I think we have genetic predispositions to a certain level of prudence but that is modified by our life experiences and our mentors. It’s inherent in our humanity as a species to try to survive as long as we can. But Industrialization and the consequences of oversocialization undermine these natural tendencies. We take macro trips to foreign countries because as an advanced society, we have the means....not because we need to ....to be happy let alone sucessful as a person or community or country. If we had the means we would be taking trips to the moon and out into the infinite space. And given the ability, we would refuse to die.
Clearly, these decisions have already been predetermined. You will do what you do regardless of the wrestling of ideas in your mind. And in retrospect you will regret some things and be thankful for others. Isn’t that what the pursuit of happiness is all about. Different ways to get there? Follow your natural leanings toward self preservation but realize imprudence is going to occur along the way because taking risk and brushing up against danger is also things we crave.