Many people set resolutions, but often they remain fantasies. However, the underlying hope of becoming a better version of oneself is admirable.

Embracing New Year's Resolutions

Aspirations often require forming new habits, which can be challenging amidst a busy schedule. However, the workplace provides a substantial daily block of time for potential improvement.

Overcoming the Challenge of New Habits

Devoting just 10% of the workday to deliberate practice can significantly contribute to personal and professional advancement.

Investing Time in Deliberate Practice

Reflecting on personal career advancement, dedicating time to getting better at existing skills proved to be the key.

Advancement Through Commitment

Experience can streamline familiar tasks, but it might hinder exploration of new approaches. Actively choosing the longer route and focusing on aesthetics through deliberate practice can lead to novel solutions and continuous learning.

Programming: Balancing Experience and Innovation

Searching for aesthetic satisfaction in work, characterized by clarity, cohesion, consistency, and conciseness, often unveils valuable lessons.

The Beauty of Aesthetic Satisfaction

A practical way to apply aesthetic principles is by repeatedly reading and rewriting drafts, whether in programming or decision-making.

Practical Implementation: Reading and Rewriting

The pull request serves not only as a collaborative tool with others but also as a means of self-collaboration. It offers a comprehensive view of the work, aiding in evaluating both functionality and design.

Collaboration with Self: The Pull Request

Juniors often overlook the value of careful, repeated study of their own work, whether in programming or other disciplines. Refining techniques early pays off throughout one's career.

The Importance of Self-Study

Applying the repetition loop—write, revise, repeat—similar to doing reps in a gym, enhances writing skills over time. Incremental improvements through consistent effort yield significant results.

Writing: The Repetition Loop

Career growth is a marathon, not a sprint. Taking time to refine skills pays dividends throughout a long career. Prioritizing quality over speed is essential for long-term success.

The Intellectual Iron Man

Acknowledging the incremental pursuit of betterment and dedicating time to refine techniques is crucial for professional growth. Slowing down to do things smoothly ultimately leads to increased efficiency.

Deciding What Matters

Work provides ample opportunities for improvement; the main challenge is the will to seize them. Make 2024 count by moving obstacles and witnessing the transformative power of a year dedicated to growth.

Seizing Opportunities in 2024

productivity

Productivity

career

Career

personaldevelopment

Personal Development

education

Learning & Education

Commit to Competence in 2024: A Guide to Professional Growth

Syndrome where median nerve is compressed under the flexor retinaculum.

What Is It? 

<ol><li>Repeated activity of wrist, first 3 fingers (e.g- desk job/laptop usage where we rest our wrist on the edge of the table for years)</li><li>Inflammation at joint (RA, OA wrist)</li><li>Post trauma (Colle's fracture)</li><li>Hormones (Acromegaly)</li><li>Space Occupying Lesions at wrist (Tumor, Ganglion)</li><li>Unknown </li></ol>

What Are The Causes?

CTS progresses in 4 stages. <ul><li>Stage I - discomfort in wrist, first 3 fingers, morning stiffness.</li><li>Stage II - localised tingling pain, numbness.</li><li>Stage III - clumsy hand, loss of grip. </li><li>Stage IV - sensory loss along first 3 fingers, hand muscle atrophy/wasting.</li></ul>

Symptoms & Features 

<ol><li>Phalen's Test </li><li>Reverse Phalen's Test </li><li>Carpal Compression Test </li><li>NCV, EMG </li><li>Blood Test ( to rule out other affections</li></ol>

Tests For Diagnosis? 

It is important to understand that Surgical method is the last resort. It can be managed by just Physiotherapy! <ol><li>Physiotherapy - exercises, stretching</li><li>NSAIDs - for temporary pain relief</li><li>Steroid injection</li><li>Surgical decompression - slitting the flexor retinaculum.</li></ol>

How To Manage 

You don't need to wait for the symptoms to appear in order to manage the condition! Preventive measures are of more importance specially for those who have a desk job<ol><li>Timely break from typing/ laptop work</li><li>Correct, ergonomically appropriate desk, chair (the table height matters!) If you want add a cushioning to the edge of the table</li><li>Wrist exercises : rotations, flexion-extention(up-down movt), stretches regularly at work. </li><li>Equal amount of rest to our wrist and fingers is required as for our brain! </li></ol>

Prevention 

Do you wake with pins and needles and numbness at night in your hand?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.

