Follow my Blog

Get new content delivered directly to your inbox.

                 8 Billion, Yeah?

I started the first workday of the year with a flash of a headline of the 8 billion mark reached for humanity. The growth rate in birth is exceedingly more than deathrate. In the United States alone population increased by a million + over the last year in 2023. How did we get here so fast? 2 centuries ago, the world’s population was 1 billion. Over the last 200 years we have 8x’d that. In just 200 years!

The fact of the matter is that it’s not roses and rainbows for everyone. This post is around perspective.

Of what one may call ‘normal’ humanitarian elements or services. Others are far dispersed from having. Take the internet. A whopping 70% of our world does not have the access to it Another 25% are without any mobile/cellular connection. If you think that is surprising how about education? 17% of the world’s population is illiterate and 93% of the world’s population has no education past High School. (Not to be taken from discrediting entrepreneur, rather more the ‘accessibility’ if chosen upon.) The daily cost of living for 48% of people of the world is less than $2USD. Read that one again. 8 quarters, 20 Dimes,40 nickels… that is about the average amount of money for about half of the world’s population…

If you have a place to stay, have access to eating healthy food, drinking clean water, have a mobile phone, you can roam on the internet, and you graduated from a college or university, you’re in very small, privileged group. Happy New Year, do not forget to count your privileges, and see if you can find a matter/cause to give back too. B/c the world needs it.

               What to look out for in 2024

In 2023 we saw the Rise of Generative AI, and Recession bells ringing.

In 2024 expect to see more questions around AI, including its backing, Energy resources, Cars, and Wellness/Longevity focuses. Below are 10 areas to look out for.

1) Autonomous Vehicles will be evaluated more

I saw my first one last month In San Francisco, and was mesmerized. A Waymo Jaguar I – pace electric. With hundreds of billions of dollars poured into the focus already, the debate and further battle will be about regulation/safety control. 2024 will make or break them.

2) The Sleep industry

From wearable devices that track the quality and quantity of your slumber to mattress covers equipped with sensors that adjust your bed’s temperature throughout the night to give an ideal night’s rest. Expect a growing industry next year. The sleep industry is expected to reach a net worth of 585 Billion dollars.

3) Growth at all costs economy

GDP won’t be everything evaluated. Community, creativity, nature and hope for the future, will all come into evaluation/ greater awareness.

Two indicators, The OECD Better Life Index and Genuine Progress Indicator  are around now as measurements to what we really want our economies to deliver, putting profit in its place as a means to better health and education.

4) Living to 100 Less rare.

Right now there are 500,000 ppl who are 100 or older, in 25 years it could be 3.5 million people, the UN estimates. (In America– currently 104,000 people are over 100 years old. (Japan, South Korea, and France, also lead the way) Geriatrics will to lead the way in being more of a medical discipline.

5) AI, but what about its energy?

2023 was the year generative artificial intelligence surged. But as a result, the energy to supply it will need to be thought up of more constructively.  LinkedIn is even considering nuclear power to satisfy its AI power needs. A data scientist and Ph.D. candidate in Amsterdam, discovered that the energy used to power AI around the world is comparable to the entire energy consumption of the Netherlands.

6) We will see AI-powered “synthetic patients

We will see AI acting in the control arm in clinical trials. Participants who receive a placebo or the current standard of care — not being human, generated by an algorithm that has sifted through the medical records of a broad and diverse patient population in order to take a place in clinical trials.

7) Countries will start to get real on Population Decline.

People all around the world are having less kids. If you aren’t well off financially, it’s extremely hard to make a decent living and start a family, and few signs are around that it is not going to get much easier.

8) The Balcony Power plant

By generating electricity from sunlight via balcony power plants, people can produce their own climate-friendly energy. Building more popularity in Germany, they are easy to set up and relatively inexpensive.

9) Creator Economy in Universities.

Expect schools to begin to educate on not only teach students about the business side of the influencer space (personal brand, sponsorship) – but also on the  necessary creativity and style for those who wish to be in front of the camera, and production. The creator economy is expected to be valued at half a trillion dollars in 2027, and schools are now listening.

10 ) Australia & EV vehicles.

Expect Australia to begin becoming a plyer in EV vehicles.. And compete with the likes of China, Japan, and the U.S. Australia is well positioned with the second largest lithium ore reserves in the world. Also holding cooper, and cobalt reserves that go into battery production.

Source:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/34-big-ideas-change-our-world-2024-linkedin-news-ktl0e?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via

Sacrifice

With Easter wrapping up, i look back at what God gave up, and ‘sacrificed’ for His people in the Crucifixion. For those that celebrate Easter, I am certain seeing Sacrifice is replicated as the same understanding. As well as Furthermore, practiced by some, during the 40 Days of Lent, leading to the Easter holiday. With the season being past us, i look back & reflect on what I gave up, and think about how the time instilled greater discipline, & resilience on the easy road traveled. Do what is easy.. do not grow. Do what is challenging.. evolve.

