YOU ARE WHAT YOU DO, NOT WHAT YOU SAY YOU WILL DO! PART 2

“Faced with eternal return, I question: is this life we live worthy of being repeated infinitely? May our choices be affirmative, may our actions be expressions of our will to power.” (Friedrich Nietzsche)

With gratitude and enthusiasm, I continue this journey of reflection and self-discovery, begun in Part 1 of this deep dive into the essence of human existence. I sincerely thank you for dedicating your time and mind to exploring the ideas and insights shared previously.

The second part is divided into “The Relationship Between Human Values and What Makes a Successful Life,” “Anguish and the Constant Search for Meaning in Life,” and “Neuroscience of Decision-Making.” Thus, my proposal is to take you even deeper into the intersection between human values, the pursuit of a successful life, and the complexity of being. In this chapter, we will delve into the depths of the human soul, exploring the roots of our deepest values and questioning the ultimate meaning of a fulfilled and accomplished life.

Here, we will examine how individual values intertwine with our perceptions of success and meaning, and how these fundamental aspects of human existence have been shaped over time by varied and often contradictory influences.

I invite you to join me on this journey of self-awareness and reflection, where we will seek to more fully understand the nature of human values and their intrinsic relationship with an authentic and meaningful life. May our reflections guide us towards wisdom and personal growth, as we explore the complexities and wonders of human existence.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMAN VALUES AND WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL LIFE

The analysis of how individual values have become subjective over the centuries leads us to a profound reflection on the evolution of the human condition and the sociocultural transformations that have shaped our perceptions and understandings of what is moral, ethical, and meaningful in life. From ancient times to the present day, we witness a complex and multifaceted trajectory, in which individual values have been constantly influenced by a variety of factors, including historical, cultural, religious, philosophical, and political contexts.

Throughout history, we observe a diversity of belief systems and values that have arisen and disappeared, reflecting the different worldviews and ways of life of human societies in different times and places. From ancient civilizations to contemporary societies, we witness a multiplicity of ethical, religious, and philosophical traditions that have shaped and influenced individual and collective perceptions and behaviors.

However, as human societies progressed and became more complex, we also witness a gradual process of secularization and pluralization of values, in which the authority of religious and traditional institutions was increasingly questioned and challenged. This process was accompanied by a growing recognition of the diversity of human experiences and perspectives, leading to a greater appreciation of individual autonomy and freedom of choice.

In this context, individual values have become increasingly subjective, reflecting each person’s unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations. As the boundaries between the public and private spheres became more fluid, each individual was confronted with the responsibility of defining their own values and guiding their life according to their principles and personal convictions.

This moral and ethical autonomy is both a privilege and a challenge, requiring each individual to engage in a continuous process of self-awareness, reflection, and ethical decision-making. In defining their own values, each person is called to consider not only their own interests and desires, but also the impact of their choices and actions on others and the world around them.

Therefore, the importance of each individual defining their own values lies not only in the pursuit of authenticity and personal integrity, but also in the promotion of a fairer, more compassionate, and more supportive society. By recognizing and respecting the diversity of human values and perspectives, we can cultivate an environment of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual understanding, in which each person is free to pursue their own vision of a meaningful and successful life.

When Luc Ferry’s proposal about what constitutes a successful life comes to mind, I am led to explore the complexities of the psychology of values and choices, delving into the depths of the human condition to understand how our choices shape not only our lives but also our identity and personal meaning. The relationship between personal values and the actions chosen throughout life is a theme that resonates deeply with me, as I recognize the vital importance of this interaction in shaping who we are and directing our individual journeys.

Throughout my own life and career, I have witnessed firsthand with each client how our choices are intrinsically linked to our deepest values. Every decision we make, no matter how small, reflects our beliefs, priorities, and innermost aspirations. From seemingly trivial choices in everyday life to crucial decisions that shape our future, our actions are tangible manifestations of our internal values.

This relationship between values and choices is dynamic and evolving, shaping our identity over time. As we make choices and experience life, we refine and redefine our values, adapting them to the circumstances and learnings we encounter along our journey. Every choice we make is an opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen our values, or to challenge them and expand them to new horizons.

