Living an Infinite Life

1. Introduction: The Search for a Meaningful Life

“Have you ever reached a milestone only to wonder what’s next? Or felt exhausted by the pursuit of ‘success’ that left you feeling empty?”

So, you have your New Year goals - plans for work success, healthier relationships, a better diet, or a consistent exercise routine. All of these are worthwhile pursuits. So, what happens after you achieve them - or even if you let them lapse along the way? Does life continue as a series of endless goals and resets? Is there a better way to frame our lives so that meaning and fulfilment don’t depend on checklists and accomplishments?

For the everyday person - the parent juggling responsibilities, the worker or business owner navigating daily pressures, or the student seeking purpose - this question is especially relevant. Most of us aren’t striving for fame or fortune, but we do long for lives of substance and impact in our own quiet ways.

Philosopher and peace advocate Daisaku Ikeda offers an alternative: the human revolution. It’s the idea that the deepest kind of success doesn’t come from external accomplishments but from a profound transformation within ourselves. The real goal, he argues, is to cultivate inner growth, compassion, and courage, creating a ripple effect that influences not just our own lives but also our families, communities, and workplaces.

This article explores how Ikeda’s philosophy of the human revolution can guide the "ordinary person" toward living an "infinite life" - a life rooted in purpose, contribution, and self-discovery - transcending the highs and lows of temporary achievements.

2. What is an Infinite Life?

An infinite life isn’t about living forever or chasing success - it’s about living with purpose, courage, and compassion. Instead of measuring life by titles or possessions, it’s defined by the inner growth we experience and the small, meaningful contributions we make each day.

Daisaku Ikeda calls this transformation a "human revolution" - a shift within that allows ordinary people to make an extraordinary impact. It’s not reserved for celebrities or CEOs; it belongs to anyone who chooses to live with intention, kindness, and resilience.

Real-Life Example: Consider Eddie Woo, a Sydney teacher who made maths accessible to a student unable to attend class due to illness. His thoughtful gesture - recording school lessons - wasn’t about recognition; it was an act of service. Yet, that simple choice grew into WooTube, reaching millions worldwide and transforming the way maths is taught. Eddie’s story shows how one person, staying true to their values, can inspire change far beyond their classroom.

This is the essence of an infinite life: small acts of generosity, patience, and kindness that build a legacy over time. It’s about choosing to live a life of meaning - not for fleeting accomplishments, but for something lasting, shaped in the quiet moments of service and self-reflection.

“When we let go of ego and finite pursuits, we open ourselves to something bigger - an infinite life where service and compassion shape our impact. But how do we start living this way? The answer lies in small, consistent acts of purpose.”

3. The Human Revolution: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Impact

Daisaku Ikeda’s concept of the human revolution is powerful because it centres on the belief that true change starts from within and is accessible to anyone. Unlike the external revolutions of history, a human revolution happens in the quiet, everyday decisions we make to live with courage, wisdom, and compassion. It’s a reminder that we don’t need to be famous, wealthy, or powerful to make a difference - we just need to live our values consistently.

Ikeda teaches that when individuals improve themselves, they inevitably inspire change in their families, communities, and workplaces. This ripple effect shows that even the most ordinary lives can leave an extraordinary legacy.

Australian Example:

Consider Auntie Helen Moran, a Wiradjuri woman and advocate for Indigenous rights and foster care reform. Helen’s tireless work as a carer and mentor for Aboriginal children didn’t start with grand speeches - it began with daily, personal choices to create a safe, loving space for children in need. Her advocacy grew from her quiet dedication and eventually became a voice for lasting reform in the care system.

Global Perspective:

During a trip to the Greek islands and Japan, it was common to witness something extraordinary in its simplicity - homeowners and shop owners sweeping the streets outside their buildings every morning. This simple act isn’t mandated; it’s done with pride and a sense of responsibility to the community. The result is clean, inviting streets and a strong sense of belonging and respect. These gestures reflect a collective mindset: that small actions in daily life can maintain and even elevate the well-being of the whole community.

