Evolutionary Pragmatism: The flux of being

The most fundamental fact is that life is a flux; the only thing permanent is change. Let us say we, as human beings, are meant to evolve in all possible ways, biologically, emotionally, desire-wise, and so on. In a world that has currently evolved to move forward, I believe pragmatism in approaching things is fundamental. Nevertheless, we can always choose to have some things as static—something, like ideals or values that define our core personality. And while navigating these steps, I strongly believe it is important to take pauses, appreciate or feel the static things we have carried along, and continue again.

The Ego and the Atman

The important thing to note here is that whatever static things we assume as our personality, they are the “I” for us, which is our Ego (I think therefore I am). And, other than the Self—The Deepest—The Atman, the so-called “this is who I am” is also just our mind’s way of thinking and connecting with the world. And we always have the flexibility to change our “static things,” for the only permanent thing is the state of Being.

The Illusion of Materialistic Endpoints

Skeptics can argue that once someone hits all that ideal materialistic possession, they can choose to live an entirely static life. However, the evolution I mean is not limited to the boundaries of materialistic possession. Imagine reaching your 50s with a big house, lots of savings, kids settled up, and whatever. However, you still will have countless thoughts coming in, countless emotions flowing. While a person can have mastered their proclivity to the “I” to harness it for their best selves only, we can’t deny that there is always a chance of harnessing negativity.

The Objective Lens of Growth

One can argue that at that age, we will not have much to do in the first place, and even if we have some negative evolution, our experience will certainly help us yield towards happiness. But I wonder, with a mind wired to live evolved in a pragmatic world, can it divert towards positivity only through experience? I also wonder if the mind and the body have already grown old—compare it to how they were in their 20s or 30s. This is not to add to the already highly debated “Money can’t buy happiness” debate, but a call to think objectively about human development and growth through the lens of evolution.