Lately, I’ve been noticing distinct patterns in how people navigate their lives, especially when it comes to purpose and fulfilment.

People tend to fall into three broad categories: some move with purpose, some chase illusions, and some are simply running away. These groups can be defined as:

• North Star Navigators: Those who follow their true calling.
• Tail Chasers: Those fixated on external success.
• Escapists: Those avoiding reality altogether.

This is a work in progress—just a first attempt at categorising these patterns. No doubt, there are nuances and subcategories I might explore in the future.

I also welcome feedback and even disagreement, as I believe diverse perspectives make the conversation richer.

1. The North Star Navigators

These individuals are guided by what I call their spiritual signature—an intrinsic sense of purpose that shapes their actions. They don’t just exist; they align their entire lives with what truly resonates with their soul.

They also understand a fundamental truth: when you follow your North Star, everything else—what I call the ‘tail’ (money, fame, reputation)—naturally follows. But the tail is never the goal; it’s just a byproduct of living in alignment.

Within this category, there are two subtypes:

• The Purists: They abandon their tails entirely. Money, fame, and reputation mean nothing to them. Their sole focus is on their journey, indifferent to external validation.
• The Embracers: They understand that their North Star naturally attracts success, and they don’t shy away from it. They let the side effects—money, fame, reputation—flow into their lives without guilt, using them as tools rather than distractions.

2. The Tail Chasers

These people are fixated on external success—money, fame, reputation. They see these things as the ultimate prize, so they tirelessly chase them, unaware that they’re actually running in circles.

Even when they hear about the North Star, they dismiss it. They don’t believe that something as intangible as a calling could ever lead to tangible rewards. Ironically, those who chase success directly often find themselves perpetually unsatisfied, as their ‘tail’ is always just out of reach.

3. The Escapists

These individuals are stuck—whether in dead-end careers, indifferent to personal growth, or unconcerned with progress. But instead of facing their dissatisfaction, they escape—through excessive travel, addictions, mindless entertainment—anything to avoid confronting reality.

This is a tragedy because every time they return from their escape, they hate their lives even more.  They don’t seek change—only temporary relief—making them prisoners of their own avoidance.

Which One Are You?

The good news is, these categories aren’t permanent. A Tail Chaser can awaken to their North Star. An Escapist can choose to break free and pursue purpose. But not everyone is meant to evolve in this lifetime—some may remain in these patterns, serving as reflections of what happens when growth is resisted, or when one’s sense of self becomes entirely dependent on external validation. Ultimately, the choice is always personal.

Do you see yourself in any of these categories? Let’s discuss in the comments!