Sacrifice has been around for ages, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and underappreciated virtues in our modern society. At its core form, sacrifice means giving up something of value for the sake of something greater. It requires us to step outside of our own comfort zones and to think about the greater good, rather than just our own individual needs and desires. The rewards? Many, and those who are willing to make sacrifices often find that their efforts are repaid many times over.

One of the most famous examples of sacrifice comes in another biblical story of Abraham and Isaac, which my friend Gabriel reminded me of this past weekend.. and stuck with.

In this story, God asks Abraham to sacrifice his only son Isaac as a test of his faith. Abraham is willing to do so, but at the last minute, God stops him and provides a ram for the sacrifice instead. This story has been interpreted in many different ways over the years, but at its core, it is a powerful example of the lengths that some people are willing to go to in order to show their devotion to a higher power.

Of course, sacrifice doesn’t always have to be religious in nature. Many of the most profound acts of sacrifice are carried out by ordinary people who simply want to make a difference in the world.

Ultimately, sacrifice is a deeply personal choice. It is something that we all have the ability to do, but it requires a certain level of bravery, strength, and belief in oneself. When we make sacrifices, we are not just giving up something of value; we are also demonstrating our commitment to something greater than ourselves. In the act, we can lift others to do the same.

Sacrifice is a powerful and often overlooked virtue that has the potential to be your biggest ally toward healthy habits and further successful traits. Whether it is a small personal sacrifice or a large-scale sacrifice that affects entire communities, the act of giving up something for the greater good is a profound expression of courage.

The Past..for a reason

Holding onto past regrets & mistakes, will hurt & weigh us down, preventing us from moving forward in our respective journeys. Bringing up past events, and occurrences make it challenging to focus on the moment, and have proactive thinking for the future. The solution?

-Knowing we are not defined by our circumstances, or what has occurred to us.

-Adapting by acknowledging and learning from the past, while being flexible and open-minded in establishing a new approach to further situations.

Our past experiences, including our mistakes, provide valuable teachings & insights that guide us in our respective journeys. By reflecting on our past actions and outcomes, we can identify areas for improvement and avoid falling victim to similar faults. Our past experiences that didn’t pan out the way we would have wished, can build us with the priceless X-factor of resilience. We are also more than capable of developing a growth mindset and viewing challenges faced as opportunities for greater growth.

In being flexible in our approach to new situations, we can recognize that where we failed in the past, simply came to teach us a lesson. By being open-minded, creative, and trying new workarounds, we will adapt to changing circumstances and seize new opportunities.

Even though the past can be a powerful force in our lives. Memories of past times, can shape our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. While it’s natural to be influenced by the past, it’s pivotal not to get caught up or put off by it.

We are not defined by our past experiences, no matter how significant they may be. While the past can influence our ideas & behaviors, we need to be mindful in that our reaction is what leads us to become better versions of ourselves. We architect our future, not history.

What occurred is done, & served its time, and purpose. By focusing too much on it, we risk missing out on the opportunities and chances in front of us, as one of the only constants around.. TIME- continues moving along, minding its only business.. ticking, ignorant of our sentiments. We are more than questioning the What Ifs and lamenting on the Should Have Beens. We are capable, and need to be focusing on capturing what is now, and lays ahead.

Blue Zones

I first came across the term Blue Zones a few years back, when my interest in the realm of biohacking began (post to come). My attention was again recently peaked furthermore, after listing to Founder Dan Buttener speak more on the concept he coined.

Blue Zones are cities in the world that have been given a label.. that label — you guessed it a ‘Blue Zone’. These few cities are where the length of longevity stretches the longest in the population.. & for good reason. One may ask, & i know that i did..what are the classifications in order to get this label. A label that has a waiting list of 60+ & likely counting cities waiting to become added to the 5 that sit at the helm.

(In no particular order) Loma Linda, Ca, U.S. Nicoya, Costa Rica. Ikaria, Greece. Sardinia, Italy. Okinawa, Japan.

Dan B. back in 1999 set off on an exhibition, with the help of National Geographic, demographers, anthropologists, and scientists to uncover the world’s longest-living populations and the similarities between the people that comprised the cities.

Each city to qualify had to rank in the top percentages of a population of over 100 years old. Additionally, particular Diets, (Mediterranean) (lean protein, healthy carbs, alkaline organic fruits and vegetables, spring water) as examples, to being accessibly around. Community belonging activities/programs, as well as Family alignment, were also part of a classification. Research has shown time and time over, that tight-knit social communities pave the way to exponential amounts of health benefits. Another measure, and although together to quantify, the amount of sleep time/bed rest at 7-8 hours on an average.

Below, i list a footnote, if interest has been peaked into diving in deeper into some more healthier habits included, as well as a Newsletter, further articles, and overall hearing more about Dan B, and his journey to the world of Blue Zones.

