Although I wouldn't say that the application process give me a chance to "define" my life, it certainly spur me into thinking deeply of what I really care about and what I want to do with my life. In this sense, it's a worthy exercise, no matter what the outcome is. It's like studying for the GMAT AWA helped me gain confidence in English writing, going through the self-reflection process of MBA application made me realize what my inner strengths and weaknesses are, and what I truly want to do in life. This thinking process worth the time and effort in and out of itself, at least for me.