How to Know What Matters in Life

The secret to living a happy and fulfilling life – on your own terms

Life is an extraordinary journey, not just a paycheck or a bunch of things. Punta de Lobos, Chile – the coldest waters on the planet. Photo: Per Håkansson.

About a decade ago I went through a deep existential crisis. While I was wildly successful from the outside, I was miserable inside. I had simply been focusing my attention on the wrong things.

I broke up with my old life and began creating a new life. I shifted a sedentary and suburban lifestyle for a nomadic and global lifestyle. I quit my job, became freelance, and decluttered and simplified everything.

The change felt like a fresh breath of air. I was excited about the daily freedom I was experiencing in mind, body, and soul. Yet something was still amiss, something was still lacking, something crucial for my wellbeing.