Have you ever wondered if you’re the star of your own life story—or just a background character following someone else’s script? In the age of digital interactions and social media, the concept of NPCs, or Non-Player Characters, has crept out of video games and into our everyday conversations.

NPCs are those programmed characters in games who repeat the same lines, perform the same actions, and never seem to think for themselves. But what if some of the people you encounter—online or in real life—are more like these scripted entities than we realize?

Or, even more unsettling, what if you are the NPC in someone else’s game? Let’s dive into the quirky signs that might just indicate you’re living life on autopilot, and how to tell if you—or someone else—might be an NPC.

1. You’re Always Following The Script

Do you often find yourself saying the same things over and over, regardless of the situation? If your conversations sound more like a broken record than an organic exchange, you might be running on autopilot. NPCs stick to their programming—so if you’re not mixing it up, take note!

2. You Struggle With Original Thoughts

When someone asks for your opinion, do you find yourself quoting others or repeating popular viewpoints rather than coming up with something unique? If you’re more comfortable echoing what others say than thinking critically, there’s a chance you might be an NPC in your own story.

3. You’re Stuck In Routine

If your day-to-day life feels like a series of monotonous tasks with no variation, it could be a sign. NPCs thrive in routines, doing the same thing every day without question. So, if you’re on a never-ending loop of eat, work, sleep, repeat, you might want to consider shaking things up.

4. You Avoid Complex Conversations

Do you shy away from deep or challenging discussions? NPCs often lack the ability to engage in complex topics, preferring to keep things simple and straightforward. If you tend to steer clear of nuanced debates or quickly change the subject when things get too intense, this might be a red flag.

5. Your Social Media Feeds Are Pure Repetition

Take a look at your social media activity. Are you constantly sharing the same types of posts, memes, or slogans? If your feed looks like it’s been copy-pasted from a thousand other accounts, you might be stuck in NPC mode. Real players mix it up with personal insights, unique content, and varied interactions.

6. You’re In An Echo Chamber

Are all your friends, both online and offline, basically carbon copies of each other? NPCs tend to stick to echo chambers, where everyone agrees and there’s no need for critical thinking. If you’ve surrounded yourself with people who never challenge your views, it might be time to branch out.

7. You Have A “Scripted” Bio

Does your bio or personal description sound like it could apply to just about anyone? If your self-summary is filled with generic statements, buzzwords, or empty phrases, you might be operating on an NPC template. Try injecting some individuality into how you present yourself to the world.

8. You Don’t Question The Norm

Do you find yourself accepting things as they are without questioning why? NPCs rarely think outside the box—they follow the rules without second-guessing. If you’re content with going along with whatever you’re told without asking “why,” you might be on autopilot.

9. You React Instead Of Think

When something happens, do you immediately react without considering the situation? NPCs are programmed to respond to triggers rather than think through their actions. If you’re quick to jump to conclusions or react emotionally without thinking, you might need to hit the pause button and reboot.

10. Life Feels Like A Background Role

Finally, do you feel like life is happening to you rather than you actively participating in it? If you’re just going through the motions, living someone else’s script, it might be time to take control of your own narrative and step out of the NPC role.

If NPCs are indeed real, it’s a bit unnerving to think that we might be surrounded by them—or even worse, that we could be one ourselves. The key is to stay vigilant and self-aware. If you notice yourself falling into predictable patterns or echoing the same tired phrases, it might be time to break free and reassert your autonomy.

Remember, in a world where NPCs could be blending in with the rest of us, the most important thing is to stay sharp, think critically, and ensure you’re the one steering your life’s direction. After all, the real thrill comes from being the player, not just another character in someone else’s game.