The Blue Zones: The World’s Longest Life Expectancies

What to Expect

There is a lot incoming towards society/ continuing to grow. Below I pay reference on some areas that stuck with me ranging from Healthcare, to Real-estate, Big Tech, to the Environment, the Gig economy, Transportation, Retail, and everywhere in-between. (Big thanks to LinkedIn News) Their full – article written in Footnotes.

What to watch:

Number 1) Mental Health, Behavioral Health Screenings becoming less and less Tabooed upon, and more common in the world of Healthcare.

Number 2) Transportation, eVTOLs  you guessed it.. (acronym for electric flying vehicles) may be coming to a city near you with a 6 billion dollar investment already laid out across in the last 2 years. France for example, has already began testing these in preparations for the Summer Olympic games next year in Paris.

Number 3) The Gig Economy will reign! ‘Side Hustles’ will become more prevalent, as will not just having one single source (day job) especially in an unpredictable economy.

Number 4) Big Tech, the want to ‘own’ ones data, as well as have it become more privatized will continue to increase, as growing share of users will turn to smaller platforms in 2023. Such as the likes of Weare8, and Discord.

Number 5) Security, Ransomware attacks will continue more its trend, and prove to continue being one of the biggest threats we face in the world of cyberwarfare, and overall with National Security. Some of the Big Fears here being the attacks on energy/utility plants.

Number 6) Tech in Healthcare will grow in greater need & importance, as a shortage is faced to keep up with the demand of those in healthcare need. Increasingly new technologies will develop more for patients, as well as to train new healthcare workers.

Number 7) Environment, the turn to the Oceans to power our electronics.. Specifically with The Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a 1.7-million-square-mile seabed that carries polymetallic nodules, that can aid in the production of batteries

Number 8) Commercial Real Estate will take a hit, in numbers in the hundreds of Billions affecting it. Companies will opt for smaller offices, choosing to sublet the extra vacant space. 

Number 9) Environment, Extracting of Carbon Dioxide from the Air, with algae farms, electric vehicles, & clothing attire.

Number 10) Retail, the merging of online and in-person Retail. This will mean less about competition between the two worlds, and more about the worlds clashing together. With an example being.. Spotify looking to jump into the physical world.

Footnotes: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/41-big-ideas-change-our-world-2023-linkedin-news/

I first came across the term Blue Zones a few years back, when my interest in the realm of biohacking began (post to come). My attention was again recently peaked furthermore, after listing to Founder Dan Buttener speak more on the concept he coined.

Blue Zones are cities in the world that have been given a label.. that label — you guessed it a ‘Blue Zone’. These few cities are where the length of longevity stretches the longest in the population.. & for good reason. One may ask, & i know that i did..what are the classifications in order to get this label. A label that has a waiting list of 60+ & likely counting cities waiting to become added to the 5 that sit at the helm.

(In no particular order) Loma Linda, Ca, U.S. Nicoya, Costa Rica. Ikaria, Greece. Sardinia, Italy. Okinawa, Japan.

Dan B. back in 1999 set off on an exhibition, with the help of National Geographic, demographers, anthropologists, and scientists to uncover the world’s longest-living populations and the similarities between the people that comprised the cities.

Each city to qualify had to rank in the top percentages of a population of over 100 years old. Additionally, particular Diets, (Mediterranean) (lean protein, healthy carbs, alkaline organic fruits and vegetables, spring water) as examples, to being accessibly around. Community belonging activities/programs, as well as Family alignment, were also part of a classification. Research has shown time and time over, that tight-knit social communities pave the way to exponential amounts of health benefits. Another measure, and although together to quantify, the amount of sleep time/bed rest at 7-8 hours on an average.

Below, i list a few footnotes, if interest has been peaked into diving in deeper into some more healthier habits included, as well as a Newsletter, further articles, and overall hearing more about Dan B, and his journey to the world of Blue Zones!

The Blue Zones: The World’s Longest Life Expectancies

Remote? Be careful what you wish for

To choose to go in, or to not go in, or leave because you are being told you have to go in?? Tyree have been some questions some of us have contemplated on for the greater part of these last few years. It seems as if the workforce has shifted towards being a preferential market for the actual workers, which has led to a choice of Remote Working. One that avoids commute, grooming perhaps, and overall a stricter schedule. There is no denying that it allows the individual to have a much greater convenience in their time balance. The Employer has really had 2 point blank options. Either to adapt to the preferences of their workforce, or stay firm on their stance of wanting their personnel back in. Such, as in the case of Tesla- recently where from the chain of command their was an initiative that became in place to bring everyone back into its office hubs. Many differed against it, and split from the company, as regardless of the influence and reputation of the name, opted to value more their convenience of schedule at Home.

Where my argument and provoking of thought for those who value to the core being on their own flow of time at Home comes in is in that one is actually having to work ‘harder‘ at Home. Paying for their time brought back from going against the commute, or the grooming, or perhaps collogue discussions that some would consider interruptions.. The fact of the matter is when in a digital environment, if you are not online, you are not ‘working.’ There is much more of an emphasis placed on communicating adequately and precisely. Room for interpretation in what you say is significantly less. As body language and facial expressions are substituted for word choices on a MS Teams or Slack message! Which can lead to much longer working hours!

