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Joshua Bond's avatar

Great, now I know the context for making structures for plants to grow over, sculpting, and tablet-weaving. And then I tend to lose interest in them and give them away. I like the creative process most. I'm glad I started a long time ago.

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Susan Ritter's avatar

Something beautifully poetic about this piece Colin. I think, this is one of the best expressions of western freedom I've encountered. It's the personal, individual and independent all rolled into what makes each individual unique. This is worth preserving, and perhaps our rush into AI is exactly the catalyst we needed to look inside and find that thing (or things). Thank you for sharing this amazing insight.

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The One Percent Rule's avatar

I am happy it connected with you Susan. It could indeed be the catalyst we need. Although I am also conscious of people’s need to earn a living. Nevertheless, discovering something else that brings meaning, could be a blessing for society.

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Susan Ritter's avatar

I think we can't imagine how different the world will be in 5-10 years. One of the ways to prepare is by building our interests in things that are not primarily money-generating. In a world where energy is effectively zero (fusion), and monetary systems are based on UBI redistribution, our hobbies may be all there is, to give us a sense of purpose and path to community.

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The One Percent Rule's avatar

Very, very true. Hobbies and our deep connection with others.

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Marginal Gains's avatar

An interesting and timely topic!

A few days back, in one of our discussions, you mentioned how critical it is to have multiple sources of income for our long-term survival as AI continues to reshape the job market. I couldn't agree more. With automation potentially disrupting entire industries, the ability to go beyond relying on UBI (if it even becomes a reality) will determine our financial stability and sense of purpose. I've been implementing this mindset for years to prepare for my retirement. I don't want to depend on the government or anyone else for my financial needs, AI or no AI.

Having diverse pursuits and activities will be equally crucial to staying busy and finding meaning. If we only have one or two hobbies or passions, they may start feeling like work after a while. To stay engaged, our hobbies and activities must span different areas or fields and rotate between them based on mood or circumstances. This is especially important as we get older. I've seen retired people fall into the trap of sitting in front of the TV all day, unable to find fulfilling ways to spend their time. Without a job or part-time work, it can feel like you've retired forever, which some may embrace, but many will struggle with.

I've already started working on my list of things to do once I retire in the next decade. Reading, walking, sleeping, writing, learning to draw or paint, and traveling will keep me occupied for a few decades (assuming I'm still alive and well). But I also recognize that some of these activities might become harder with age, so I'm exploring more things I can do in the long run.

Another thing that comes to mind with AI becoming part of our personal and work lives is that I'm thinking about more and more people developing family or solo entrepreneurship ventures. Instead of working for someone else. The idea is that families create businesses, and they run together with minimal reliance on outside help. It will feel like a return to the concept of a family business, but with modern technology and AI assistance, it will become more viable.

Of course, everyone has to find their path, whether with or without AI. Joseph Campbell said eloquently, "If you can see your path in front of you step by step, you know it's not your path. You make your path with every step you take. That's why it's your path." This resonates deeply with me. The journey ahead is uncertain, and that's where the excitement lies. Instead of trying to predict every step, we should focus on taking meaningful actions aligned with our values and passions.

Ultimately, I believe the key to navigating this future is adaptability. By diversifying our income, activities, and skills, we can stay resilient and create a fulfilling life, no matter what changes come our way.

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Joshua Bond's avatar

"I've been implementing this mindset for years to prepare for my retirement."

"I've already started working on my list of things to do once I retire in the next decade"

My two-penny-worth is start now; not just the mindset or the list - but start developing the practice/hobby.

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The One Percent Rule's avatar

Wholeheartedly agree - start now. Thank you Joshua

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Marginal Gains's avatar

Yes, that’s the plan.

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