There are a number of things that worry me in life but out of it all, a life not well lived is the most prominent. Achieving fulfillment, purpose and clarity – these are goals that have been passed from generations past and in an effort to internalize them, I have spent the past few years expending energy on all things good. I’m still not sure where my energy comes from nor how I managed to be blessed with the opportunities that I got, but I do know that as a result of the choices I’ve made over the past four years I’ve ingrained in myself an inclination towards experiential immersion. Turning 26 however has given me the chance to reflect and decide to redesign my life.

The people I’ve talked to have compared my redesign to a New Year’s Resolution, but I think this is slightly more long-lasting than just a year’s effort. For one, I’ve thought a lot about what I stood to gain by continuing my life on the path it was going on – partying, indulging & overstimulating my senses. There’s a lot more to see in the world for sure, but in taking stock of my exposure so far, I’m brought to realize that I’ve gained so much from the world and haven’t done much with these new insights yet. As a consumer, I have lived life well and I will not regret a lot of my youth, but as a creator of value back to society, I have been lacking.

Another feature of the redesign is asking myself how I attract others and interact with them. One is usually keen to spend time with interests and capacities similar to themselves. In the past four years, I’ve met so many amazing people all across the world and in varied professions. But with a good 80% of them, the experience has been a short spurt with high energy. These produce great stories but not necessarily great relationships. Rather, a life designed for strong long-lasting relationships adds value to others and believes in both the quiet and the loud. If I want to create impact with a wholesome life, am I really prepared for that they way I am now?

So that brings me to here. Here isn’t a revolutionary place, but it’s a place of change nonetheless. Previously, when I’d commit to value-creation, I had always seen it as a large pivot in my life. Now, I see it as incremental steps and a series of choices. Choosing to go home before midnight more, spending less on alcohol and food, carving out time to do brainstorming and solutioning – these are small changes I’m making to live a healthier, more sustainable life. Because I want to design my life for a good time and a long time. Let’s see 27 match up to that.