The Great Resignation is the buzzing term that has echoed all around last year and this.. but is it for actually a better gain?? When in a Remote world one may very well be overworked, through hyper-attentiveness and hyper- detailing in email and chat messages, & in some cases judged off of by a little circular green status light..

Problems?

Adversities, DIfficulties, Frustrations, Struggles. We all have them. Maybe you are dealing with a fair share now. I know I have a few, but nothing to hide away from. Something can always be bettered, no? They can’t be avoided. But they can be seen in a more favorable outlook– Such as broken down & voiced as Challenges. Opportunities to be creative, to grow resilience. We cannot afford to succumb to our lackings but rather must believe in our ability to act under pressure, & stay calm. Our beliefs must be bigger than our problems.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

JFK, a Janitor, Space, & Perspective

EI & SI

The degree-less candidate gets the job, over the Ivy league one, the smaller, disheveled kid picks up the model, over the alpha jock. The degree-less candidate and the scrawnier one walk into a room and get their way, & leave their mark. Nope, & not with an ounce of their looks, nor their credentials, but through emotional and social intelligence.

I have been fascinated by these traits, that really contribute to a human operating system, which drives individuals to hold a certain type of reputation, and maintain a distinctive awareness to the flow of things. I’m sure you all can think of somebody that fits in alignment – that can one second be the most humble person around, and the most attentive listener you’ve engaged with, to then be so confident and secure in their ways, that could lead one to believe is this a fictional character in a utopian world?

SI & EI can always be acquired… here are just a few ways in how one can maneuver around displaying the traits–

1- In conversation with someone just met at a social gathering, or in a dynamic of a social group – listen attentively, and with interest, speak only when its further wanting the other person to elaborate, or when you can contribute something that is on topic and expands on relevancy, or is further stimulating.

2- When there are moments to express one self more, speak modestly, and rather briefly, try and focus on something neutral, such as maybe storytelling. Focus on something the other side can relate too, or that further expands on an area of importance, or generates a level of awareness to a topic.

3-Know what makes others tick and being able to read social ques/body language

4- Be able to carry Self-efficacy, which at its core is belief on ones abilities

5- Balance of showing emotion, and sharing genuineness/ with showing composure, and a collected demeanor

6- Confidence combined with interest make for the perfect cocktail

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Imagine if it was all easy, & if everything was all given to you just like that? You didn’t have to work a day in your life. Margaritas in the Tropics. Your wants and wishes granted. Everything at your fingertips. No stress, never. A constant Paradise of a life. 

Sounds nice? Sure.. but the case I look to share is WHY we shouldn’t accept this way of living, even if we had a choice too. 

The fact of the matter is, our neurological composition wasn’t set up for us to be passive consumers and be truly deep down inside satisfied, when we just receive, and are not challenged. Fulfillment, comes in the sense of feeling good about oneself from producing, as I have talked about in a previous post (see footnotes). Earning something through ones dedication and concentration is far more satisfying then sitting back and receiving. 

The obvious, most apparent example here is generational wealth. It is one thing to fall in this category and embrace a lifestyle from the sheer privilege ones had, it is another to contribute back to society with the affluence and positioning one finds themselves in. 

We live in a journey of figuring it out, & the American Dream is a perfect example of a modest person being able to set their sights on something they want, and relentlessly work towards making it a reality. With a challenges we are keep invested, and with discipline, and a motive we are kept centered and focused. To an earning way of living.. not a passive one.. 

P.S: Yes, vacations are the great exception 🙂

https://wordpress.com/post/sk-creates.com/243

___________________________________________________________________________________

JW- Power of Good

If you haven’t heard the voice then you haven’t been waking up early enough.. JW is a 4am’er & up before the crack of dawn, and also one of the greatest practitioners we have in carrying out a relentless attitude towards discipline. Post his tenure serving as Lieutenant Commander for the Navy Seals 3 teams in the Middle East, he has since pivoted into bringing his armed forces swiftly acting demeanor, back to society. His tenacious approach to moving forward offers one to feel like the entire world of complaining should be banned from use..
He carries an approach, in dealing with humbleness and greater goal elevating in the good, and perspective in the not so good, that is contagious to living a morally, directionally guiding, and accomplishing life.
I recently heard about the Power of Good from Jocko, and was immediately gravitated. What it aims to accomplish is in mastering how we can react progressively to anything thrown our way (read below in footnotes an expanded past post on reaction).

The essence of the Power of Good is simple- something doesn’t go your way… you do not get what you were looking for, ready for, or desire? Right there in that split second, your attitude should go towards acceptance. No matter how disappointed, saying ok I see. More effort, that’s ok. Growth, alright.  Progressive light triggers inside saying, it’ll just mean more now. More clarity of what wasn’t to be. 

