I find that many people subscribe to some version of the “big secret” theory of life, also known by its variants “the lottery” theory and “when my ship comes in.”

The big secret theory is that there is some special talisman, some powerful mystery that once unraveled holds the key to life. Some key that once possessed unlocks a cornucopia of limitless abundance. Most might deny they think this way, but if you observe people living their lives their actions (or inactions) usually belie their words.

This big secret theory of life is magical thinking, and it is patent nonsense. It is worse than useless because it diverts people’s efforts and attention, distracts them from taking meaningful actions to propel their lives forward to their greatest potential. Instead it dissipates their energy and focus while they chase mythical pots of gold at the end of ever-distant rainbows.

You want to know the big secret of life? You ready? Sitting down?

The big secret of life is that it is a thousand and one small secrets.

Yep, that’s it. Sorry if you were expecting more.

But you got more than you may realize. The concept of small secrets is a real gem. A diamond in the rough if the analogy pleases you.

Small secrets means the secret of life is in the details, and the inspiration is in the stars.

Small secrets means the secret of life is showing up every day and doing the best you can.

Small secrets means the secret of life is in nurturing yourself and giving yourself a day off when you need one, and you can do so without shirking major responsibility.

Small secrets means the secret of life is intelligent persistence.

Small secrets means the secret of life is being a life-long learner.

Small secrets means the secret of life is accepting responsibility for your life and the consequences of your choices.

Small secrets means the secret of life is that the meaning of life is a question life asks of us, not that we ask of life.

Small secrets means the secret of life is balance.

Small secrets means the secret of life is that there are a thousand and one secrets, and the journey never ends. The journey is the destination.

This is a classic from the NSCBlog archive, originally posted March 3, 2008.