My Life, as a Game

18 months ago my life was the Chutes and Ladders board game. I had a path laid out ahead of me, and while there were both great achievements and setbacks, it was just a matter of time until I reach the destination. The problem was that I didn't to choose the destination. I was working hard to get there as fast as possible, and I experienced progress, but towards what? At some point, I started to realize that I didn’t want to play Chutes and Ladders. I wanted to device my own game instead. A game where I not only have control over whether I achieve the next step, but I get to select what that next step will be. Best of all, I can keep creating more destinations, so the game never has to end. Sure, like any game, there will be ups and downs, but now when there is progress, and I get to direct that progress. It is a continuous journey that I create as I go. **What I’ve learned since I’ve changed games:** - I’d rather play my game than anyone elses. - At times, I get confused, because there is no set path ahead of me. I don’t know if I’m on a ladder or a chute. - Helpful friends and time spent in contemplation helps me to focus on my next destination. - Playing my game as a team, rather than against anyone, aids me in reaching my goals faster. - I only want to play with people who want to be on my team. - It’s a challenge to pick destinations. I must allot time to do it, and prioritize this time above all else. -->