Books often say that reading is a process of first dismantling one's worldview and then rebuilding it.
Three years ago, I began a serious yet intermittent journey of reading, mostly focusing on introductory levels of philosophy, politics, and society. Whether it was a lack of talent or poor book choices, I had always been unable to clearly define the concept of "worldview" or accurately describe my own.
It wasn't until a chat with a friend yesterday that I realized I had just come face to face with my own outlook on life.
My friend has been going on blind dates. She has a slight feeling for the man, but because he hasn't been as enthusiastic as she expected, she has been caught in a loop of confusion and anxiety.
I advised her to enrich her own life and distract herself, arguing that when it comes to relationships, following fate is the wisest approach.
However, she confessed that she has no hobbies, takes little interest in anything, and simply wants to find a man to settle down with. I noticed that many girls around her share this obsession: their life goals are often set based on the existence of a partner, and they believe that many opportunities in life can only be unlocked through a significant other, lacking individual independence and completeness. I do not despise such thinking, but this state of living and this mindset instilled a sense of fear in me—I do not wish to live this way.
I have forgotten when this started, but whenever asked what kind of person I hope to be, the first word that comes to my mind is always "independent". I insist on maintaining absolute independence, both economically and mentally, without relying on anyone else to live. I persist in digging out my deep-seated preferences and pursuing passion for life, ensuring that even when I am alone, I can find joy in my own company.
I persist in digging out my deep-seated preferences and pursuing passion for life, ensuring that even when I am alone, I can find joy in my own company.