So I ask you, have you ever stopped to think about what values truly represent you? Perhaps it’s possible that if I were to ask you now about human values, or better yet, what your values are, you might face some difficulty in pinpointing or explaining them clearly and objectively. Who knows, you might respond with something related to the fundamental principles and beliefs that guide people’s behavior and decisions. Saying that they reflect the qualities we consider important and desirable in life, such as honesty, respect, responsibility, empathy, among others. That these values influence our choices, relationships, and interactions with the world around us, shaping our ethics, morals, and personal identity. Or perhaps simply summarize this and just say that human values are essential for building a just, harmonious, and compassionate society. But why do we struggle to contextualize our own values?

The problem lies in the difficulty of looking at oneself. Reflecting on the complexity of human values, I realize that it is often challenging to clearly express our own principles and beliefs. Although we intuitively know what is important to us, expressing these values can be challenging. This is because our values ​​are deeply rooted in our essence. They are shaped by a variety of influences and experiences throughout life, which often put us in cognitive dissonance to deal with present moments. Not surprisingly, values ​​are intrinsically related to our choices. What may now give you more clarity in what I described at the beginning of the article (Part 1) as Jung highlights, “You are what you do, not what you say you’ll do.”

Values ​​are much more than words and intentions; they have to do with our behavior. It is in every action and attitude in daily life. It is in our affections, in our gestures, in our words. It is in dreams, desires, and wills. It has to do with our own “SELF”.

For example, imagine a situation in which a person is faced with the opportunity to cheat on an exam to get a better grade, which they need to achieve by any means to continue their scholarship. If their values ​​include honesty and integrity, they are more likely to reject this option, opting to study hard and get a fair grade. On the other hand, if this person’s values ​​are more aligned with success at any cost, they may be tempted to cheat to achieve their goals. This simple illustration demonstrates how our values ​​shape our choices and behaviors in everyday life.

In everything that involves choices in life, there is value. That is why dedicating a second of life, you can soon observe how our values ​​can be influenced by different aspects, from our personal experiences to family and social systems. This complexity makes identifying and understanding our own principles a continuous and challenging process. That is why I insist on saying that this complexity makes the process of identifying and understanding our presence while there is life a constant challenge, but also an opportunity for personal growth and reflection on what we really value in life.

Despite the difficulties, it is crucial to reflect on our values. It is not possible to talk about a successful life without reflecting on our values. This reflection is the permissible path to make decisions more aligned with our deepest aspirations, building an authentic and meaningful life. Therefore, even though it is a challenge, dedicating time to explore and understand our values is fundamental to our personal development and to living a truly fulfilled life.

The fact is that human values ​​are fundamental principles that not only guide people’s behavior and choices, but also say a lot about them. They reflect what we consider important, worthy of appreciation, and deserving of effort in our lives. They are like internal compasses that guide us in decision-making and in the way we interact with the world around us.

In fact, it is essential to understand that human values ​​are not static or universal; they are alive, resignifying with life. Just as they are always subjective, since, as they are based on our cognitive construction as beings, they vary from person to person and are influenced by a variety of factors, such as culture, education, life experiences, and social context. What is valued by one person may not be as important to another, and that is perfectly natural; in fact, it has to be that way for us to evolve as thinking beings. In other words, there is only thought in diversity.

Values ​​encompass all areas of life, from ethical values, such as honesty and integrity, to personal values, such as freedom, happiness, and authenticity, as well as being present in our likes, desires, ambitions, hobbies; in short, it is a consistent part of who we are, what we are, and what we can be. Therefore, we must not forget to include social values, such as justice, solidarity, gratitude, generosity, and respect for differences.

Human values ​​have both a practical dimension and an aspirational dimension. The practical dimension manifests itself in our daily actions, choices, and behaviors, while the aspirational dimension concerns the ideal of who we want to be and how we would like to live our values more deeply.

In this sense, it is crucial to understand that the origin and sustenance of these values ​​are intrinsically linked to our interaction with other human beings. Indeed, the presence and coexistence with other individuals are fundamental to the formation and development of the values ​​that define us.

In essence, human values ​​shape our identity, influence our interpersonal relationships, and guide us in the search for meaning and purpose in our lives. By understanding and living according to our most authentic values, we can cultivate a more fulfilling existence aligned with our true aspirations. Recognizing the diversity and uniqueness of each individual and connecting with others are essential aspects of this process. After all, it is in interacting with others that we find much of ourselves, in addition to the possibility of reflection, learning, and growth, indispensable elements for a full and meaningful life.

It is important to recognize that our choices are not just passive reflections of our values, but also active agents in shaping our identity and sense of self. By choosing to act according to our values, we reaffirm our authenticity and personal integrity, thus strengthening our connection with our deepest values ​​and our understanding of who we are.

