The lyrics of Scatman John’s 90s hit “Scatman’s World” may seem playful and cheesy on the surface, but they hold surprising depth. Two lines from the song struck a chord with me when I was in high school:
“Everybody’s born to compete as he chooses, but how can someone win if winning means that someone loses?”
“I wanna be a human being, not a human doing.”
I don’t quite remember the specifics of my life back then, but these lines deeply resonated with me. They served as a lighthouse, guiding me toward a life of meaning—focusing on what truly matters rather than chasing empty accomplishments driven by ego. These words felt like whispers from the universe, perhaps as an indigo child, reminding me to embrace my purpose in this world.
As a teenager, though, I struggled to express myself diplomatically in a society that seemed to judge everyone so harshly. I often felt like an outsider—a “weirdo” who never quite fit into any group. Fortunately, I found a few kindred spirits along the way, but our connections were loose as we lived in different realities, each with our own priorities.
Human Doing
Reflecting on my limited experience in this world, mainly living in cities, I see how much of society pressures us to be “human doings.” We’re caught in a race to conform to mainstream expectations—constantly busy, endlessly achieving…
But is that our true purpose? Is that what we genuinely love?
Advertising and consumerism bombard us with messages that we’re “not enough” and must keep striving—chasing happiness, attractiveness, and an ideal life sold to us by others. But how often do we pause and ask ourselves if this pursuit truly gives meaning to our lives? With so little time to reflect, we become trapped in a cycle, always doing, always chasing. And yet, many of us are left unfulfilled, unhappy, and unsure of what we truly want. We simply follow what society tells us we should want.
It begs the question: Are these external expectations what give our short lives in this world true purpose?
Human Being : Purpose and Presence
As human beings, it’s vital to have purpose and to embrace the present. Purpose doesn’t need to be rigid or grandiose; it evolves with us through each phase of life. For example, your purpose might be earning enough to provide for your family, sending your children to university, and living a comfortable life. But even then, the definitions of comfort, higher education, and success are deeply personal. We must define these standards within our own means, without chasing or comparing ourselves to others whose lives hold no relevance to our own.
Most importantly, we must be present. While pursuing the best for our loved ones, we risk becoming absent, disconnected from the very warmth and love we seek to nurture. Being present in a world filled with distractions and busyness can feel counterproductive in a competitive society, but the act of slowing down is profoundly transformative. Simply breathing, smiling, listening, and being there in the moment can remind us that: We are enough.
A Simple Shift
To truly be a “human being,” not a “human doing,” reflect on what matters most to you. Define your purpose based on your own terms—what gives your life meaning and fulfillment right now. Take moments to slow down and fully engage with the present. Just be there. Stare at the sky. Smile at someone you love. Listen deeply. In these moments, you’ll realize that you are enough.
As you journey through life, let purpose guide you, and let presence anchor you.
