Don’t Be a Non Player Character (NPC)

During an election year, it is nearly impossible not to draw parallels between human behavior and the role of non-player characters (NPCs) in video games. Just as NPCs follow predefined routines and scripts, many people seem to navigate their daily lives on autopilot, adhering to predictable patterns and social scripts. This commentary explores how modern-day humans often mirror the behavior of NPCs, highlighting the implications of such automatism in our society.

Much like NPCs, many individuals follow highly predictable routines. From the moment they wake up to the time they go to bed, their days are often structured around repetitive tasks—commuting to work, performing job duties, returning home, and engaging in leisure activities that are largely routine. This predictability can provide a sense of stability and comfort, but it can also lead to a life that feels monotonous and unremarkable.

Social interactions often follow unwritten scripts, with people adhering to expected norms and responses. Common greetings, small talk, and workplace pleasantries can feel like the dialogue trees of NPCs—limited in variation and depth. While these interactions serve to maintain social cohesion and politeness, they can also lack genuine connection and spontaneity.

In our tech-driven world, automation plays a significant role in shaping human behavior. From automated workflows and smart home devices to algorithms that predict our preferences, technology encourages us to operate within set parameters, much like NPCs. This reliance on automation can enhance efficiency and convenience but may also diminish our capacity for critical thinking and creativity.

Social media platforms, governed by algorithms designed to maximize engagement, further reinforce NPC-like behavior. Users often find themselves trapped in echo chambers, consuming content that aligns with their existing beliefs and preferences. This can lead to a homogeneous experience where individuals, much like NPCs, are guided by external forces rather than their own independent thought.

The Consequences of Automatism

One of the most significant implications of living like NPCs is the potential loss of personal agency. When our actions are dictated by routine and technology, we risk becoming passive participants in our own lives. This can lead to a sense of disconnection and dissatisfaction, as we may feel that we are merely going through the motions rather than actively shaping our destinies.

Creativity thrives on novelty and unpredictability—traits that are often stifled by rigid routines and scripted interactions. When we operate on autopilot, we may miss opportunities for creative thinking and problem-solving. Just as NPCs lack the ability to deviate from their programming, humans can become constrained by their habits and social conditioning.

To counteract the NPC-like tendencies in our lives, embracing mindfulness can be a powerful antidote. By being present in the moment and consciously engaging with our surroundings, we can break free from the grip of routine and automation. Mindfulness encourages us to appreciate the nuances of our experiences and fosters a deeper connection with ourselves and others.

Building authentic relationships requires moving beyond scripted interactions. Engaging in meaningful conversations, expressing vulnerability, and actively listening can help us form deeper connections. By prioritizing quality over quantity in our social interactions, we can create a more fulfilling and enriching social life.

Rekindling our sense of curiosity and creativity is essential for breaking the cycle of automatism. Exploring new hobbies, learning new skills, and challenging ourselves to think outside the box can invigorate our lives with a sense of purpose and excitement. By stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown, we can reclaim our agency and rediscover the joy of spontaneous exploration.

While the comparison between modern humans and NPCs may seem whimsical, it underscores a deeper truth about the nature of contemporary life. The routines, scripts, and technological influences that shape our behavior can lead to a life that feels automated and uninspired. By embracing mindfulness, fostering genuine connections, and cultivating creativity, we can break free from the NPC mindset and reclaim our role as active, engaged participants in the vibrant tapestry of human experience.