On the other hand, when we make choices that are in conflict with our values, we experience internal imbalance and a sense of disconnection from ourselves. These moments of dissonance invite us to deep reflection on our values ​​and priorities, and challenge us to align our choices with our authentic values ​​to live a truly meaningful and coherent life.

If the idea is then to seek to understand what a successful life really is, it must be clear that when addressing the psychology of values ​​and choices, the fundamental importance of cultivating a mindful awareness of our deepest values ​​and making choices that are aligned with these values ​​must be remembered. Only by honoring our authenticity and personal integrity can we truly find meaning and fulfillment in our lives, thus building an identity that reflects who we are at our deepest core.

ANGUISH AND THE CONSTANT SEARCH FOR MEANING IN LIFE

I have already spoken a little about the relationship of anguish with our choices, and it was not by chance. The discussion about the anguish associated with decision-making and the constant search for meaning in life leads us to a deeply human and existential territory, where the complexities of the human condition intertwine with the vicissitudes of our own existence.

Choices! An intrinsically human activity, an ability that distinguishes us as conscious and autonomous beings. This reminds me of a time, early in my journey in the world of Cognitive Behavioral Development, when I heard from a professor the statement that as perfect as a spider’s web may be, it will never be able to come close to those that humans are capable of weaving! This was intriguing and at the same time disturbing, I confess that it took me some time to understand this metaphor. And he was right, simply because the spider only knows how to make that type of web, while man is not only capable of learning to do the same but also creating various other ways of weaving.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau said: “The animal always follows the same path, because its instincts are always the same; man, who often anticipates his needs, frequently changes his behavior to achieve the same end. The cat, left free, will always follow the same path like a pigeon. Only man varies his mode of action. He cannot be a dog, a lion, a cat, or any other animal; he can only be man.” Rousseau offers a fascinating view of human nature by highlighting man’s ability to vary his actions, unlike animals, who instinctively follow a predefined pattern. For Rousseau, man’s limit lies in his nature. He argues that only man is capable of shaping his behavior in a flexible and adaptive manner, reflecting a fundamental characteristic of our species: the capacity for choice.

However, this capacity for choice is no longer limited only to traditional day-to-day decisions. Today, we live in an era where technology offers us possibilities that challenge the traditional limits of human nature itself. Through genetic manipulation, we are able to modify our own DNA, assuming an almost divine role in the creation and modification of life. We can change our aesthetics, transplant organs, even witness the birth of a neuron. Furthermore, artificial intelligence allows us to create machines that can think and act in ways that were previously exclusive to the human mind.

This reflection brings us back to the anguish and constant search for meaning in life. As we become increasingly capable of shaping our destiny and the world around us, we are confronted with the weight of the choices we make and the unpredictable consequences that may arise from them. Anguish arises from the awareness of the power and responsibility we carry as human beings capable of shaping our own destiny.

The anguish in the face of decision-making is amplified by the inherent uncertainty of the future. The unknown intimidates us, and the fear of regret haunts us. This anguish is fueled by the awareness that our choices have the power to irreversibly alter the course of our lives, and that we are responsible for those choices.

The search for meaning in life arises as a response to this existential anguish. Faced with the uncertainty and transience of life, we desperately seek to find a higher purpose that gives meaning to our experiences and guides our choices. This search for meaning drives us to explore deep questions about who we are, why we are here, and what is the purpose of our existence.

However, this search for meaning can be a difficult and tortuous journey, marked by doubts, conflicts, and internal struggles. We often find ourselves facing questions without definitive answers, and the ambiguity of the human condition can leave us lost and disoriented. The existential anguish that arises from this search can lead us to question our deepest beliefs and values, and to confront the emptiness and hopelessness that sometimes seem unavoidable. Yes, it’s true. But it’s also anguish that gives us the unique opportunity to doubt. To learn to ask more questions than to find answers. To enable us the unique ability to think.

One of the greatest virtues of the human being lies in his ability to question. To seek questions instead of answers. It is no coincidence that it is precisely these moments of anguish and uncertainty that provide us with unique opportunities to grow and transform. By confronting our fears and facing our deepest doubts, we can discover a source of strength and resilience that we did not know we had. The search for meaning in life is not an easy journey, but it is a journey worth undertaking, because it is in this search that we find the true meaning of our existence and the ultimate purpose of our lives.

