I’ve been listening to Cal Newport’s Deep Questions podcast where he sells the idea of the “deep life”, a worldview that fits nicely with which goes well with Greg McKweon’s “essentialism”. So it was quite fun to pair the two in an interview episode on Greg’s podcast.
Not surprisingly, it made me think about what really matters in life?
Starting with previous ponderings, I’ve developed a rough motto of “gently enjoy and improve the world together”.
The most immediate “together” in my world is my family and kids.
What matters when “gently enjoying the world” with my kids? Being present, and limiting distraction. Trying to be a supportive of their growth (sometimes gently, sometimes strictly). Teaching them to be good at what they do and to be kind to those around them.
Beyond teaching, it is important to model the good life – developing a valuable skill with careful dedication to earn a living. Outside of work, one should enjoy a variety of quality leisure activities: writing on this blog, reading a variety of books, drawing, twiddling on my banjo, baking bread, and hanging out. If I had more an “excellence” mindset, I might pick one and dump the rest, but I’m queasy with the tradeoff that comes with hyper focusing one’s non-compensated pursuits. I believe that breadth matters in appreciating what the world around us.
But what matters for “improving the world”?
Honestly, I haven’t figured that part out, beyond my immediate family and some small work projects. If I was of a more altruistic bent maybe I would join a service organization, however, there isn’t a group or cause that I feel strongly about.
Maybe it’s just a cop out, but for now, the family is what matters and getting the kids pointed in the right direction is my primary focus. That’s what really matters at this time.
It’s hard enough to improve yourself and those you love, much less the world (even if it’s part of your personal motto). Maybe that part comes later.