Patterns exist everywhere in the natural world. From the spiral patterns in sunflower seeds to the migration routes of animals across the planet, from weather systems to the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, nature is built upon complex and interconnected patterns.

So why should humans be any different? If we begin to understand and recognize our own life patterns, we can learn a great deal about ourselves—what comes naturally to us and what our true passions in life might be.

In today’s article, we share several ways to design your life through patterns, inspired by the seventh principle of permaculture.

1. Work

Try to identify the working style and environment where you thrive the most and focus more on that setting.

For example, you may be a strong writer but not particularly comfortable working with numbers. You might prefer working independently rather than in a team, or perhaps you thrive in collaborative environments. Some people prefer structured systems, while others perform better with flexibility.

Since everyone has a unique working style, it is important to identify what suits you best and guide yourself toward an environment where you can perform at your highest potential.

2. Free time

How do you spend your free time?

Observing how you use your free time can reveal your true interests and passions. If you spend most of your free time drawing, you might consider pursuing opportunities related to art. If you enjoy sports, a career connected to athletics could be a good fit. If you love cooking, perhaps becoming a chef is worth exploring.

When you are able to earn a living doing something you genuinely enjoy, your sense of satisfaction and happiness at work increases greatly. Passion not only brings fulfillment but often leads to greater success, because people tend to perform better when they truly care about what they are doing.

3. Interests

Reflect on the activities you enjoy and try to identify the ones that come naturally to you.

Sometimes people pursue certain paths simply because family or friends believe they are suitable. However, if you focus on what you truly enjoy and excel at, and dedicate more time to developing those strengths, you are more likely to achieve a higher level of success.

4. People

Observe the people around you. It is often said that your personality reflects the average of the six people closest to you.

If those individuals have negative influences or lifestyles that do not align with the life you want to build, it may become more difficult to achieve your goals. Instead, seek out role models and surround yourself with people whose habits and values inspire you.

5. Daily habits

Take time to observe your daily routines.
How many hours do you sleep?
How long is your commute?
What does your work schedule look like?
Where do you buy your groceries?

All of these everyday behaviors form patterns in your life. By observing them carefully, you can redesign these patterns to make your life more efficient and intentional.

6. Food and drink

Pay attention to how the food and drinks you consume affect your body.

How do you feel when you consume large amounts of sugar? How do you feel the day after drinking too much alcohol?

Once you become aware of how different foods and drinks influence your health and energy levels, you can begin to redesign your habits to support a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Source:
Designing Your Life with Permaculture — Josh David
https://www.permaculture.co.uk/.../design-patterns-details

This article is part of the Permaculture series, which shares approaches to designing sustainable lifestyles and practicing regenerative agriculture based on permaculture principles. 🌱