NEUROSCIENCE OF DECISION MAKING

“In the journey of existence, we are called to confront our own finitude and embrace the singularity of each moment, for it is in the relationship with time and the world that we find the essence of authentic life.” (Martin Heidegger)

I know that perhaps after delving so deeply into the psyche and philosophy of the subject, discussing neuroscience may seem somewhat audacious or even out of context. But that’s where I see it differently. Today, I understand that all sciences focusing on human behavior must go hand in hand, thus making it possible to make it clear that, although discussing what a successful life is is much more philosophical and psychic, without neuroscience, it is not possible to demonstrate categorically that indeed, body and mind go together, where one depends on the other and that in the end human complexity is intrinsically interconnected. After all, today there is enough knowledge and resources to prove that we are much more than we could ever think of being one day.

The integrative approach between neuroscience and human sciences offers a more complete and holistic view of human nature and the pursuit of a successful life. By combining the insights of neuroscience into the biological processes of the brain with psychic and philosophical reflections on the more abstract aspects of human existence, we can achieve a deeper and multifaceted understanding of who we are and what motivates us.

It is essential to emphasize the importance of the interdisciplinary approach, as it allows us to explore the complexity of human existence more comprehensively and integratedly. By uniting the knowledge of neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology, we are able to see life from various perspectives, which enables us to have a more holistic and multifaceted understanding.

Neuroscience provides valuable insights into the biological processes of the brain, allowing us to understand the neural bases of our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. On the other hand, philosophy invites us to reflect on fundamental questions of existence, such as the purpose of life, the nature of truth, and the pursuit of happiness. Psychology helps us understand the behavioral patterns and mental dynamics that influence our choices and actions.

By integrating these different disciplines, we are able to obtain a more complete and profound view of human life. We can understand not only the biological and psychological aspects, but also the existential and ethical questions that shape our experience. This interdisciplinary approach allows us to explore the complexities of the human condition in a more integrated way, enriching our understanding and offering valuable insights into the pursuit of a successful life.

By recognizing the interconnection between neuroscience and the human sciences, we can adopt an integrative approach that recognizes the complexity and interdependence of the different dimensions of the human being – physical, mental, emotional, sentimental, and spiritual. This approach allows us to explore the questions of human life more comprehensively and holistically, recognizing that our understanding of what it means to live a successful life is enriched by the combination of scientific insights and philosophical reflections.

In this sense, without delving into technical terms or the theoretical depths of neuroscience, it is worth understanding that by exploring the neuroscience of decision-making, we are guided to a fascinating territory where the mind meets the brain, and the complexity of human behavior meets the intricate neural circuits that sustain our cognition and emotion. The decision-making process is a fascinating intersection between the brain areas responsible for rational thinking and those responsible for processing emotions, constituting our emotions, and making sense of experiences in such a unique and subjective way.

The influence of neurobiological factors on decision-making is profound and multifaceted. Neuroscientific studies have revealed that different regions of the brain play specific roles in evaluating information, weighing options, and making choices. For example, the medial prefrontal cortex is often associated with executive functions and decision-making, while the limbic system, including structures such as the hippocampus and amygdala, plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and evaluating rewards and punishments.

Furthermore, the interaction between reason and emotion plays a fundamental role in the decision-making process. Traditionally, emotions were believed to be irrational obstacles to effective decision-making, but recent research has revealed that emotions play a crucial role in evaluating options and making decisions. Reason and emotion are intrinsically interconnected in the brain, and it is this dynamic interaction that allows us to make adaptive and informed decisions.

Just as areas responsible for our determination like the RAS, Reticular Activating System, which along with areas like the prefrontal cortex, plays a fundamental role in regulating alertness and selective attention, while the prefrontal cortex is involved in executive functions such as planning, decision-making, and cognitive control. The interaction between these brain areas is essential for formulating our goals and purposes, as well as for making decisions that are aligned with these goals and personal values.

Neuroscientific studies have shown that emotions influence how we evaluate information and attribute value to different options. For example, emotions such as fear can increase our aversion to risk, while positive emotions can make us more likely to seek rewards. Furthermore, the prefrontal cortex’s ability to modulate and regulate emotional responses plays a crucial role in effective decision-making, allowing us to weigh the consequences of our actions and choose the best option based on our goals and personal values.

