Principles
Using the framework, the principles act as a connective tissue that tie together the dynamics, mechanics, and components. These principles describe the broader concepts of life, offering a structure that helps us navigate the game while also organizing its rules.
I
Principle of Independence
Each player is playing their own game
While every player is playing in the same space—our world—everyone is playing their own game. The framework, rules, and tools of the Game of Life provide structure for every game, leaving room for customization by the player. This is reflected in our unique definitions of win states, differing perspectives, challenges, and more. Each game being independent of others does not negate our ability to benefit from connections with other players. We interact with others in ways such as cooperation and providing feedback, which can enhance each player’s game in its own way. When two players' paths cross closely—such as through raising a family with a significant other—it doesn’t mean their games unify. This idea is key because it is the individuality between people, even in close relationships, that allows these connections to become so powerful. Our games happening separately from others is not a barrier, but rather an asset to both our well-being and our ability to connect deeply with others.
II
Principle of Control
The only thing a player can control is their avatar
Our controllers can only manipulate our players. While we can have our avatars communicate with other avatars for as long as we wish, we cannot command them. In life, despite all the influence we may exert on others, we ultimately have no control over anyone else. This means people will think and act differently from us, and plans will often change as a result. The only thing we truly control is ourselves—how we respond to the actions and behaviors of others. We can choose which interactions and relationships to invest in based on who people are and how they align with our values. In navigating the world, we should act in the way we believe is right, focusing on doing our best for ourselves. To influence others, we can share our thoughts and ideas, hoping to inspire or guide, but it is up to each person to decide their own path. Ultimately, our greatest impact comes from living by example, not from controlling outcomes. Another important distinction to make is that our thoughts and feelings are not a part of us. We cannot control everything we think or feel, but only how we respond to them.
III
Principle of Connection
Other players are essential to one's game
Even though each player is on their own unique journey, the people around us play a crucial role in shaping our game. Our interactions with others are essential to both our well-being and personal growth. Through relationships, shared experiences, and love, we find a sense of belonging that transcends our individual path. Whether through feedback, collaboration, or healthy competition, our connections with others help us progress and enrich our journey. Mutual support benefits both players, and by helping others, we often strengthen our own game. We learn not only through direct help but also by observing the diversity of perspectives others bring. These differences enable us to approach challenges with fresh insights, enriching our experience. Even conflict can foster growth, pushing us to reflect on our own beliefs and actions. Ultimately, how we connect with others reveals much about who we are, as our external relationships mirror our internal state.
IV
Principle of Self Confidence and Care
The relationship between a player and their avatar is most important
Before any relationship we form with another player or any quest we want to undergo, we must establish a strong relationship with ourselves. This means finding inner confidence; to find security and success from the external world, we must first find security within our avatars. This also means taking care of ourselves to optimize both our physical and mental health. In our game, we have several tools we can use to play at our best. Yet the most important tool we have is ourselves, for if we are not functioning at our optimal level, nothing else will function as we want.
V
Principle of Cyclicality
The game is cyclical
The nature of the game is cyclical. There are inevitable “highs” and “lows” that will always come and go. This is reflected through periods of happiness and success followed by those of hardship or failure. Both types of moments are equally important: the highs can validate our progress and the lows can help us grow, challenge us, and build our resilience. Therefore, both the “positives” and “negatives” in our game should be embraced.
VI
-∞ 0 ∞
Principle of the Spectrum
Every element lies on a spectrum, and both extremes should be avoided
Every element in our game—such as an emotion, challenge, or quest—exists on a spectrum. We often assign positive value to one end and negative to the other, but extremes on either side can be unhealthy and lead to imbalance. Even the exact midpoint can represent a restrictive neutrality. To live a healthy life, we should apply each element flexibly, finding balance somewhere between the extremes without fixating on the midpoint.
VII
Principle of Engagement
While the five dynamics give life meaning, only by fully engaging with them can they truly shape our growth
Though the five dynamics—relationships, constraints, progression, narrative, and emotion—give life purpose, only by fully experiencing, engaging with, and responding to them can they reveal their true meaning. It is not enough for these dynamics to shape our growth passively; from building relationships and experiencing our emotions to staying mindful of our progression, we must actively engage in ways such as by being present, embracing change, and remaining open to learning.
Every game is interconnected
VIII
Principle of Interconnectivity
Although our games are independent, they are still interconnected within the broader world we share. While our quests, transactions, and experiences are unique to our game, they extend beyond ourselves. Our actions, emotions, and decisions impact others, just as we are shaped by the world and the other players around us.