Embracing Freedom and Purpose: A Personal Philosophy of Life
Published on by Kevin Rahmad ShaputraLife is a journey, a game of exploration, discovery, and self-mastery. Some people live their lives dictated by external pressures—society’s expectations, financial obligations, or the pursuit of validation. But what if you had the ability to break free from these constraints and truly live on your own terms? This is the philosophy that guides me: a life centered on independence, enjoyment of the process, and a refusal to be bound by anything other than my own desires.
The Joy of the Process
One of the greatest realizations in my life is that fulfillment does not come from mere achievement, but from the journey itself. Many people spend their entire lives chasing something—money, status, approval—only to realize too late that the pursuit itself was more valuable than the destination.
For me, life is akin to playing a game. A game that is too easy and allows you to win effortlessly is boring and unsatisfying. The real excitement comes from the challenge, the strategy, and the unexpected turns along the way. I see my existence in much the same way—I enjoy the process of building, thinking, experimenting, and experiencing. The moment something becomes a burden, something I feel forced to do, it loses its meaning.
Independence Over Obligation
From an early age, I realized that I do not thrive under control. I do not enjoy being told what to do, and I certainly do not like being pressured into decisions that do not align with my inner desires. Many people conform to a predefined structure because they feel they have no choice, but I have always seen things differently.
I am fortunate to have financial stability and assets that allow me to live without the daily grind that most people endure. But beyond financial independence, I cherish the freedom of thought and action. The ability to wake up each day and decide, What do I want to do today? rather than What do I have to do today? is something I value deeply.
This is why I have never been drawn to the idea of running a structured business under a corporate entity. The idea of turning my passion into an obligation, answering to investors, and constantly chasing expansion for the sake of growth is not appealing. I see many people fall into the trap of starting a company, taking on unnecessary risks, and eventually becoming prisoners of their own ambitions. Instead, I would rather create things that interest me, invest wisely, and let my ideas flourish organically.
Wealth as a Tool, Not a Purpose
While I acknowledge the importance of wealth, I do not see it as the ultimate goal. Many people chase money blindly, believing that financial success alone equates to happiness. But in my view, money is merely a tool—a means to an end. It provides options, security, and the ability to explore interests without constraint, but it is not the reason to wake up in the morning.
I see wealth as a byproduct of good decision-making and strategic thinking, not as something to be pursued at the cost of my freedom. If I want to earn more, I can. But if I choose to slow down, explore other passions, or even take a break from earning altogether, I can do that too. The true wealth I possess is not just financial—it is the wealth of choice.
Investing vs. Entrepreneurship
For a long time, I considered whether I should build a business or simply invest. Many people see business as the only way to financial success, but I have realized that I am more suited to investing rather than managing a large operation.
Being an entrepreneur often comes with countless responsibilities, risks, and compromises. Investors, on the other hand, operate from a place of leverage. They analyze opportunities, place their capital where it will grow, and allow systems to work in their favor. This aligns more with my philosophy: minimal obligations, maximum efficiency. If I ever decide to build something, it will be on my terms—small, controlled, and without the constraints of corporate bureaucracy.
The Power of Saying No
One of the most liberating lessons I have learned is the power of saying no. Society often pressures people to conform—to follow certain paths, accept certain roles, and make decisions based on collective expectations rather than individual desire.
But I do not live by these rules. If something does not align with my goals or values, I have no hesitation in rejecting it. I do not seek approval, nor do I feel the need to justify my choices. I do what I do because I want to, not because I have to. This applies to everything—work, relationships, investments, and even leisure.
Many people struggle with this concept because they fear missing out or being judged. But in reality, the ability to set boundaries and focus only on what truly matters is one of the most powerful skills a person can develop.
Gratitude and Perspective
Despite my independent mindset, I remain deeply grateful for what I have. Not everyone has the privilege of designing their own life in this way, and I do not take that for granted. I recognize that my ability to think and operate freely is a luxury, one that I have earned but also one that I acknowledge as rare.
There are many who spend their entire lives in a cycle of work, obligation, and survival. I am fortunate enough to have broken free from that cycle, and for that, I am thankful. However, gratitude does not mean complacency. I continue to seek knowledge, refine my ideas, and challenge myself—because true fulfillment comes from growth, not just comfort.
Conclusion: Living on My Terms
At the core of my philosophy is a simple truth: Life should be lived on your own terms. Too many people sacrifice their happiness for external expectations, chasing things they do not truly desire, or trapping themselves in commitments they resent.
I have chosen a different path. A path where freedom, enjoyment, and personal growth take precedence over arbitrary success metrics. I have no need to prove anything to anyone, nor do I seek validation. My journey is mine alone, and that is what makes it meaningful.
For those who resonate with this mindset, I encourage you to ask yourself: Are you truly living for yourself, or for the expectations of others? Because at the end of the day, the only person who truly has to be satisfied with your life—is you.