From the Ex-navy Seal himself

Mission canceled? Okay let’s focus on the other one/next one

Unexpected Problem? Okay, good opportunity to get creative

Didn’t get promoted? Okay, well more time to get better & grab a better experience 

Didn’t get funded? Okay, good we get to own more of the company

Got tapped out in jujitsu? Okay, good, better to get tapped out in training than on the street

Small tweaks to your perspective will go a long way to how quickly you move forward and take advantage of our most limited and important resource.. time, in a progressive matter.. 

Footnotes: https://sk-creates.com/2020/12/05/reaction/

___________________________________________________________________________________

Peace of Mind

Excited to grow a topic today on staying rational & level-headed in all moments. As we can be prone to letting other decisions affect us and overthink/overanalyze what lies ahead.

Let’s jump right into it – In anything, there’s going to be a yes or a no, plain and simple. The lab result will turn out well, or the girl won’t want to move forward with dating anymore. The lease manager will not qualify you for the condo, or you’ll get the scholarship. Either way in these examples, we have an answer. A path forward, be it one in want, or not. Regardless of the fact, there is clarity! The clarity in something being good or not. The clarity in knowing what we can better do in the future. We only had to invest time, time to figure out if what was for you truly was, or not.. either way, we must try, don’t we? Our monkey minds tend to prepare ourselves way too much for the ‘what if it doesn’t..’ & that isn’t healthy. Like dreading, oh man what if that blood test comes out terrible, or what if I do not get the scholarship. No favors were done there.. just precious time spent concerning.

Peace of mind is had in knowing you put in your best efforts in your actions, and that whatever the outcome is you’ll be accepting of it.

Come to the results you move forwards and react. As after, we either go forwards from our ‘good news’ or come to greater terms with how dating isn’t usually a one-hit-wonder, and our dream home, well it would have made you break from the start.

Peace of mind = putting things in your favor some more.

P.S It is useful and beneficial to judge based on your confidence in the future as well, depending on what it is of course.. not discrediting that at all. I do it as well..

You know what’s best for you, as always I just try and offer some additional perspective to what I do, am working on doing, or see as being valuable.

Control x Balance

A lot goes on in this world that we live in that at times leads you to wonder why, other times drive you crazy, and make you feel as if it isn’t fair. You can’t control these things, but yet they happen and will continue to, it’s life. You get tested frequently spend time letting them irritate and regress you… or let them go and be accepting of it all. This is one of the hardest things to do, as I’m sure everyone is aware. When you make the second decision you come to terms with knowing that you are stronger and understanding that not everything may work out the way you want to. See that is OK, it’s a process of seeing what’s for you compared to what’s not, and using that in itself for your own growth. This little fantasy world we all have in our minds of wanting to obtain as reality (dreams), can be held onto, they need too… However, we MUST be realistic with them based on our skillsets/talents, & work-ethic, & ability to remain patient. Control what you can, and know that for what you can’t, all is well, it’s a part of the journey.

________________________________________________________________________________________

Patience and Preparation

It’s all in the making… you just cannot get caught up in the difficulty, in the downs, in the moments that really make you question your decisions, or lack thereof. Stay light on your feet, & don’t lament, but rather take signs-your time is coming. You’re gonna have to WORK though man, and put things in your FAVOR way more. Play your strengths, and do not be cautious or complex when it comes to getting your plate. Be selfish for your bigger picture. Don’t go out that Saturday night when it’s Isabellas 25th birthday bash and everyone is going, because you want to be clicking on all cylinders for that Speech on Wednesday. Anticipate that dream profession/lifestyle, the dream girl. Be independent, spend time studying your physiology, & most importantly count what you have, not what’s missing. Because that’s what makes you relevant and meaningful in SOMEONE’s eyes.

________________________________________________________________________________________

Move on!

A heavy argument could be made that the greatest indicator towards growth & advancement is how well one is towards accepting unexpected change. The ever-constant of change.. happening at times when we least expect it, happening in the most unfavorable of times, and making us wonder why, why me, why now?

We are either thrown off of track & let it really affect us or take it in stride.. & I want to speak on how we can operate with the ladder, bringing to light a pragmatic perspective to how there’s no reason to spend precious time feeling in limbo or regressed.

