[Daniel_Van_Zant]

I agree with the author, but I would also say there is something above goals and constraints. Values. A set of things that, when comparing multiple options, make the choice clear. An example of some values I frequently use is "What will give me the most enjoyment the furthest into the future? "What will result in the world being a better place?" "What will make me become someone who resembles Jesus more?" They are different from constraints as they don't knock out any options by default. Instead, they make triaging when there are many different things I could be doing much easier, and circumvent my messy intuition which is based on hormones, hunger, weather, etc.

I think values, goals, and constraints are all valuable, but it's a hierarchy. We should create constraints that help us become more aligned with our values. We should create shorter-term goals that make it easy to stay within our constraints.

To support both my point and the authors, here is Benjamin Franklin's "Thirteen Virtues," which seem to be a mix of constraints and values (zero goals): https://fs.blog/the-thirteen-virtues/

[jjude]

> I think values, goals, and constraints are all valuable, but it's a hierarchy. We should create constraints that help us become more aligned with our values.

Thank you for saying it so well.

I have found difficulty in finding my values. Writing my obituary helped: https://www.jjude.com/my-obituary/. I wrote that almost 16 years back (published only in 2020). It helped me choose my pursuits well.

I don't live in the biggest house in town, or own a sports car. But I work for 3 days a week, homeschool two kids, have breakfast and dinner together as a family, we either workout at home or swim as a family, preach in two churches, and enjoy my work. I consistently feel, I am living in a dream.

[speed_squared]

> What will make me become someone who resembles Jesus more?

Certainly period-correct carpentry tools such as an adze, maul and cubit stick.

[Daniel_Van_Zant]

As someone that enjoys carpentry, I don't think I would be entirely upset about this way of taking the question haha.

[hbarka]

The adze certainly would not be Jesus period. I think it was more 10,000 BC period.

[IAmBroom]

? Adzes are still in use.

[Dumblydorr]

Being a rabbi with no possessions and who is kind to others.

[bitpush]

Thanks for sharing the 13 virtues. It was a bit dense to read, so here's an (LLM assisted) friendlier version.

Temperance (Practice Self-Control): Don't overeat, and don't drink just to get drunk. Practice moderation in your habits.

Silence (Speak with Purpose): Only speak if you have something meaningful or helpful to say. Avoid gossip and pointless chatter.

Order (Be Organized): Keep your belongings organized and manage your time effectively. Have a place for everything, and a dedicated time for each task.

Resolution (Be Decisive and Committed): Figure out what you need to do, and then follow through. Do what you say you're going to do.

Frugality (Be Mindful of Your Money): Spend money only on things that truly benefit you or others. Be resourceful and avoid waste.

Industry (Work Hard and Be Productive): Use your time wisely. Always be engaged in a useful activity and eliminate distractions.

Sincerity (Be Genuine and Honest): Don't deceive people. Be sincere in your thoughts and words and speak with good intentions.

Justice (Be Fair and Responsible): Don't harm anyone. Fulfill your responsibilities and be fair in all your dealings.

Moderation (Avoid Extremes): Practice balance in all things. Don't overreact, and learn to let go of grudges.

Cleanliness (Be Clean and Tidy): Maintain good personal hygiene and keep your clothes and living space clean.

Tranquility (Stay Calm and Composed): Don't get upset by small things or events you can't control.

Chastity (Practice Sexual Responsibility): Treat sexuality with respect, in a way that isn't harmful to your well-being or anyone else's peace of mind and reputation.

Humility (Be Humble): Learn from others. Prioritize listening and learning over ego.

[SOLAR_FIELDS]

Marie Kondo built an entire industry around this philosophy. “If it doesn’t bring you joy, get rid of it”