My aim is to inspire people around the world one blog post at a time.
This is the place to nourish your mind, heart, body and soul.
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It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch your own business. Maybe you want to escape the rat race and find peace in simple living. Maybe you want to improve your health. Whatever your dream is, it is valid!
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Dreams without action are just dreams. But taking action doesn’t necessarily mean quitting your job and burning the ocean. Small steps matter. It is the ability to plug away consistently at something over time that is the key. Small steps add up. You’ll get there!
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If you keep building slowly and consistently with passion each day, adding value that matters to you, then the growth will take care of itself. The keys to achieving success are patience and avoiding complacency.
Billionaire to Bust?
Success often breeds ambition, which can lead to overreach when left unchecked.
The idea that pushing too far eventually catches up with individuals and businesses has been repeated throughout history.
Overreach can manifest in different ways: expanding a business too quickly, entering industries without sufficient expertise, or misusing power, which alienates supporters.
Over time, what starts as bold ambition can turn into a self-destructive force.
In modern times, a prime example is Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur who has built some of the most transformative companies of the 21st century.
Yet, despite his achievements, Musk has also become a polarising figure.
His tendency to overextend himself in business and his use of personal influence has created a significant backlash that threatens his empire.
The Enemy Inside You
In her work on vulnerability, courage, shame, and empathy, Brené Brown explores the concept of “near enemies”.
It’s a term borrowed from Buddhist philosophy, to describe attitudes or emotions that closely resemble positive qualities but can undermine or corrupt them.
Brown emphasises that distinguishing between these “near enemies” and the authentic emotions or virtues they mimic is crucial to developing healthy relationships with ourselves and others.
Her exploration of vulnerability, empathy, and connection, in particular, focuses on how close enemies can deceive us into thinking we are building real connections when, in fact, we may be maintaining emotional distance or avoiding vulnerability.
You Don’t Like Me and I Don’t Care
In a world where social media “likes” and approval seem to measure our worth, it’s no wonder many of us feel anxious about how others perceive us.
But what if we adopted a radically different perspective? What if we stopped caring about whether people liked us or not?
This is what the book “The Courage to be Disliked” by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga suggests. Here, the authors draw on the philosophy of Alfred Adler, who believed that much of our unhappiness comes from trying to meet the expectations of others.
According to Adler, our true freedom lies in relinquishing the need for approval and having the courage to live authentically, even if it means not being liked.
The Art of Persuasion
Persuasion is a cornerstone of human communication.
From convincing your friend to try your favourite restaurant to swaying a crowd to rally behind a cause, the ability to persuade is an invaluable skill.
But what makes persuasion so powerful? How does it work? To understand, we must explore Aristotle’s timeless framework: ethos, pathos, and logos.
These three pillars are at the heart of every compelling argument, and they determine whether your words will land with thunderous applause or tumble into awkward silence.
In this blog, we’ll discuss ethos, pathos, and logos, explore how they function, and examine practical examples of persuasion in action. Along the way, we’ll highlight some iconic speakers who have mastered this art.
The Digital Dopamine Trap
In the 21st century, digital technology has become integral to everyday life.
From smartphones to social media and gaming, children today grow up in an environment where access to digital devices is nearly ubiquitous.
Technology undoubtedly offers numerous benefits, such as instant access to information, enhanced communication, and learning tools, but it also has significant downsides.
One of the most concerning is the extent to which children are being left to their own devices, both figuratively and literally.
With significant access to social media, video games, and online entertainment, many children are increasingly addicted to these digital experiences.
This “dopamine cocaine” effect, driven by the same neurochemical that fuels addiction, is not only impairing children’s ability to self-regulate but is also preventing them from developing the critical life skills necessary to succeed in the real world.
The Sun Doesn’t Rise Because The Rooster Crows
Humans are natural storytellers, and the ability to draw connections is at the heart of storytelling.
When we see two events happen in sequence, we instinctively create a narrative to link them. This capacity has helped us survive, adapt, and innovate.
But as helpful as this instinct is, it can also mislead us.
Not everything is connected, and failing to recognise this has led to erroneous decisions in both personal and business life.
A classic illustration of this flawed reasoning comes from an old tale: the rooster crows and the sun rises. It doesn’t take much to see how the rooster might start believing its crowing causes the sunrise.