What has been able to keep me the most level-headed is.. taking emotion out of unexpected change. To explain very logically: Everyone be it a government, company, a club/organization, or individual has their justification for making their selective choices. Some choices or decisions are far more difficult than they would want to deal with, but for them to progress forwards it has to be done, they need to make them. You, on the other hand, may be on the receiving end of a tough call – Such as a larger tax given out to your income bracket, termination of a 15 – year stay at a company based off of an economic recession, or a breakup of a relationship you thought was going to be the one. All tough breaks, all that very well shouldn’t be taken personally, but are a reality-based off of how that entity or person figured they would better progress forwards in their lives. Those tough breaks could be versed in your favor, by simple perspectives as well… okay, I got to work harder now, there’s my motivation, alright, that company yeah I don’t know I had been wanting to leave for years to move forwards with my band full time, that girl, I’m glad she told me now, and not later.. Maybe not like I needed to elaborate on, but.. DEFINITELY not taking any of them personally, but instead, spending time enjoying what we have in our lives, what is already there, or making progress in OUR field of control. So let’s progress and not regress, and adapt with the circumstances and not fret and lose sleep over them- for time is limited and on the other side lies limitless amounts of green pasture towards life pleasures, be them large or small. Remembering, you are the one who conveys a healthier, and happier reality with how well you adapt.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Routine

Somedays, we wish there were far more hours in the day to complete a productive day. Other days, we have to put out fires and are completely thrown off..

In my first post, I paid reference to our 24 – hour clock, in which our ancestry and through lightness/darkness helped dictate the hours in the day in which we are at our best.

What I look to capitalize & highlight here in this post, is more of the rationale & the importance of keeping a routine & how it can only play in your favor towards wellness and productivity. In keeping as best as we can our days ‘known’ and deriving satisfaction from what those days consist of, to reach a coveted flow state.

Of course, unforeseen circumstances and outliers in our weeks can always find their way to intervene, & that is O.K – as that is when our favorite word comes into action.. adapting. Which is for another post in itself.

Near 40% of our days are powered by habits, which means we are on auto-pilot for a good portion of our days based off of past acquired tendencies or behaviors. With knowing that our habits make a good portion of our MO, logic would say have good habits and you’ll have a prosperous routine, as they are a large part of the formula to a steady routine. The rest well it builds off of habits – such as your decision making, your ability to cope, interpersonal skills, and the list goes on.

Alongside healthy habits, we can curate as well structure & accomplishments through developing a routine.

Structure creates repetition, which leads to orientation, & with that, we have a sense of knowing where we stand, with control in our days. Taking the guesswork out of our days and making them much less difficult & simpler. Accomplishments can be felt in the sense of retaining self-esteem through having productive days. Even if it is as small as starting your day off making your bed- as you have already as minuscule as it might sound towards the rest of your day, led off on the right foot.

______________________________________________________________________________________

Perfectionism

Here is the contect: Perfectionism is all FABRICATED AND FANTASY-DRIVEN

I recently heard the phrase ‘ perfectionism is self-abuse of the highest order.’ It caught me like a deer in headlights. Coming from someone who subconsciously had been living years always wanting more, not being satisfied & being too critical of what he was doing- I consciously realized this was no longer a way to live. The fact of the matter: It is not sustainable, and the pursuit of it is filled with more resentment than fulfillment.

What way is that to live a life after all? With a newly found perspective, a lot less of a headache, and a more objective point of view- we as individuals are to pick our slots. Pick our pockets of focus that are aligned with our skill – sets & strengths and practice them.. practice them OFTEN!

Check out these 3 to see if you align under them and if so ELIMINATE.

Self-oriented perfectionism – This is when somebody is overly-excessive about their own demands on themselves.

Other – oriented perfectionism-This type has to do with the attention to detail placed on the words or actions of others around them

Socially prescribed perfectionism– Lastly, this form is where one feels the burden of society mounting on them to be perfect. External pressure to be a certain way..

We cannot & should not for that matter, please anybody/the world, nor should we be so abrasive & stern on ourselves.

To less focus on our weaknesses & deficiencies, & more magnify in on our qualities and abilities.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

BR- Obstacle is the Way

Everyone has heard it before, it is not what is thrown at you, but how you react to it, how you adapt and embrace your circumstances. ‘The Obstacle Is The Way’ leads in setting the standard towards a mind-shift change when challenges are stacked up. If there was an award for one of the more applicable, rational books written in the last decade ‘The Obstacle Is The Way’ would be on many short-lists. Author Ryan Holiday does a noteworthy job of providing imagery to make the reader feel as if he was a part of world grappling events- such as the Civil War/ World War II & the pioneering of air travel/ light. He conveys a unique perspective in the understanding of life’s adversities and backs it up with undeniable historical evidence. He uses past acclaimed individuals to demonstrate that going through the trenches is not merely supposed to be just a struggle, but rather a needed process, & one that is of dire importance to embrace towards development and acquiring greater strength.

The book’s foundation is based on the 300 BC philosophy- Stoicism, which Ryan has been the architect of modernizing in the west and around the world. In the book, he captures his argument of how true skillset, grit, and discipline are built from obstacles. Instead of being taken aback from the depths of a mission, being decisive and engaging in it, knowing the growth that lies on the other side – is more than enough in itself what should propel you. With the strategy written in 3 disciplines: perception, action, and will – its premise is digging into the ‘how’ we look at our specific problems, our attitude behind approaching them; the individuality and energy with which we interact with them, and turn them into opportunities; finally, the inner strength that we build up that allows us to deal with the inevitable losses and challenges faced.

This book is a guiding compass & filled with top-notch perspectives for anyone.