The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.

Do one thing every day that scares you.

Cultivate vigor, patience, will, purity; avoid malice and pride. Then, you will achieve your destiny."

You have the right to work, but never to the fruit of the work.

“Even if one’s father is a misdemeanor, even if the world abandons him, it is the duty of the son to worship the father like God.”

Understand yourself and those around you.

psychology

Psychology

mindfulness

Mindfulness

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

Rising from Falls: Wisdom from Inspirational Minds

Brain asymmetry defines a neurological peculiarity in which there are structural and functional differences between the two hemispheres. This affects many areas of human development. Not all people show the same anatomical shape of this organ. As a matter of fact, each human brain is unique and presents particular characteristics.In 1864, the neurologist, Paul Broca, discovered that this functional asymmetry caused language to be located, to a greater degree, in the left hemisphere. Lateralization (being right-handed or left-handed) is linked to structural asymmetries of the cerebral cortex.

Brain asymmetry

Cerebral asymmetry affects behavioral, cognitive, and psychological domains . The impact of this anatomical and functional characteristic is such that, a study conducted by the University of León (Spain), claims there’s a need to promote neuropsychology as a mechanism to better understand learning processes in humans. Mental conditions such as schizophrenia reveal certain brain asymmetry in areas that mediate exhaustion and lack of initiative (apathy).

The effects of neurological asymmetry

The asymmetry of the brain could explain why people are right or left-handed. However, according to an article published in the journal, PNAS, there seems to be a genetic trigger. It seems that, while being left-handed is associated with differences in brain asymmetry, the same happens in some regions linked to language, manual control, vision, and working memory.While in right-handers, the left hemisphere controls the dominant right hand, in left-handers, it’s the opposite.

Laterality

Cerebral asymmetry is a fundamental characteristic of the organization of the nervous system. It can create anatomical variations and alter the functioning of multiple neurological processes. Therefore, it’s not surprising that this biological peculiarity triggers a number of mental health problems.

Mental disorders and brain asymmetry

<ul><li>Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder</li><li>ASD (autism spectrum disorder). Sufferers exhibit altered lateralized neurodevelopment. However, scientists highlight the need to carry out further research and reviews to reach clearer conclusions</li><li>Theres a link between major depression and brain asymmetry. It claims there’s less activity in the left hemisphere and hyperactivity in the right frontal area</li><li>A study claims patients with schizophrenia present greater asymmetry in their gray matter . This anomaly appears during a child’s neurodevelopment</li></ul>

Common Disorders

Curiously, the asymmetry of the brain makes us have a greater tendency to chew on one side and not the other. A study conducted by the University of Barcelona (Spain) states that this preference is the effect of lateralization and particularities in the neurological anatomy between the hemispheres.Predilections have been found in the use of sensory organs such as the eyes , with the right being the preferred one in most cases. If you want to know what your preference is, try looking through a lock. Which eye do you automatically use?

A favorite side to chew on and a favorite eye to look with

We should clarify that creative thinking requires using a good part of both hemispheres. This cognitive process demands high doses of intuition and imagination, combined with logical analysis, reasoning, reading, and language.The researchers discovered that the most creative people exhibit brain asymmetry linked to the functionality of dopamine. In fact, these individuals receive a lower level of this neurotransmitter in their right hemisphere. This allows them to combine remote and original concepts to shape innovative and effective ideas.

Do most creative people have any brain asymmetry?

Brain asymmetry affects various psychological areas of the human being, including mental disorders. Find out more here.

problemsolving

Problem Solving

creativity

Creativity

scienceandnature

Science & Nature

Brain Asymmetry and Psychological Processes

In 'A Christmas Carol' by Dickens, we learn that tough experiences don't just happen once and disappear. They hang around, coming back again, much like Freud later explained. It's a deep idea that helps us understand why certain experiences stay with us.

Trauma Stays with Us  

Scrooge's grumpiness isn't just about being old; it goes back to his lonely childhood. Dickens shows us how our early years can shape who we become. It's a reminder to consider people's pasts when understanding them.

