People have strong opinions about what is good and bad, positive or negative in life. Yet if you ask most of them what they’re working towards, what their grand strategy for life actually is—what philosophy they’re guided by—most can’t answer.

This is a contradiction. If you don’t know what you’re trying to accomplish or what’s important to you—today or in life as a whole—you have no idea whether an event is truly good or bad. As Seneca wrote: “If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.”

Let this serve as a reminder. Without a clear plan, without a point or purpose to aim for, all your thoughts on good news and bad news, advantages and disadvantages are just pointless speculation. You have to know what you’re trying to do today—and every day. You have to know what port you’re aiming for. Otherwise, you’re just being blown around. You’re just reacting. And you’ll never end up where you want to be.

A clear sense of direction is fundamental. It gives your life structure and meaning. But how do you find this direction? It starts with introspection. Take time to reflect on what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What are your passions? What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? These are deep questions that require honest, thoughtful answers.

Once you have a clearer understanding of your values and goals, the next step is to create a plan. This doesn’t mean you need to map out every detail of your life; flexibility is important. But having a general roadmap will keep you on track. Set specific, achievable goals for yourself. Break them down into manageable steps. And most importantly, review and adjust your plan regularly to stay aligned with your evolving aspirations and circumstances.

Living with purpose also means prioritizing your time and energy. In today’s world, distractions are everywhere. Social media, television, endless notifications—all of these can pull you away from what’s truly important. It’s crucial to be mindful of how you spend your time. Focus on activities that contribute to your goals and bring you closer to your vision.

Another key aspect of living purposefully is resilience. Life is unpredictable, and you will encounter setbacks. But if you know what you’re aiming for, these obstacles become easier to navigate. Each challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, it’s not the adversity itself that defines you, but how you respond to it.

Take ownership of your life. Understand that you are the captain of your ship. External circumstances will always influence your journey, but you have the power to steer your course. Cultivate a mindset of proactive action rather than passive reaction. This means taking initiative, making decisions that align with your values, and continuously pushing forward, even when the going gets tough.

Think about the end of your day. Reflect on what you did. Did you move closer to your goals? Did you act in accordance with your values? If not, what held you back? Use these reflections to make tomorrow better. This daily practice of reflection and adjustment is what separates those who achieve their dreams from those who drift through life.

And remember, having a grand strategy doesn’t mean you ignore the present moment. In fact, being present is a crucial part of living purposefully. When you’re fully engaged in the task at hand, you perform better and enjoy life more. It’s a balance of keeping your long-term vision in mind while immersing yourself in the present.

In conclusion, knowing what you’re trying to do today—and every day—is essential for a meaningful and successful life. It’s about having a clear sense of direction, setting goals, prioritizing your time, and being resilient in the face of challenges. It’s about taking control of your life and living intentionally. So, ask yourself: What are you really going to do today? How will your actions today bring you closer to your ultimate goals? Make today count.