Asian Example:

Take the volunteers of Kyoto’s Shinto shrines and temples, who dedicate time not just to prayers but to sweeping pathways, maintaining gardens, and creating serene public spaces. Their devotion isn’t motivated by reward - it’s about contributing to something larger than themselves. This practice of quiet service reinforces the Japanese philosophy of okage-sama de ("thanks to you") - a recognition that we thrive because of mutual contributions.

These examples illustrate the essence of a human revolution. It’s not about grand gestures - it’s about ordinary people, fuelled by compassion and purpose, making choices that transform lives.

Ultimately, living an infinite life begins with small but profound actions: offering support, staying kind when it’s difficult, or standing by your principles. When we cultivate this mindset, we don’t just improve our own lives - we create a ripple of goodness that extends far beyond what we can see.

4. Letting Go of the Finite: Ego and Materialism

In a world that often measures success by material possessions, titles, and social recognition, it’s easy to become trapped in the "finite game" - a constant cycle of comparison, achievement, and fear of failure. This pursuit of external validation can leave people feeling restless and unfulfilled, even when they "win" by conventional standards.

However, it’s important to recognise that striving for the essentials of life - such as food, shelter, safety, belonging, and love - is not only natural but necessary. According to psychologist Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, these fundamental needs form the foundation of our well-being. But once these essentials are met, the endless pursuit of more - whether it’s wealth, power, or status - often leads us away from a life of true meaning.

In How Will You Measure Your Life?, Clayton Christensen argues that many people devote their time and energy to what he calls "short-term wins" - career promotions, accolades, and possessions - at the expense of their long-term values. These "finite games" can give a temporary sense of accomplishment but often leave people feeling unfulfilled in the areas that matter most: their relationships, integrity, and contribution to others.

Christensen challenges us to consider a different approach: instead of measuring our success by external milestones, we should define it by the impact we have on the people around us and the legacy we build over time. This aligns with Daisaku Ikeda’s teachings on the human revolution - that our greatest achievements come not from ego-driven pursuits, but from the quiet, consistent efforts to live by our values and serve others.

Real-Life Example:

Consider Ronni Kahn, founder of OzHarvest. After years of building a successful event management career, Kahn became disillusioned with the waste she witnessed at corporate events. Instead of striving for bigger clients and more prestige, she shifted her focus to food rescue and alleviating food insecurity. Today, OzHarvest has delivered millions of meals across Australia, proving that success is not about accumulating more for yourself but about contributing meaningfully to others.

Practical Steps to Let Go of the Finite

1. Redefine Your Metrics: Ask yourself, "How will I measure success at the end of my life?"
2. Prioritise Presence: Whether in parenting, friendships, or partnerships, be intentional with your time and energy. Quality relationships don’t flourish without regular, meaningful care.
3. Distinguish Needs from Ego: Strive for stability and connection, but be mindful when ambition starts to pull you away from your core values.
4. Focus on Contribution: Redirect your energy toward service - this could be through nurturing your family, mentoring others, or creating value in your community.

By choosing to prioritise long-term values over short-term wins, we create space for deeper connections and lasting fulfilment. Raising a family, supporting a loved one, or simply showing up for your community are some of the most profound ways to build an infinite life - one defined not by what you’ve acquired, but by the love and care you’ve given.

5. Altruism: The Heart of an Infinite Life

At the core of living an infinite life is a commitment to something greater than oneself - an ethos of service, compassion, and connection. Altruism, or the act of selflessly helping others, is not only a noble choice; it’s also one of the most profound ways to live with purpose and fulfillment.

In How Will You Measure Your Life?, Clayton Christensen emphasises that the greatest legacy we leave is often found in how we’ve uplifted those around us. Similarly, Daisaku Ikeda teaches that acts of service - no matter how small - contribute to a "human revolution" that extends beyond the individual and strengthens entire families, communities, and even nations.

