What If I Ran My Life

Personal Values

When it comes to designing a life, personal values are the foundation upon which everything else is built. These values guide our decisions, shape our interactions with the world, and help us navigate the complexities of daily living. They are not static; they evolve as we grow and experience new things. For me, these values are deeply rooted in a humanist philosophy, emphasizing the importance of global interconnectedness, justice, inclusion, curiosity, self-direction, creativity, authenticity, and peace.

Internationalism is a core value for me. I believe that humanity is interconnected, and that diversity of cultures and perspectives makes us stronger. Justice is another fundamental value—everyone deserves equal dignity and opportunity. Inclusion is essential; building bridges rather than walls fosters better solutions and communities. Curiosity drives my desire to keep learning and exploring new paths without fear of meandering. Self-direction is about maintaining the freedom to chart one’s own course, regardless of societal expectations. Creativity involves choosing to build rather than consume, constantly seeking ways to improve the world around me. Authenticity means being honest about who I am rather than performing a role others expect. Peace is about avoiding conflict and harm, while striving to be a net benefit to my community and the world.

Conversely, there are values I do not want to prioritize. Wealth and power are not the measures of success; instead, I believe in enriching communities equitably. Tribalism and exclusionary thinking have no place in my worldview. I reject the idea that focus requires tunnel vision; a broad range of experiences and interests enhances effectiveness. Competition should be replaced with collaboration, and tradition must be questioned rather than followed blindly.

Parenting is central to my values, especially now that I have a son. I want him to grow up with a global perspective, valuing inclusivity, justice, and community over individualism. I envision a home environment that nurtures his curiosity, creativity, and sense of responsibility to the world around him. It's about instilling in him the belief that he can make a positive impact, whether through education, activism, or simply being a thoughtful and compassionate person.

Location, Location, Location

Choosing where to live is a critical part of aligning with my values. The location should support an international perspective, foster diversity and equity, encourage intellectual and creative exploration, and provide a healthy, supportive environment. Cities like Amsterdam, Montreal, Toronto, Copenhagen, Vienna, and Berlin fit these criteria well. Each has its unique strengths: Amsterdam offers a strong international community and progressive governance, while Montreal and Toronto boast multiculturalism and vibrant arts scenes. Copenhagen emphasizes sustainability and work-life balance, and Vienna provides excellent social services and cultural opportunities.

However, none of these cities are in the United States, which was not a deliberate choice but rather a result of my research. If I had to include an American city, Portland would be the best option due to its progressive values and diverse neighborhoods. Yet, it also faces challenges related to racial diversity and systemic issues that need to be addressed.

Living in a place with a strong sense of community is essential. I seek environments where people share similar values, where there is a rich seam of progressive, internationalist communities, and where mental health resources are accessible. A city that respects human autonomy, supports marginalized groups, and promotes democratic participation is ideal. These factors contribute to a sense of belonging and security, which are vital for raising a child in a nurturing environment.

Work and Career

Work plays a significant role in shaping a life. I want to engage in meaningful, impactful work that aligns with my values. This includes supporting causes that promote equality, justice, and inclusivity. My career strategy is guided by a mission to create a more informed and equitable world, with a vision of a society where everyone has equal opportunities and voices are heard.

I prefer working in environments that value creativity, collaboration, and ethical practices. Public benefit corporations, co-operatives, and non-profits resonate with my values, as they prioritize community impact over profit. Unionized workplaces are also important, as they offer better benefits and work-life balance.

Currently, I work in non-profit journalism, which allows me to contribute to meaningful projects while maintaining creative freedom. While this role comes with financial trade-offs, the value and purpose it brings are invaluable. I also find time to work on personal creative projects, which are essential for my growth and fulfillment.

Life Beyond Work

Balancing family, work, and rest is crucial for a fulfilling life. I believe in the eight-hour day model, where each day is divided into labor, recreation, and rest. This approach ensures that there is time for family, health, and personal pursuits. Remote work and flexible hours are essential for maintaining this balance, allowing me to spend quality time with my son and prioritize my well-being.

Home life should reflect the same values as my professional life. It needs to be a space where everyone can be themselves, communicate openly, and work together as a collective. Education is a key component of raising a child, and I aim to foster a love of learning, creativity, and critical thinking. Schools should be inclusive and equitable, providing all children with the same opportunities.

Technology and Ethics

Technology should support a life centered on creation and reinvention, not consumption. Open source platforms, ethical software, and devices that can be upgraded and repaired are important. I avoid platforms that promote harmful ideologies or exploit users. Instead, I advocate for building our own tools and controlling our data.

AI and other technologies must be used responsibly, with a focus on ethical considerations. I strive to teach my son the importance of creating rather than consuming, encouraging him to learn programming and see the joy in building his own work. This mindset fosters a sense of agency and empowerment.

Final Thoughts

Designing a life is an ongoing process, shaped by our values, experiences, and the world around us. It requires introspection, reflection, and a willingness to adapt. While compromises are inevitable, the key is to stay true to what matters most. By naming our values and considering their meaning, we can create a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.