What matters here is understanding that the statement ‘You Are What You Do, Not What You Say You Will Do!’ has everything to do with our decision-making. In this sense, it is essential to recognize the complex interconnection between reason, emotion, and feelings as a cognitive issue. Far from being opposing forces, reason, emotion, and feelings work together, in a neurochemical process that involves the whole body, to help us navigate the complex and unpredictable world around us. By understanding this dynamic interaction, we can develop a deeper understanding of the mechanisms that drive our choices and a richer appreciation of the richness and complexity of the human mind.

Yes, it is true that almost all of our decisions occur at the unconscious level, but that does not mean that we are slaves to our own mental process. At every moment of life, we can take the reins of the world we are creating for ourselves, bringing to light the awareness of what we are doing to ourselves. Being in the present state is being conscious, after all, there is only consciousness in the now. In other words, I intend to highlight that making this moment now an exercise in self-reflection, allowing yourself to recognize your own feelings, is an opportunity to also observe yourself and realize if this is the moment you really want to experience. From reflections like these, the reality about our decisions comes to light. Only then can you dialogue with yourself and tell your mind what you want to do next. After all, if the goal is a successful life, the moment of now is where you can question yourself if you are on the right path to achieve it.

Okay, I understand! But, what does this have to do with this last part of this article that talks about neuroscience? My answer is everything!

After so many years working with human behavioral development and attending to thousands of people so diverse throughout this journey, to me it is more than clear that understanding that we can be in charge because our mind not only allows this but also feels pleasure when we take the reins of life, makes all the difference.

Let me show you in another way. Our mind has a resource available and that is used throughout our lives, but we never pay attention to it, called brain plasticity. This is a fascinating phenomenon that reveals the ability of the human brain not only to adapt and reorganize in response to experiences throughout life, but also to allow changes in our life trajectory as long as you tell it what you really want, make clear what your goals and purposes in life are! This dynamic capacity not only allows us to learn new skills and acquire knowledge, but also plays a fundamental role in shaping our preferences, values, and behaviors over time.

An intriguing aspect of human nature is brain plasticity, which plays a fundamental role in shaping our preferences, values, and behaviors throughout life. The brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize in response to experiences offers constant opportunities for growth and personal transformation. Over the years, research has revealed that new experiences have the power to actively reshape neural connections and alter brain activity, thus influencing our perception of the world and our interactions with it. This dynamic capacity not only allows us to learn new skills and acquire knowledge, but also offers us the opportunity to become who we want to be. By exploring brain plasticity, we are reminded of the incredible potential for growth and evolution that each of us possesses. Each experience, each challenge, and each moment of self-discovery actively shapes our mind and behavior, allowing us to adjust our life trajectory as we seek an authentic and meaningful existence.

By understanding how brain plasticity influences our preferences and values, we are led to a deeper understanding of how the experiences we undergo actively shape the structure and function of the brain. Studies have shown that new experiences have the power to reshape neural connections and alter the activity of different areas of the brain, thus influencing our perceptions, emotions, feelings, and behaviors.

For example, when we are repeatedly exposed to certain stimuli or experiences, this can lead to lasting changes in the organization and activity of the brain. These changes can occur at the cellular level, with the strengthening or weakening of synaptic connections, or at the macroscopic level, with the reorganization of entire neural networks. But, I go further, for example, let’s imagine that you have just discovered your life purpose, clearly realizing your fundamental goals and values. This moment of clarity and authenticity not only inspires deep internal change but also triggers a continuous process of pleasure and brain adaptation, actively shaping your mind and behavior to align with this new perspective. This journey of self-discovery and fulfillment vividly illustrates the transformative power of the human mind and its ability to actively shape our own reality.

This brain plasticity allows our preferences and values to be shaped over time in various ways. For example, exposure to different cultures, ideas, and values ​​can lead to changes in how we perceive the world and relate to others. Similarly, positive or negative experiences can influence our preferences and behaviors, thus shaping our values ​​and priorities.

Furthermore, brain plasticity also plays a crucial role in adapting to new contexts and challenges. As we face new situations and learn from them, our brain adjusts and reorganizes to better suit the demands of the environment. This can lead to significant changes in our preferences and values ​​as we become more aware of our constantly evolving needs and aspirations.