Altruism isn’t always about grand gestures; it often takes the form of small but powerful daily actions. Checking in on a neighbour, listening without judgment, or mentoring someone in need can create ripple effects of positive change. By shifting our focus away from self-promotion and toward serving others, we transcend ego and connect to a deeper sense of meaning.

Real-Life Example:

In New Zealand, The Student Volunteer Army emerged after the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. What began as a group of university students offering to clear debris and provide supplies to affected communities became a grassroots movement for community service. Thousands of students across the country came together to rebuild homes, deliver meals, and offer emotional support to those in need. This spontaneous, selfless service exemplifies how ordinary people, by focusing on others in times of crisis, can create extraordinary impact.

Why Altruism is Essential:

1. It Deepens Our Sense of Connection: Acts of kindness and generosity strengthen bonds and remind us that we’re part of something larger.
2. It Shifts Our Focus from Ego: By prioritising the needs of others, we learn to let go of the need for recognition or control.
3. It Builds Resilience: When we live for more than just ourselves, challenges become easier to face, knowing that our actions contribute to the well-being of others.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Altruism

• Daily Acts of Service: Make it a habit to help someone in small ways - whether by offering your time, knowledge, or emotional support.
• Mindful Listening: Give others your full presence and empathy in conversations.
• Volunteer or Mentor: Find ways to give back to your community, whether through formal volunteering or informal mentorship.

Living an infinite life isn’t about personal glory - it’s about recognising that the true measure of success is how we care for those around us. As Christensen put it, “Don’t reserve your deepest relationships for tomorrow.” Altruism reminds us that today is the perfect time to create the kind of life - and legacy - that will endure.

6. Small Actions, Big Legacy: How to Begin Your Human Revolution

Living an infinite life doesn’t require monumental achievements - it begins with small, intentional actions. In the words of Daisaku Ikeda, "A great human revolution in just a single individual will help achieve a change in the destiny of a nation." The ripple effect of one person’s consistent kindness, resilience, and integrity can shape families, workplaces, and entire communities.

Similarly, Clayton Christensen reminds us that the seemingly small, everyday choices - how we spend our time, how we treat others, and how we nurture our values - accumulate into the legacy we leave behind. These actions may appear insignificant in the moment, but over time, they form the story of our lives.

Everyday Heroes:

• Australian Example 1: Turia Pitt, an ultra-marathon runner, author, and motivational speaker, was severely burned in a devastating bushfire during a 2011 ultramarathon in Western Australia. After enduring over 200 medical procedures and years of rehabilitation, she dedicated her life to inspiring others through her story of resilience and purpose. Turia’s journey isn’t defined by grand external achievements but by the small, daily choices she made to persevere, help others, and live with intention. Through her work with organisations like Interplast, which provides free reconstructive surgery in developing countries, she continues to demonstrate that an extraordinary legacy is built through courage and contribution.
• Australian Example 2: Rosie Batty, an advocate against domestic violence, turned personal tragedy into a national movement for change. After the tragic loss of her son in 2014, Rosie chose to dedicate her life to raising awareness and reforming policies to support survivors of domestic violence. What makes Rosie’s legacy extraordinary isn’t just the large-scale reforms she has inspired, but also the small, compassionate steps she takes to empower and support others who have experienced trauma. Her unwavering commitment reminds us that ordinary people can create extraordinary impact by showing up with courage and kindness, even in the face of profound loss.
• Asian Example: In Singapore, "uncles" and "aunties" (as elderly community caretakers are affectionately called) sweep public areas, tend to shared gardens, and assist with local events - not because they are obligated, but because they feel a sense of pride and purpose in serving their communities. These small acts of contribution create cleaner, greener spaces and foster a stronger sense of belonging.

How to Begin Your Human Revolution

1. Start with Self-Reflection: Identify areas in your life where ego or fear may be holding you back. Ask yourself, "What do I want my daily actions to say about my values?"
2. Prioritise Consistency Over Perfection: Small actions, done consistently, have far greater impact than rare, grand gestures.
3. Cultivate a Service Mindset: Look for opportunities to uplift others - mentoring a colleague, sharing your skills, or simply showing up with a listening ear.
4. Nurture Relationships: Invest time in strengthening connections with family, friends, and your community.

