Adaptivism

Nonexistent Binaries

Adaptivism Pillar One: Contradiction as a Fundamental Reality

Attempting to solidify the ideal way to live is possible in theory, but ultimately fails to capture the various contexts and unknowable complexities that shape each person’s journey. Every life unfolds differently, shaped by circumstances, choices, and unexpected turns. The only real certainty is that no single, unchanging formula works for every individual.

Some people look for clear structures to follow, rules or guidelines that promise success, fulfillment, or happiness. But strict and rigid systems, whether built on ambition, discipline, compassion, or even personal freedom, often break down when tested against reality. Life is unpredictable, full of contradictions, and shaped as much by what we don’t control as what we do. Instead of searching for a universal plan, let me suggest a looser alternative: adaptation. Adjusting, choosing, and shaping lifestyle and meaning along the way.

Engagement

As much as theory can bring clarity, life isn’t something that happens in theory. It happens in action, in decisions made, in time spent. Some people drift, waiting for direction to appear, while others seize control, carving out their own purpose. Neither approach guarantees satisfaction, but the difference is that one assumes choice and responsibility while the other forfeits to chance. The way forward is through engagement: being present, seeking out experience, and taking an active role in shaping what happens next.

This doesn’t mean constant motion or an endless grind toward self improvement. It just means showing up. Paying attention. Taking responsibility for the small choices that, over time, eventually define who you become. It means understanding that waiting too long for the perfect moment is just another method of letting time slip away, therefore choosing to act without waiting for opportunity to arise on its own.

Adaptation

No matter how carefully a plan is made, life has a way of dismantling expectations. You can theoretically attempt to cover every detail, every base, every condition or possible circumstance, but you will never practically address everything. Unexpected situations and unforeseen consequences are inevitable due to the complex, interconnected, and unpredictable nature of reality.

Additionally, the person you are now isn’t the person you were five years ago, two months ago, or even ten minutes ago, and it won’t be the person you become tomorrow, at a certain point, or even on your deathbed. People change, circumstances shift, and what once seemed essential or character defining can lose all meaning and become a betrayal of integrity.

The best course isn’t one that resists change or allows it to completely take control, it’s the one that moves with and acts alongside it. Sticking to a rigid life plan out of fear or pride or expectation only leads to stagnation. Neglecting to have a plan at all because of the complexity of reality also leads to stagnation. The people who thrive are the ones who are willing to define and to pivot, to clarify and to reassess, and to continuously move forward with what they’ve learned. Flexibility isn’t weakness, it’s the ability to let go of past or present versions of yourself and adjust to new realities without stretching too far. Life is an experiment. All we can do is the best that we know, so we should all strive to know more.

Contradiction

No perfect answers exist. Every path involves compromise, every decision comes with trade-offs, and every person carries contradictions within themselves. You might be able to resolve some of these conflicts, but others you will simply have to learn to live with.

It’s possible to chase success while questioning if it really matters. To seek connection while valuing independence. To work towards healthiness while enjoying gluttony. To selfishly prioritize personal success while selflessly supporting others. To chase truth while upholding belief, principle, and emotion. To fear the future while nonetheless striving to redefine it. To hope for the best while preparing for the worst. To say one thing but think another. To be brave while still being afraid. To uphold justice and order while making exceptions. To find meaning despite knowing that meaning is often created. To crave stability while yearning for adventure and change. To desire freedom while finding comfort in routine and predictability. To advocate for peace while occasionally recognizing the necessity of conflict. To dream big while being grounded in practicality and realism. To pursue knowledge and understanding while acknowledging the limits of what can be known. To seek control over your life while accepting the unpredictability of life and the future. Trying to resolve every contradiction is an impossible task, and a relentless pursuit of certainty often leads to frustration instead of clarity.

At a certain point, peace comes not from finding all the answers, but from learning to exist without them. Life is fundamentally unpredictable, but we can learn a thing or two.