The possibility matrix

I kinda like it here at the university. After being away from one for over a year now, I realise how much I’ve missed the fascinatingly varied talks, the thought-provoking conversations, the dauntingly-large libraries, … the scholarly atmosphere in general.

Being here at Cambridge has given me a lot of time to ponder. Unfortunately, I’ve squandered much of this time obsessing over decisions regarding my future. You see, I have about 6–7 months ’til the completion of my contract in Scandinavia, and people keep asking me what I plan on doing next. The fact that I haven’t a clue sometimes makes me feel like a free spirit, but more often than not, the thought terrifies me. There are so many dimensions and angles to this quandary, it quickly overwhelms me every time I start to think about it. Perhaps things will be clearer when presented in the form of my possibility matrix.

Please please please jump in with any ideas that you have.

What↓ Where→ Continue in Scandinavia? Return to the U.S.? Return to India? Explore options elsewhere?
  1. And if so, what do I do? Continue with stuff I’ve been trained to do well, or try something else new entirely?
  2. Live frugally off savings and attempt nothing noteworthy.
Work hard1 Feasible Feasible Feasible Feasible
Rely on nepotism Nontrivial Feasible Feasible Don’t know anyone
Quit life entirely2 Can’t afford Won’t allow Feasible Won’t allow

My possibility matrix

As I’ve said before, I really like choice. I hate choosing.

Alongside the table, I’ve also started to catalogue forty-two specific options for the future. As a first for this journal, the page that lists these options is password protected. You need to e-mail me for access if you really want to see it. I’m sorry, but that’s just the way it has to be.

4 thoughts on “The possibility matrix”

  1. Get married. Or travel. Preferably both.

    Forget work, career, college – these are 20th century endeavors and out of fashion and, at least to me, very one-dimensional.

    1. I agree wholeheartedly. Notice “quit (work) life entirely” is one of three major avenues.

      The other options exist only as long as there is a need to fuel the “quit life entirely” option.

  2. I can understand what u going through.. I like the comment ADI made.. find a nice girl Preferably a RICH girl
    Prefereably a single child Rich Girl..

    You get the girl, the money to travle and Work WHO WANT TO :) he he he

    But i like the way you think…

  3. LOL nice comment Adi! But don’t you think marriage is like the end of adventure ;) I’d suggest try something new. There’s a whole lot of stuff in the world to comprehend and understand. Hey, why don’t you put up an exhibit of your pictures?? (that’s the chirpy enthusiasm for your pictures talking btw :D)
    And a secret post.. oooh wonder what’s in it :)

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