By embracing these small but intentional actions, you begin your own human revolution. The infinite life isn’t reserved for the extraordinary; it belongs to ordinary people who choose to live with meaning, day by day. Every moment is an opportunity to contribute, grow, and create a legacy of compassion and courage.

7. Conclusion: Living Your Human Revolution - No Regrets

Living an infinite life is not about chasing perfection, wealth, or recognition - it’s about striving to become the best version of yourself and contributing meaningfully to the lives of others. In the words of Daisaku Ikeda, "The important thing is to keep making the effort, day after day, to develop ourselves."

An infinite life is a life lived with no regrets - not because everything went according to plan, but because you chose to live with courage, purpose, and authenticity.

From everyday heroes like Turia Pitt and Rosie Batty to quiet acts of service from "uncles" and "aunties" in community spaces, these stories remind us that ordinary people can create extraordinary impact. Whether by nurturing our families, contributing to our communities, or simply showing kindness in small moments, we shape our legacy every day.

As Clayton Christensen asks, "How will you measure your life?" The answer may lie not in accolades or possessions, but in the strength of our relationships, the lives we’ve touched, and the values we’ve lived by.

When we let go of ego and the need for external validation, we can live boldly and make decisions driven by service and love rather than fear or comparison. It’s not about avoiding failure - it’s about knowing that you stayed true to your purpose. That is what it means to live with no regrets.

So, as you move forward, reflect on the ways you can make your life meaningful today. The infinite life isn’t something you chase - it’s something you create, step by step, by showing up with compassion and an unwavering commitment to your values. At the end of the day, it’s the life lived for others, with integrity and purpose, that leaves nothing behind but deep connection and lasting love.

All the best!

Frank Choy

12 January 2025

Recommended reading

How Will You Measure Your Life? by Clayton Christensen

• Key Themes: Purpose, relationships, values-driven success
• Why Read It: Christensen’s wisdom on measuring life by impact rather than accolades offers practical insights on how to live with intention in work, family, and personal growth.

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

• Key Themes: Resilience, meaning in adversity, inner freedom
• Why Read It: Frankl’s reflections on finding purpose even in suffering illustrate the importance of holding on to a "why" that transcends life’s hardships.

The Human Revolution by Daisaku Ikeda

• Key Themes: Inner transformation, peace through personal growth, service
• Why Read It: Ikeda’s work reminds readers that real change in the world starts with change within - transforming fear and ego into courage and compassion.

The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh

• Key Themes: Mindfulness, compassion, small daily actions
• Why Read It: This book offers practical steps to live more mindfully, reminding readers that true impact comes from presence and small, intentional acts.

Kitchen Table Wisdom by Rachel Naomi Remen

• Key Themes: Healing, kindness, quiet service
• Why Read It: A collection of stories from a physician who believes that everyday moments of connection and kindness have the power to heal and transform lives.

The Prophet by Khalil Gibran

• Key Themes: Purpose, love, legacy
• Why Read It: Gibran’s poetic reflections on key aspects of life - love, service, and death - are timeless reminders of what truly matters in living a meaningful life.

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown

• Key Themes: Vulnerability, authenticity, courage
• Why Read It: This book explores how embracing imperfection and letting go of comparison can free us to live with more purpose, connection, and joy.

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

• Key Themes: Reciprocity, humility, service to nature
• Why Read It: This beautiful blend of Indigenous wisdom and science teaches that living an infinite life includes how we care for the Earth and act with gratitude and stewardship.

The Art of Happiness by The Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler

• Key Themes: Compassion, resilience, purpose
• Why Read It: This book offers profound lessons on how cultivating compassion and connection can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life, regardless of circumstances.

The Resilience Project by Hugh van Cuylenburg

• Key Themes: Gratitude, empathy, mindfulness
• Why Read It: Van Cuylenburg’s relatable storytelling and focus on small, daily habits show how living with purpose and service leads to resilience and well-being.