Of course, the sun will rise whether or not the rooster crows. Yet humans, despite our supposed superior intelligence, often fall prey to the same kind of misjudgment.
Let’s explore why we do this, how it manifests in the real world, and how we can avoid these pitfalls.
Are You Predictably Irrational?
If you randomly ask several strangers how rational they think they are, what do you think their response would be?
What would your response be?
Most people believe they are reasonably rational human beings.
However, in “Predictably Irrational”, American professor and author Dan Ariely challenges the long-standing belief that humans are fundamentally rational beings who make decisions in their best interest.
Instead, through a series of fascinating experiments and real-world examples, he reveals that we’re anything but rational.
As he shows, our decisions are shaped by invisible forces—cognitive biases and emotions—that consistently lead us astray.
What makes these irrational behaviours even more intriguing is their predictability. We tend to make the same errors repeatedly under similar circumstances.
The Magic of Momentum
Momentum is a simple concept, but it is so powerful it may seem magical. At its core, momentum is the force that propels us forward, whether in life or business.
But, understanding momentum goes far beyond Newton’s laws or catchy motivational quotes. It’s about leveraging small wins, building sustainable energy, and aligning your actions with strategic thinking.
To truly grasp the power of momentum, we need to examine its impact in multiple areas, such as science, strategy, and real-life success stories.
So, let’s begin by exploring the mental models that fuel momentum, see how initiative often dictates outcomes, and analyse how momentum has propelled some of the most iconic figures and organisations in history.
Carpe Diem - Seize The Day
As 2024 takes her last few breaths, many of you may be contemplating a few "New Year's Resolutions".
Resolutions you hope will bring about the change you desire in your life.
In doing so, you may want to consider the simple concept of Carpe Diem, a Latin phrase meaning "seize the day".
It’s a philosophy that encourages living in the present and making the most out of every moment.
This concept isn’t new and has echoed through the ages, from the poetry of Horace, who originally penned the phrase, to the impactful 1989 film "Dead Poets Society."
The film, directed by Peter Weir and starring Robin Williams as the unconventional English teacher John Keating, brings Carpe Diem to life in a way that resonates deeply with audiences.
Today, as we navigate the complexities of modern life, the lessons from this timeless film can guide us in embracing the philosophy of Carpe Diem in practical and meaningful ways.
Twenty Life Changing Paradoxes
Life is full of mysteries and contradictions that can leave us scratching our heads.
Yet, these paradoxes often carry deep wisdom, challenging our perceptions and offering profound insights.
Paradoxes challenge conventional wisdom and offer simple but profound insights into what it means to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Let’s look at some of these and embrace their contradictions so that we can navigate the complexities of life with greater ease and understanding.
Sometimes You Are The Problem
Employees quit their jobs for many reasons, but the root of the problem is often found within a company’s culture, leadership, and management practices.
When employees leave, it’s easy for employers to point fingers or blame external factors such as market trends or the employees themselves.
But the uncomfortable truth is that, in many cases, the company itself is the problem.
Here are 12 hidden reasons why employees leave a company.
What If Tomorrow Doesn’t Come?
We all live our lives assuming that tomorrow is a given; that we will always have more time. Time to pursue our dreams, patch up relationships, and do the things we’ve been putting off.
But what if tomorrow doesn’t come?
This question can make us feel uneasy or even scared, but it can also inspire us to live more fully today.
This question became painfully real for Holly Butcher, a vibrant 26-year-old from Australia who was diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. Knowing that her time on Earth was limited, Holly penned a letter that has resonated with millions across the globe.
Her letter isn’t just about death. It’s about life—how to truly live in the face of the inevitable.
Rules Worth Breaking
Rules are the bedrock of societal functioning.
They create order, predictability, and a framework within which we can operate harmoniously.
From the laws that govern nations to the rules we set in our homes, these guidelines help us navigate life more smoothly and safely. Rules ensure fairness, protect rights, and maintain a level of decorum that makes communal living possible.
Most rules are designed with good intentions; generally speaking, following them is advisable.
They often stem from collective wisdom and experience, providing a tested path to achieving specific outcomes. Rules like "don't steal" or "pay your taxes" are fundamental to the functioning of a just society.
However, not all rules are sacrosanct.
Here are some rules worth breaking, even if it goes against what we've been taught …
Your Behaviour Isn’t As Consistent As You Think
Have you ever found yourself behaving in ways that surprise even you?