Takeaways:

Not: This is so bad. But: I can make this good

The Obstacle in the path becomes the path, never forget within every obstacle is an opportunity to improve our condition.

It doesn’t always feel that way, but constraints in life are a good thing, especially if we can accept them and let them direct us.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

A Mentality to Have

The country all saw last week as Texas became victim to a winter storm that brought the Lonestar state to a halt. Frozen temperatures and ice caused power outages to surge and water pipes to freeze, in many cases leading to no heat, and no running water for days.

The state, with not having seen temperatures like these in 30 + years, was now in a matter of days put under immense duress. A storm coming due to a cold front picking up speed in the northern plains from the heat of the Great lakes, had caught many Texans by surprise and for the most part unprepared.

When I first started to hear of some of the effects and the circumstances my attention was closely caught. The mainstream news had done well.. the mainstream media part. It wasn’t until I messaged one of my better friends, Nick Sherry that I truly got to thinking.

‘Bro I feel like sure it’s terrible but at the same time, you guys are learning about your PRIMAL beings. Survival of the fittest.. Pre-historic days’

He then responded in a diction of his that I have gotten to truly appreciate throughout the years, ‘ It has been an important experience — don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.’

The struggle and challenges from externalities, in this case, the aftermath from frigid temperatures in a place that generally speaking is not used to them, is something that in hindsight can provide us with greater strength in ourselves. If we begin to dig deeper, we can extract that yes, it was freezing in Texas, but the people saw themselves persevere. Basic human resources weren’t as plentiful, as scattered buying was undergone, so the people began to ration. Persevering, again.

Why? Not to discredit anything from Texans as they are fine people, I used to live in their land – but because when humanity is faced with adversity we enter neurologically into a fight or flight mode. Although, survival of the fittest, could be a bit drastic In the Texas snowstorm, it is that type of mentality that Nick and others likely had come to mind in the circumstances. For a truly remarkable example, I suggest looking into the plane crash in the Andes Mountains of the Uruguayan Rugby national team that 16 of the players survived after 2+ months stranded.

If you are to take anything away from this post, let it be that having a primal mindset and being prepared for anything in this life is not of choice, but rather a necessity.

Texas strong.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Reaction

We have all been there: A significant amount of effort put in to please someone, just to be disappointed by their reaction. A huge client meeting set, only to run into traffic from a wreck in front of you, makes you completely miss it. Every day, we are faced with situations that are out of our control, & that test our mood & attitude. The way you react is how you advance. It is important to remind ourselves that we cannot remain fixed or grudged on results that do not go our way. Be them little, or big. For that is time wasted, time forever gone that wasn’t spent constructively. One may say, well SK ‘not every moment in life can be constructive?’ I get that, I do. One is a fool to believe that everything in life is to work out in your favor. What I am saying, is that it is much better to accept, learn, move on, & NOT complain, blame, and be frustrated. For you are, what you feed the mind.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs

Some of us may have heard of this more than others, however familiar you are with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, one thing is evident- this model is one of the best references we have to just plain out living. I’ll be explaining symbol by symbol here, (for newcomers, that weren’t paying attention in their PYCH 101 class). Furthermore, I’ll be highlighting the divide of ‘deficiency needs’ ‘growth needs’, with the point of looking to provide an outlook to first – world & third – world means in differences. As well as emphasizing how the model can be used to check yourself as you maneuver through life’s happenings.

Physiological needs– The basics here, how we feel nourished, how we can keep our system afloat & are subconscious thoughts (breathing oxygen, heart beating), shelter- a place to rest and feel protected.

Safety needs– Security, finances/job security, how we support ourselves. Keep ourselves safe from outside forces.

Social/belonging needs– Friends/family. Care and nurture. Acceptance, intimacy, & giving are all under the umbrella.

Esteem Needs– Self-confidence & respect from other people. An evaluation of yourself. Be it status, job, education, relationship, home, etc. How you see yourself in the world.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Cognitive needs– Pursuit of knowledge & understanding/ The biggest keys to self-actualization. Cannot be blocked, because nothing will flow. The expression of the natural human need to discover, create, learn, and explore.

Aesthetic needs– The pursuit of beauty and creativity. To express oneself in pleasing ways.

Self-actualization needs– Uncovering your full potential, fulfillment. Finding what you are best- fitted for.

Self- transcendence needs– Added need. Going beyond yourself, being spiritual & charitable. The greatest sense of awareness.

All of these 8 needs are achievable, but are they all attainable for everyone? No, not everyone has the same opportunities to have these under their arms. Based of geographical location, status-level, and family interference or affection these could vary for people being able to have. That is why there is a fine divide between, ‘deficiency & growth’ needs.

Deficiency needs (Blue) meaning you cannot live without these being had and present in your life.

Growth needs (Green) meaning more along the side of luxury, pleasure, & going beyond.

