When we pass from this life, we report back to our larger consciousness about all that we have done and experienced. Then, we work with that larger consciousness, and our Spirit Guides, to decide whether or not to reincarnate. If we choose to reincarnate, we can plan the broad outline of our next life. Once we are here, we have free will and can make choices. If we choose not to reincarnate, we can explore other dimensions.
Eventually, when we feel whole and no longer in need of life experiences, we return to our Source, the Source of Everything. And, that Source is not something separate from us. We are always connected to that Source; we are part of it -- like a mother ship which sends out smaller vessels. Our personal consciousness is an extension of a universal consciousness.
There's much to understand if we decide to delve into the way life works.