Realizing Autonomy: The Journey to Making My Own Decisions

As I look back, I realize that I had assumed I made most of my life decisions independently. But in retrospect, I’ve come to understand that virtually any significant choice has been influenced by external factors, both consciously and subconsciously. This realization comes with the understanding that external influences and internal considerations often shape the outcomes of our decisions, sometimes more than we realize.

Continuous Reflection on Decision Outcomes

Throughout life, it's crucial to reflect on the outcomes of our choices. It often comes as a surprise to understand how much or little our decisions go as planned. So, keep your eyes open, be prepared for continuous learning, and don't hesitate to make adjustments. More data and better decision-making can be derived from keeping a record of outcomes. For instance, the classic "Let's make a deal" example shows that statistically, switching your choice can often lead to a better outcome.

Prepare for fair-weather friends. In the early stages, you might find support and encouragement from those around you, but when challenges arise, you might be left to tackle them on your own. It's important to recognize that while some advice might come from a genuine place, others might not have your best interests at heart. Always weigh the well-being of your choices and outcomes.

A Life of Realization

One pivotal moment for me came when I moved into my current apartment at the age of 30, the year before my fortieth birthday. The realization that non-payment of bills would not allow me to stay was a defining moment. This forced me to reflect on my life choices and understand the importance of financial responsibility and personal autonomy.

Looking back, this period was marked by a quest for self-realization. I had achieved material success, but beneath the surface, I felt a deep sense of emptiness. The notion of success was not aligned with my personal values and desires. I found myself selling homes quickly and climbing a corporate ladder, only to be disappointed by the politics and lack of growth.

The Quest for Truth and Inner Peace

During this time, an inner voice urged me to question my life path. I began to delve deeper into my beliefs, questioning everything that passed through my mind. My quest for truth led me to explore psychology and philosophy, ultimately discovering Carl Gustav Jung's broader perspectives on psychology. I found his theories resonated with me and provided a framework to understand my own psyche.

This journey into eastern philosophy exposed me to the concept that everything is interconnected, and the whole is more significant than the sum of its parts. This realization simplified my search for truth and allowed me to follow my intuition more closely. My current lifestyle may not be as materialistic as before, but the internal wealth I have gained feels richer and more fulfilling.

Reflection and Moving Forward

Realizing autonomy is a lifelong process. It requires continuous reflection and evaluation of our decisions. It is important to embrace the journey of self-discovery and make choices that align with our true values and desires. This journey is not always easy, and it often requires letting go of what once defined success.

By continuously reflecting on our decisions and their outcomes, we can grow and evolve as individuals. The path to autonomy may be challenging, but it is profoundly rewarding, leading to a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Keep your eyes open for opportunities to learn, and be prepared to make the difficult choices that lead to personal growth and self-realization.