For the most part, unless under an extreme situation, everybody in a first-world economic and social standing has the full 8 phases felt & attained. On the other hand, third-world- countries deal with a larger challenge. A lot of the times education is limited, social & family dynamics can have a toll, & overall opportunities can be limited for some to reach full potential, (some could be oblivious to what that even consists of).

Complaining about a job that you really wanted & didn’t get, check yourself.

Frustrated about not having enough space in your house, check yourself.

Grumpy because of a rash on your skin, check yourself.

Angry because of a bad grade, study more, & check yourself

So next time when something doesn’t go your way, or pan out how you would have liked, count your needs that are already full-filled, be thankful that you have the basic needs down, and the ‘higher echelon’ ones can be all figureoutable.

Use the model to see if how you are feeling matches up with some of your deficiency and growth needs, as it could very well pave the way to figuring out what is missing.

Thoughts? Let’s connect.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

Production V. Consumption

Innate opposites. One easy the other a bit of a stretch. This post, and really the purpose of this whole blog series is about getting more out of yourself. Capitalizing on your time, stretching yourself, being more creative. We live in a world where there is so much competition for your time & attention. If it isn’t this brand it is the other, if not this show or game the other, if not this social media platform, well the other. My urge to you is to turn the tables. In the sense of taking a stand forward and being more directional with your time- aspiring more & not submitting to mediocracy. Problem in your community? Start an initiative. Difficulty in a sales process? Do market research and implement a new one. Tired of seeing the same news on social media and T.V, the word not enticing you enough? Entice the world. Create a cooking channel, start a Shopify page on your favorite product, create a culture BLOG. The same Saturday routine, of revolving your day around the games, man your cutting yourself short. The Production V. Consumption battle will always exist, but we can make it more favorable. Some ideas can be letting our consumption be treats for our production. We can reward ourselves for our creativity, or initiatives & efforts. We could also measure and create a weekly ratio from when we produce to when we consume content. I have found when its in front of you, you are held more accountable. Let me know how I can help.

________________________________________________________________________________________

StoLat

I touched on last week the Daily Stoic, Ryan Holiday’s blog on Stoicism, and how it portrays principles of being and staying present. This time around, I wanted to bring light to the effectiveness of the philosophy, as well as getting across to the two different portrayals of being actionable through Stoicism as well as the carrying use of it.

Stoicism, in a nutshell, is endurance without complaining.  Showing resilience, in the times of adversity. Wisdom, Temperance, Courage, & Justice aligning as its four pillars & at the forefront. The Greeks brought it to light, through Zeno, in the 3rd century BC, however the Romans truly cultivated it. With Seneca and Marcus Aurelius being the main establishers and the architects in the Roman Empire.

Stoicism holds that the key to a good, happy life is the cultivation of an excellent mental state, which the Stoics identified with virtue and being rational. The ideal life is one that is in harmony with Nature, of which we are all part, and an attitude of calm indifference towards external events.

I believe more in applied Stoicism than only the teachings of it for literature or pleasure purposes. (if you are really about pleasure you may want to have a peak at Epicureanism though.) Applied in the sense, because at the end of the day, we are not near our potential without our actions! Some Stoic actions may include martial arts, cold showers, long hikes, or rock climbing, to name a few. Basically anything that stretches you out of your confront zone, shows you some struggle and allows you to have to really put your best foot forward to prevail. As an act of a philosophy, Stoicism can be used to make you stronger- willed in events of pressure, more rational in times of altercation, and overall greater positioned to withstand the wind that will try take you off your tracks. Stoic principles can lead to a better locus of control, allow you to better guard your time, as well as standing your ground. If you want to take it a step further, I suggest to look to partake in stoic actions that can grow an armor on your skin for your life!

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Present v. Productive

I have always placed a lot of emphasis in being productive. Deriving a lot of worth from my day when I feel that I accomplished ‘a lot.’ Maybe for some a winning day is when you check your To – Do List all off, or when you work till the wee hours submitting a proposal, or turning in an assignment. We all know that feeling of rejoice when you finish.. But does it come at a cost? Can you become obsessed over finishing, and the checking of the ‘next thing’, that you lose your sanity, see relationships start to falter, and become so consumed to your work that you forget to smell the roses? Upon hearing more content from two greatly expressive and conveying writers/podcasters named Ryan Holiday & Case Kenny. I began to look twice at my day to day. Both men come from a perspective of practicality combined with mindfulness. In the sense of- you can be efficient with your work or craft without getting consumed over the result of it. We must not get wired over our tasks, but rather immerse in them. You acquire more knowledge when you are present and not rushed, as well as being able to retain more. You can always be productive, but you can maximize it by being present in your craft more. So next time you see you have a million and one things to get done in the coming week, think to yourself quality over quantity. We aren’t to be on a treadmill every day of our lives! Here are links to Ryan and Case’s sites.

https://billowing-sea-7267.ck.page/79d6c63e9f

https://prsuit.com/author/case-kenny/

---

Follow My Blog

Get new content delivered directly to your inbox.