Scrooge's Lonely Childhood 

Even before Freud, Dickens suggests that facing and mourning our past can be healing. Scrooge's journey involves tears and acceptance. It's a touching idea that tells us embracing our history, with all its pain, can lead to personal growth.

Healing through Mourning

movies

Movies & Shows

Lessons from 'A Christmas Carol'

This concept explores the transformative role of cooking in human evolution. Cooking, a seemingly mundane activity, is a key factor that set early humans apart from other animals. It involves the use of fire to prepare food, which had profound implications. Firstly, cooked food is easier to digest, allowing early humans to absorb more nutrients and energy, which contributed to brain growth and development.

How Cooking Distinguished Humans from Animals

Humans have unusually large brains relative to their body size, a trait that sets us apart from many other species. This significant brain size has a direct impact on our metabolic demands. The brain, despite being only about 2% of our body weight, consumes approximately 20% of our energy intake.

Brain Power: Why Our Large Brains Demand More Fuel

Cooking is a pivotal process that transforms raw food into forms that are not only more palatable but also more nutritious and safe for consumption. The act of cooking involves applying heat to food, which fundamentally changes its chemical and physical properties. This transformation has several key benefits:<ul><li>Increased Nutrient Availability</li><li>Enhanced Flavor and Texture</li><li>﻿Food Preservation</li></ul>

 Enhancing Nutrition and Safety in Food

Explanation: The advancement of cooking techniques has had a profound impact on human society, far beyond just the realm of food preparation. As cooking methods evolved, they inadvertently shaped the course of human civilization in several key ways:<ul><li>Reduced Eating and Chewing Time</li><li>Nutritional Efficiency</li><li>Creation of Free Time for Innovation</li><li>﻿Socialization and Culture</li></ul>In essence, the advancements in cooking did not just change how we eat; they played a pivotal role in our evolution, allowing us to "eat our way" into forming more complex and sophisticated societies.

How Cooking Paved the Way for Societal Advancement

 A great channel where we can learn a lot more about the world the we live !

PBS Member Stations rely on viewers like you. To support your local station, go to: http://to.pbs.org/DonateOKAY
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Your brain is hungry. Here's how to feed it.

SUBSCRIBE, it's FREE! http://bit.ly/iotbs_sub 

Ever wonder why we cook our food? We do it because it tastes good, of course, and because our customs and traditions are built around it. But we also cook our food for some basic biological reasons, because of evolution. Some scientists think that figuring out how to cook actually MADE us human! 

If conversation gets a little dry around your holiday table, now you'll have some awesome science to share with everyone!

Richard Wrangham - "Catching Fire: How Cooking Made Us Human" http://amzn.to/1cg5flN 

"The Raw and the Stolen" (PDF) - Richard Wrangham et al. http://bit.ly/JTLYfe 
(that one has some of the counterarguments, too)
Greg Laden's summary: http://bit.ly/1dx46oc 

Cooked Foods Needed for Early Human Brain: http://bit.ly/1l8bqJE 

Man Entered the Kitchen 1.9 Million Years Ago: http://bit.ly/1c1vcB5 

What made us human: http://bit.ly/19lp4cU and http://www.epjournal.net/wp-content/uploads/EP08340342.pdf 

The story might not be quite so simple, though: http://blogs.plos.org/neuroanthropology/2010/10/28/food-for-thought-cooking-in-human-evolution/ 

Joe Hanson - Host
Joe Nicolosi - Director
Amanda Fox - Producer, Spotzen IncKatie Graham - Director of Photography
John Knudsen - Gaffer
Isaac Hammons - Audio Recordist
Stephen Bohls, Editor, Kino-Eye POST
Christopher Chiles, Motion Graphics
Kate Eads - Production Manager
Intro music - Victor Herbert Orchestra, "Chinese Dance of the Mirillitons from the Nutcracker 1913"
Body music - Podington Bear's "AlgoRhythmNatural"
Special thanks to Thinkery Austin

Produced for PBS Digital Studios 
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Health

Be Smart is created and hosted by Joe Hanson, Ph.D. 

We give you deep answers to simple questions about science and the rest of the universe.

Have ideas or questions? Find me on Twitter: @okaytobesmart or @DrJoeHanson



Be Smart

Why Do We Cook?

The criticism proper betrays such poverty of ideas and such atrophy of sensibility that men who ought to preserve their critical ability for the improvement of their own creative work are tempted into criticism.

