Comment by rpicard
In the last year I did a lot of thinking along these lines (I’m 30 for context).
Until now I’ve spent a lot of my focus chasing credentials, even if I didn’t really realize that.
For example, having good schools, companies, etc (YC even!) on the resume.
All of that served me well, but I think now it’s important to switch to harvesting some of the fruits of that labor and deciding what I inherently want to pursue.
I get joy out of a bunch of things; spending time with my family, running a business, even learning and listening to my favorite podcasts. I’m much more focused on doing things that bring me joy now, and the choices I make are in service of that.
A few things I read last year that were influential for me:
Obituary for a Quiet Life (relatively short): https://bittersoutherner.com/feature/2023/obituary-for-a-qui...
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter
My tl;dr is really just the pursuit of love, joy, good health, and good money.
I've recently started reading more, particularly books for self enrichment like How to Win Friends and Influence People and How to Stop Worrying and Start Living. After reading your comment, I read the obituary and then I went and picked up Greenlights and I'm hooked. I can't wait to read more of it and after I finish it I'll pick up The Comfort Crisis. Thanks for the recommendations. If you have any others you recommend I'd love to check them out.