I hope that by now, it has become clear that to answer what truly constitutes a successful life, it requires immersion, an intense and continuous introspective process seeking awareness of the reality you are creating for yourself and from there asking yourself if this is what you want for yourself now, in a minute, a month, a year, and a lifetime! Here, it is worth recalling a brilliant passage in the work ‘Thus Spoke Zarathustra’:

“I want to learn to walk on water, like you: the path of your eternity, oh great brother! Thus spoke Zarathustra. And he laughed again, and jumped out of their way; but in that very moment it seemed to him that the ground was trembling and shaking, and that the great brother was speaking thus to him: ‘Zarathustra, do not dare to deviate from the path!’ – and indeed a second time the voice was heard, and a stronger, louder, and more frightening tremor; then he stopped and said tremblingly to his heart: ‘Zarathustra, is this really the life you intend to repeat eternally?'” (Frederich Nietzsche)

As we delve into the journey of existence and explore the intricacies of authenticity and conscious choice, we are confronted with a fundamental question raised by Nietzsche: ‘Is this really the life you intend to repeat eternally?’ This question resonates like an echo in our core, prompting us to reflect on the true essence of our decisions and life choices. By relating this powerful inquiry to the theme of the search for authenticity, we are prompted to examine whether we are truly living in accordance with our deepest values and aspirations. After all, authenticity lies not only in being true to ourselves in the present, but also in making choices that resonate with our most authentic essence over time.

By embracing this philosophical reflection, we are encouraged to adopt a more conscious and deliberate approach to our lives, seeking to align our actions with our highest ideals and thus shape the course of our existence according to our true aspirations.

Allow experiences to dialogue with you, shaping new preferences and values over time; after all, we are reminded of the incredible capacity for adaptation and transformation of the human brain. This dynamic capability not only allows us to adjust to changes in the environment but also offers us the opportunity to grow, evolve, and become who we want to be throughout our lives. As Kierkegaard reminds us: ‘Amidst the vastness of existence, anguish awakens us to the urgency of choosing authentically, of forging our own path in the pursuit of meaning.’ In other words, beyond the interdisciplinary understanding of human nature, it is crucial to highlight the central role of authenticity and conscious choice in the pursuit of a meaningful life. As emphasized by Kierkegaard, authenticity is essential to forge our own path in the pursuit of meaning. In this sense, it is essential to be present in the present moment, constantly questioning if the life we are living is truly the one we desire. By becoming aware of the power of conscious choice, we can take control of our own narrative and actively shape our destiny. This ongoing reflection allows us to align our actions with our deepest values, thus creating an authentic and meaningful life.

As we come to the end of this journey of reflection on the intersection between neuroscience, philosophy, and authenticity, I invite you, dear reader, to dive even deeper into the journey of self-awareness and self-reflection. Do not settle for simply reading these words but dare to explore the depths of your own existence. Question yourselves: is the life you are living truly the one you want to repeat eternally? Amidst the daily demands and constant challenges, take a moment to connect with yourself, to listen to the inner voice that calls for authenticity and meaning. Allow yourselves to be guided by the reflections presented in this text, but also have the courage to forge your own path towards personal fulfillment. For, as Nietzsche reminds us, true wisdom lies in the courage to question and the determination to relentlessly seek the truth. May this be your journey – a journey of discovery, growth, and transformation. Ultimately, the life you live is the only one you have. Make it a life worth repeating eternally.

Lastly,

In a world filled with distractions and external pressures, it is easy to lose sight of what truly matters and succumb to the standards imposed by society. Answering for oneself ‘what truly constitutes a successful life is not easy’! Delving into the depths of one’s own soul and reconnecting with one’s most authentic values, opening the doors to a life of meaning and purpose is certainly a challenge for anyone. Hence the title of this article ‘You Are What You Do, Not What You Say You Will Do!’ Perhaps as a true provocation to seek the best in you. Awakening that ‘self’ of yours that we often lock away in our minds, either out of fear of realizing that we live ‘a life that is NOT a successful life,’ or out of fear of our own created reality and knowing that all this journey is solely responsible, ourselves!

Therefore, I hope that as we explore the intersection between psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy in understanding values, choices, and decision-making, it is evident that the fundamental basis for a meaningful and authentic life lies in the intimate connection with our own values. In this complex fabric that composes the essence of human beings, emerges the crucial importance of resisting external pressures and finding meaning in life through anchoring in our deepest values.

The journey of life is permeated by a myriad of influences and external expectations, which often divert us from the path of authenticity and lead us to follow superficial standards of success and happiness. However, by basing ourselves on our own values, we are empowered to resist these pressures, to follow our own path, and to build a life that truly resonates with who we are at our deepest core.

