In the business world, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) serve as the compass that guides organizations toward their goals. These metrics help companies measure performance over time, identify areas for improvement, and make data-driven decisions. Recently, frameworks like OKRs (Objectives & Key Results) have gained popularity, but the fundamental principle remains the same: measuring progress objectively.
This got me thinking—what if we applied the same rigorous approach to our personal lives?
Our life is essentially a single-player performance game with a finite timeline. Just as businesses track quarterly and annual performance, should we try to have clear metrics to measure whether we’re winning at life?
Now obviously not every aspect of life can be measured, but still we could think of few metrics which actually matter.
After considerable reflection, I identified ten core areas that, when measured and maintained, create a foundation for a fulfilling life. Here’s my current framework:
Physical Health
1. Healthy Body: No hospital visit in trailing 12 months (except annual health checkup)
2. Healthy Nutrition: No digestive issues in the trailing 12 months (100% Control Over Food Supplies, be self-producer for perishables and trusted brands for remaining)
3. Healthy Sleep: Averaging 7+ hours of sleep per night over the trailing 12 months
4. Healthy Mornings: Daily 1 hour (30 mins Exercise + 30 mins Me Time) for trailing 12 months
Relationships & Time
5. Healthy Relationships: Dedicating 4+ hours daily to family for the trailing 12 months
6. Healthy Work: Maintaining 40-60 hours of focused work per week for the trailing 12 months
Financial Security
7. Healthy Finances: Maintaining a 6-month emergency fund, investments worth (Age × Annual Income), and ownership of essential assets (home, vehicle, computer)
Mental & Spiritual Growth
8. Healthy Mind: Daily 2+ hours of self-directed reading and 1+ hour of spiritual activities for the trailing 12 months
9. Healthy Family Environment: No unresolved conflicts or ongoing tensions for the trailing 12 months
Healthy World
10. Healthy Business Impact: Consistently delivering more value than cost to customers/employers
11. Health Society: Volunteer at least 1-hour per week and 1% income per month back to Society
I’ll be the very honest to admit this framework is incomplete. Life’s richness can’t be fully captured in metrics—there’s no KPI for the joy of an unexpected conversation, the satisfaction of helping a stranger, or the peace found in a quiet moment.
However, what excites me about this approach is its objectivity. These metrics remove the ambiguity from self-assessment. Instead of wondering “Am I doing well?” I can look at concrete data and know exactly where I stand.
This framework isn’t set in stone. As I grow and my priorities evolve, so too will these metrics. I plan to regularly review and update this list, adding new dimensions as I discover areas of life that deserve measurement and attention.
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. By tracking these indicators, I can identify patterns, celebrate improvements, and course-correct when necessary.
I would encourage you to create your own framework—not to turn life into a spreadsheet, but to ensure you’re intentionally investing in what matters most. Enjoy and live your life to fullest!
(Thoughts are personal but polished by GenAI companions)