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I think the same way, and having done a bit of game development, the whole universe is like a vast game engine to me. There are so many similarites - art imitates life.

That's why I kind of don't get playing the SIMs - isn't that what we're doing all day anyway?

For me also, the video game analogy helps me understand the difference between determining my own fate, and accepting things that are outside my control. I see life as being like one huge game level or quest. There are certain preset conditions that will play out the same way no matter what I do. Like in a game level, you will reach a certain place and there will always be a mob of monsters that run out and attack you. You can't change it - it's built in, like destiny. But, you can choose how you play through that level. You can choose which way to move, what strategy to take, and how to deal with the scenario, like self-determination and controlling your own life.

Who knows, if we fail to pass the level, maybe we also get to come back and have another life. ;-)

Heh, I like to compare my skills with a game.

If you do it, you get a much better overview of your strenghts and weaknesses.

In my idea book, I have an overview of the skills I will need to get further in my business life, with an "accomplishment bar" next to it. E.g. I feel pretty confident in SEO, but I'm not a master. So the bar is quite long, and I have marked a spot on it, where I will need to go, and one that is "complete mastery". Whenever I learn or try something new, I increase the accomplishment bar a bit, and then I'm able to see how much I improve from time to time.

Makes it more fun to learn =) (You might even compare it to "leveling up", or getting new "stat points" except it's in real life!)

As for your question "Why do people play the sims, when it's what they're doing every day anyways?", I think it's because they like the possibilities they can get there, compared to real life. For example being married to the girl of their dreams, but who is married in real life. Or they can be the rockstar they've always dreamt about being. (And it's much easier to click "Play guitar", hit "fast mode" and improve really fast, rather than picking up a real guitar and play :p

- Preben