Introduction

<ul><li>When there is so much to be known,</li><li>When there are so many fields of knowledge in which the same words are used with different meanings, </li><li>When every one knows a little about a great many things.</li></ul>It becomes increasingly difficult for anyone to know whether he knows what he is talking about or not.

When...

The writer of present essay (1920/1950) once committed himself to the statement that, "The poetic critic is criticizing poetry in order to create poetry."

The two latter have gusto, but gusto is no equivalent for taste; it depends too much upon the appetite and the digestion of the feeder.

Gusto

A man of ideas needs ideas, or pseudo-ideas, to fight against.

Ideas and Pseudo-Ideas

In English writing we seldom speak of tradition, though we occasionally apply its name in deploring its absence. We can not refer to "the tradition" or to "a tradition". At most, wee employ the adjective in saying that the poetry of so-and-so is "traditional" or even "too traditional". Seldom, perhaps, does the word appear except in a phrase of censure. If otherwise, it is vaguely approbative, with the implication, as to the work approved, of some pleasing archaelogical reconstruction.

Tradition

Honest criticism and sensitive appreciation is directed not upon the poet but upon the poetry.

The Poetry, Not the Poet

From the point of view of literature, the drama is only among several poetic forms. The epic, the ballad, the chanson de geste, the forms of Provence and of Tuscany, all found their perfection by serving particular societies.

Poetic Drama

The Elizabethan Age in England was able to absorb a great quantity of new thoughts and new images, almost dispensing with tradition, because it had this great form of its own which imposed itself on everything that came to it.Consequently, the blank verse of their pays accomplished a subtlety and consciousness.

The Elizabethan Age

Qua work of art, the work of art can not be interpreted. There is nothing to interpret. We can only criticize it according to standards, in comparison to other works of art; and for "interpretation" the chief task is the presentation of relevant historical facts which the reader is not assumed to know.

The Work of Art

The only way of expressing emotion in the form of art is by finding an "objective correlative". In other words, a set of objects, a situation, a chain of events which shall be the formula of that particular emotion. Such that when external facts, which must terminate in sensory experience, are given, the emotion is immediately evoked.

Objective Correlative

English criticism is inclined to argue or persuade rather than to state. Instead of forcing the subject to expose himself, these critics have left in their work an undissolved residuum of their own good taste, which, however impeccable, is something that requires our faith.

Argue and Persuade vs. State

It is important that the artist should be highly educated in his own art; but his education is one that is hindered rather than helped by the ordinary processes of society which constitute education for the ordinary man.

Education

Without doubt, the effort of the philosopher proper, the man who is trying to deal with ideas themselves, and the effort of the poet, who may be trying to realize ideas, can not be carried on at the same time.

Philosopher

" 'I am a poet, ' he said, and one, I hope, of no mean imagination, if one can reckon at all by crowns of honour, which gratitude can set even on unworthy heads. 'Why are you so badly dressed, then?' you ask. For that very reason. The worship of genius never made a man rich." -Petronius, Satyricon (54 AD) The Sacred Wood-Essays on Poetry and Criticism (1920) is T. S. Eliot's first book of criticism. It contains opinions of writers such as Shakespeare and Dante and some of Eliot's most influential essays, including Tradition and the Individual Talent and Philip Massinger.

philosophy

Philosophy

writing

Reading & Writing

books

Books

artsandculture

Society, Arts & Culture

T. S. Eliot

The Sacred Wood

Setting personal goals is a fundamental step in achieving success and fulfillment in life. This guide explores various aspects of goal setting, from understanding its importance to implementing practical strategies. By categorizing goals and utilizing the SMART framework, individuals can create a clear path toward achieving their aspirations.

This section highlights the significance of goal setting in personal and professional life. It emphasizes how clear goals provide direction, help in organizing time and resources efficiently, and increase the likelihood of achieving desired outcomes.

Importance of Goal Setting:

The SMART framework is detailed here, advocating for goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach ensures clarity and feasibility of goals, making them more achievable.Setting Lifetime Goals: This part advises on identifying and setting lifetime goals. It encourages considering different life aspects such as career, education, family, and personal growth, ensuring a holistic approach to goal setting.

