Creating Your Life's Game

As a professional forecaster and prediction expert, I've come to understand that our perceptions shape our realities. People often create their personal truths or accept those imposed on them. This insight has opened new avenues for me as I chart my future.

I was reminded of an exercise from a personal development seminar I attended in the 1980s. The instructor posed a thought-provoking question to a group eager for growth:

"Imagine your life as a film. You are the producer, director, and lead actor. What story will unfold? Where will it take place? Who will join you in this journey? Are you ready for the unexpected twists that may arise?"

This exercise resonated with me. I was never one to conform; I always danced to my own rhythm. I rebelled against norms but eventually learned to be more selective. As I matured emotionally and spiritually, I often questioned authority when conventional wisdom fell short.

Fortunately, I had mentors who understood my quest for individuality. Many were also nonconformists who forged their own paths without causing too much disruption. They guided me.

What kind of film did I envision for my life? I engaged with friends and colleagues to explore real-world scenarios that mirrored the concepts I encountered in game theory. Discussions ranged from historical empires to modern-day events, examining which situations were zero-sum games, cooperative, or a blend of both. This exploration led me to significant thinkers throughout history.

Through this journey, I recognized life games as a framework for understanding truth—not as rigid dogma, but as a pathway to achieving the best experiences with minimal costs. The diverse realms of science, influential thinkers, and the various realities people accept illuminated how game theory could serve as a powerful tool in navigating human interactions. This understanding helped me develop guiding principles to create my life's "film."

Here are some of my favorite concepts from game theory:

1. "In a storm, even an elephant can soar."
2. "Embrace opportunities unless the price is exorbitant."
3. "Observe the birds—soar with the currents. Avoid flapping unnecessarily."
4. "Life isn’t merely a classroom for lessons; it’s a canvas for messages. Ignore the message, and you’ll learn the lesson."
5. "Truth will always find you; you’ll arrive willingly or be dragged there."

The Takeaway

I've come to realize that for these principles to resonate, there must be a purpose or vision guiding their application. Without intention, these sayings risk becoming mere catchy phrases devoid of depth. It’s all about aligning thoughts, words, and actions.

Here’s a video that expands on the concept of life as a game:

The first video titled "5 Rules for the Game of Life" delves into the foundational principles for navigating life's challenges effectively.