One moment, you're patient and understanding; the next, you're snapping at a loved one over a minor inconvenience.
This human inconsistency is not just a quirk but a fundamental aspect of our nature.
A renowned author and thinker, Malcolm Gladwell, stumbled upon a compelling explanation for this in the book "The Person and the Situation" by Richard Nisbett and Lee Ross.
The book argues that our actions are profoundly influenced by the contexts we find ourselves in, challenging the notion that we operate with a fixed set of moral and intellectual guidelines.
Instead, at the heart of our inconsistent behaviour lies a complex interplay between our internal traits and our external circumstances.
This dual influence can make us behave in seemingly contradictory ways. We are not always as consistent as we would like to believe.
Let's look at a few explanations for this.
The Kinds of Intimacy We Need
Many of us might immediately picture romantic or physical closeness when we think of intimacy in relationships.
However, intimacy encompasses a broader range of connections essential for building strong, fulfilling relationships.
Intimacy is thus multifaceted.
Let's explore the different kinds of intimacy and understand why they are vital for healthy relationships.
By nurturing these different forms of intimacy, we can create deeper connections, enhance communication, and foster a sense of trust and understanding that leads to lasting happiness.
Fooled By Randomness
Have you ever wondered how much of your success or failure is due to sheer luck?
Nassim Nicholas Taleb, a renowned thinker and author, delves deep into this question in his book "Fooled by Randomness: The Hidden Role of Chance in Life and the Markets."
He argues that much of what we attribute to skill or foresight is often the result of randomness. In other words, we are frequently "fooled by randomness."
It can be hard to swallow, especially for those who pride themselves on their hard-earned accomplishments. However, Taleb's argument does not undermine genuine skill and effort; instead, he aims to highlight how we often overlook the significant role of chance in our successes and failures.
His thesis is both provocative and insightful.
Fifteen Life Lessons From Japanese Philosophies
Japanese philosophies are a treasure trove of wisdom, offering timeless lessons that resonate deeply with the human experience.
These philosophies, rooted in ancient traditions and cultural practices, provide insights into living a balanced, meaningful, and harmonious life.
When we integrate the lessons from philosophies like Oubaitori, Hara Hachi Bu, and Uketamo into our lives, we create a holistic approach to well-being.
These philosophies collectively teach us to appreciate our individuality, practice moderation, and gracefully accept life's ups and downs.
They remind us that life is not about striving for perfection or avoiding difficulties but about embracing our unique journey, making mindful choices, and finding peace in acceptance.
The Ways We Respond To Trauma
Trauma is like a rock thrown into a pond, creating ripples that affect everything around it. It can be a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope.
It is easy to fall into the trap of thinking that someone is weak if they aren’t as adept at dealing with trauma as you are.
However, how we respond to trauma varies significantly from person to person and is influenced by a multitude of factors such as genetics, upbringing, personality, and the nature of the traumatic event itself.
Let’s have a brief look at these.
Fortune Favours The Brave
Courage is a word that often evokes images of knights charging into battle, explorers venturing into uncharted territories, and everyday heroes standing up for what they believe in.
But what does it mean to be brave, and how does courage lead to financial or otherwise fortune?
In this article, we'll explore the concept of courage through the lens of Dr. Jordan Peterson, a Canadian psychologist, author, and media commentator.
We'll also examine how taking bold risks has led to fortune for some of history's most well-known figures.
Dr. Peterson says you must "look where you least want to".
It reminds us that growth and opportunity often lie outside our comfort zones.
I Think Therefore I Am
Descartes once famously declared, "Cogito, ergo sum," or in English, "I think, therefore I am."
This simple yet profound statement has echoed through the corridors of philosophy for centuries, sparking debates, contemplations, and reflections on the essence of existence.
So, what does it mean, and why does it matter?
First and foremost, "I think" implies the act of conscious thought. It encompasses all forms of mental activity, from pondering the mysteries of the universe to deciding what to have for breakfast.
It is the quintessence of our consciousness, the very thing that makes us aware of ourselves and the world around us.
But why is thinking so significant?
Well, it's not just about pondering the meaning of life or contemplating abstract concepts. Thinking is the very foundation of our existence. It's what separates us from mere automatons or rocks.
It's the spark that ignites our curiosity, drives our creativity, and propels us forward on the journey of self-discovery.
We can illustrate this with a few examples …