I often used to believe life was pre-written, but over time, I realised that we have this one life to make our own. As I grew more ambitious, I found it increasingly difficult to accept the idea of a preordained life. The thought crossed my mind: if I’m actively working on myself, does that mean my self-improvement journey is already written in my fate? Is it expected that I would pursue personal growth, or is this an active choice?

Taking Control of Life: Creating Your Own Path

The concept of taking control and shaping our lives through our choices brings a deep sense of empowerment and purpose. Believing that our decisions shape our reality enables us to set goals, envision our future, and actively pursue that vision. When we see ourselves as the architects of our lives, every decision becomes an act of creation. This belief in self-agency fuels our drive and purpose, making each day an opportunity to craft a life that aligns with our aspirations.

Letting Life Happen: The Philosophy of Fate

In philosophies like Buddhism and Hinduism we find teachings that encourage acceptance of life as it unfolds. The belief that “what is supposed to happen will happen” suggests that some events are beyond our control.

Yet, life often throws us unexpected challenges or sudden changes we had not foreseen. In these moments, we often say, “This was meant to be,” or “Karma” accepting the events as part of a larger, possibly pre-written plan. This concept of “meant to be” may serve as a coping mechanism, a way to find peace when we can’t find logic in an outcome. It makes one wonder if this concept of fate or destiny was developed to offer comfort. Did ancient thinkers and philosophers create the idea of fate to help people find peace amid life’s chaos? After all, some events — like an unexpected accident or loss — don’t seem to have any rational explanation.

For many, this mindset offers comfort, a sense of relief knowing that life is guided by a higher power or cosmic order. However, surrendering fully to destiny can potentially sap motivation. If everything is fated, why strive or fight for a different outcome? This way of thinking can lead to a feeling of giving up, where striving for goals or trying to improve yourself feels pointless because everything seems already decided by fate.

The Balance Between Fate and Free Will

Sometimes, letting go or accepting what we cannot change is the most empowering choice, freeing us from unnecessary struggle. At other times, facing the challenge with resilience and determination can lead to growth. In the end, while some events in life may be out of our control, we still have the power to choose how we respond. While it may be “pre-written” that we encounter challenges, but we have the power to choose whether to rise, grow, or give up.

Feel free to leave a comment if you have a different perspective on the balance between choice and destiny. I’d love to hear your thoughts and how you view the role of fate versus free will in shaping our lives.