The moral and ethical autonomy that comes from aligning our choices and actions with our internal values allows us to live according to our principles and convictions, even in the face of adversities and challenges we encounter along the way. By embracing our values as a guiding compass, we find a source of meaning and purpose that transcends the superficialities of external success and connects us with a sense of inner integrity and wholeness.

Furthermore, by basing ourselves on our own values, we contribute to the creation of a more authentic and compassionate society, where each individual is encouraged to seek their own truth and to live according to their own principles. By respecting and honoring the diversity of human values and perspectives, we create an environment of mutual respect and understanding, where each person is valued for who they are, not for what they have.

Therefore, in summary, the importance of basing ourselves on our own values to resist external pressures and find meaning in life is fundamental to personal fulfillment and collective well-being. Only by cultivating a deep connection with our most authentic values can we truly live a life of meaning, integrity, and fulfillment, and contribute to building a more authentic, compassionate, and sustainable world for all.

The need for self-awareness and maturity to identify what truly matters to each individual is an undeniable imperative on the path to an authentic and meaningful life. The journey toward a deep understanding of our own values and priorities requires courageous introspection and a continuous commitment to personal growth.

Self-awareness is the crucial first step in this journey. Only by looking inward with honesty and authenticity can we begin to uncover our deepest motivations, true desires, and core convictions. This requires a willingness to explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment, and a readiness to confront the most difficult and challenging parts of ourselves.

Engaging in this process of self-awareness, it is also important to recognize the significance of emotional and spiritual maturity. Maturity allows us to develop a more refined understanding of our own needs and limitations, and empowers us to deal more effectively with life’s challenges and setbacks. As we mature, we learn to cultivate patience, compassion, and acceptance, both for ourselves and for others, and become better equipped to make informed and responsible decisions that are aligned with who we truly are.

Identifying what truly matters to each individual requires time, reflection, and diligent self-inquiry. It involves exploring a variety of experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints, and being open to learning from each encounter and challenge along the way. It also requires courage to challenge assumptions and expectations imposed by society and external influences, and to embrace our own truth, even when it means following a less conventional or popular path.

Thus, ultimately, highlighting the need for self-awareness and maturity to identify what truly matters to each of us is to recognize the vital importance of looking inward for guidance and clarity. Only by truly knowing ourselves and by maturing emotionally and spiritually can we hope to live an authentic, meaningful life aligned with our deepest values.

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THANK YOU FOR READING AND SEEING MARCELLO DE SOUZA IN ANOTHER EXCLUSIVE PUBLICATION ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR

Hello, I’m Marcello de Souza! I started my career in 1997 as a leader and manager in a large company in the IT and Telecommunications market. Since then, I have participated in important projects of structuring, implementation, and optimization of telecommunications networks in Brazil. Restless and passionate about behavioral and social psychology. In 2008, I decided to delve into the universe of the human mind.

Since then, I have become a professional passionate about deciphering the secrets of human behavior and catalyzing positive changes in individuals and organizations. Doctor in Social Psychology, with over 25 years of experience in Cognitive Behavioral and Human Organizational Development. With a wide-ranging career, I highlight my role as:

– Master Senior Coach and Trainer: Guiding my clients in the pursuit of goals and personal and professional development, achieving extraordinary results.

– Chief Happiness Officer (CHO): Fostering an organizational culture of happiness and well-being, boosting productivity and employee engagement.

– Expert in Language and Behavioral Development: Enhancing communication and self-awareness skills, empowering individuals to face challenges with resilience.

– Cognitive Behavioral Therapist: Using cutting-edge cognitive-behavioral therapy to help overcome obstacles and achieve a balanced mind.

– Speaker, Professor, Writer, and Researcher: Sharing valuable knowledge and ideas in events, training, and publications to inspire positive changes.

– Consultant and Mentor: Leveraging my experience in leadership and project management to identify growth opportunities and propose personalized strategies.

My solid academic background includes four postgraduates and a doctorate in Social Psychology, along with international certifications in Management, Leadership, and Cognitive Behavioral Development. My contributions in the field are widely recognized in hundreds of classes, training sessions, conferences, and published articles.

Co-author of the book “The Secret of Coaching” and author of “The Map Is Not the Territory, the Territory Is You” and “The Diet Society” (the first of a trilogy on human behavior in contemporaneity – 05/2024).

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