Between A and B

People often refer to their “present situation,” which, generally speaking, represents the sum total of their current circumstances. In other words it describes where they are in the present—right now. Such a concept may easily be labeled as a so-called “Point A.” In contrast, people often speak of the future or of their anticipated “future situation,” which again, simply refers to what their “present situation” will be like at some point in the future. Likewise, such a concept may easily be labeled “Point B.” It follows, in this sense, that every living person is in motion or moving from a given Point A to a given Point B (A → B). They are moving from the present to the future.

But what constitutes this movement? Through what process does a person “move” from a given point to another? At this time, it may be helpful to replace the word “circumstances” with the word “results.” What then, determines a person's results? Choices. Specifically choices and actions, the individual initiative and volition of a person. If someone is at Point A and desires to get to a given Point B, the defining factor of their “movement” from A to B can be none other than their individual choices and actions. It is because a person's choices and actions produce results that they can either bring them closer to or further from their desired destination (Point B).

It is obvious that a person's Point A must be different from their Point B. If it were not, if the circumstances which constituted A and B were identical, then no choices or actions would be necessary to “move” a person from one point to another. Indeed, strictly speaking, no “movement” would be needed. But few people, if any, can claim such a blissful state of existence. By definition, we all desire to better our circumstances to the extent possible. To be sure, whether we acknowledge it or not, we are all moving from the present to the future; we are all moving from a given Point A to a given Point B in the sense that our choices and actions today will largely determine the point we find ourselves at tomorrow. It is because of this, that the importance of defining our so-called “Point B” cannot be overstated.

Consider, for instance, a cargo ship leaving port. Without a defined destination (Point B) the ships captain would be powerless to get anywhere—except, of course, by chance. Why? Without something to direct his actions toward, the ships captain would be unable to rationally make any decision whatsoever. In other words, by knowing the ships end or destination, the captain is able to choose the actions necessary to reach that point. In the same way, without a defined destination (Point B) a person becomes unable to choose or act effectively, and as a consequence, cannot “get anywhere” except by chance. Thus, we can conclude that it is nothing less than the goals, dreams and aspirations of a person (provided they have been defined in detail), which ultimately direct their life.

Have you explicitly defined your goals and dreams? If not, what rational basis do you have to guide your decisions and actions?