It infuses every moment with purpose and significance, reminding me that my journey is not just about individual success but about contributing to the greater tapestry of humanity.