Types of Goals & SMART Goals

The final section focuses on creating a detailed action plan to achieve set goals. It stresses the importance of breaking down large goals into smaller, manageable steps and regularly reviewing progress.

Making an Action Plan:

In conclusion, effective goal setting is a dynamic and transformative process. By categorizing goals, applying the SMART criteria, and creating actionable plans, individuals can significantly enhance their ability to achieve desired outcomes. Regularly revisiting and adjusting goals ensures continued personal growth and success.

Conclusion

moneyandinvestments

Money & Investments

strategy

Strategy

leadershipandmanagement

Leadership & Management

Personal Goal Setting

Atheism, at its core, is the absence of belief in imaginary deities or supernatural entities. Yet, it is far from a simple absence; it is a tapestry woven with threads of critical thinking, skepticism, and a profound reverence for evidence-based reasoning. This article and linked book seeks to navigate through the layers of misconceptions, exploring the truths that define atheism and illuminate the lives of atheists.

What Atheism ACTUALLY is?

For too long, atheism has been painted with a broad brush, often misunderstood as a monolithic ideology devoid of depth, spirituality, or moral compass. But the reality is far more intricate. Within the spectrum of atheism lies a myriad of perspectives, values, and ways of engaging with the world—an array of thoughts and beliefs that reflect the kaleidoscope of human experiences.

Misconception & Reality

Atheism isn't a belief system; it's a lack of belief in religious claims & fictional entities.

This short article is not an attempt to convert or persuade but a voyage of discovery—a voyage that invites both the curious and the well-versed to navigate through the landscapes of atheism. Whether you stand firmly in your convictions or find yourself questioning the beliefs you've held dear, these truths serve as guideposts, inviting reflection and fostering understanding.

What this article is all about

Almost all atheists come from religious backgrounds but eventually question and reject those beliefs which are pushed on them (as on everyone on us) from family, friends & society.

I prefer to call the non believer as SEEKER, who just didn't blindly followed the ordinary path, but tried to inquire and find his own. Like Gautama & Mahaveer, who questioned everything about the orthodox rituals.

Not all atheists actively campaign against religion; most of them prefer a live-and-let-live approach. They also believe in Humanity and Morality. They may also find solace & comfort in Meditation, Mindfulness, Philosophy, Art & Literature.

Atheism isn't a monolithic ideology; there are various schools of thought among atheists. Atheists can have moral frameworks based on humanism, empathy, and compassion.

Welcome to a journey through the intricate landscape of atheism—a mosaic of ideas, beliefs, and perspectives often misunderstood or misrepresented. In these pages, we delve into the essence of atheism, seeking to unravel its many facets, truths, and the rich diversity encapsulated within.

religionandspirituality

Religion & Spirituality

Truths about ATHEISM

<ul><li>Accismus (n): a useful term for pretending to be disinterested in something when you actually want it. Pull this word out when you see someone acting like he doesn’t want the last donut.</li><li>Acumen (n): If you can easily make decisions or learn important things, you are displaying acumen. This positive word is a great term to use when paying someone a compliment.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Anachronistic (adj): When something doesn’t fit with its historical context, it’s anachronistic. This is a great word to use when writing history papers or talking about your favorite historical dramas. Pull it out when you point out the soda can in the background of a period movie.</li><li>Anthropomorphize (v): When someone gives human characteristics to something inanimate, that person is anthropomorphizing that thing. From personification in literature to your brother making his stuffed animals talk, this is a useful and unusual word to know.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Apricate (v): A beautiful and uncommon word based on a Latin term, apricate means to bask in the sunshine. Pull this gem out when you’re commenting on your cat’s behavior or writing about your last trip to the beach.</li><li>Bastion (n): A bastion is a place that is well-defended, but it can also be used to describe an institution or person who holds firm to principles. Use it when talking or writing about social institutions, politics, news organizations, and more.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Behoove (v): You can use behoove as a verb that means to be necessary or appropriate for something else. It comes in handy when telling someone why they should do something or when writing a persuasive essay.</li><li>Burgeon (v): When you’re talking about something that is growing noticeably, you might say that it is burgeoning. You can use this term literally or figuratively.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Convivial (adj): Use this great adjective to describe someone or something that is great company. You can use convivial to pay a compliment to a group of people or use it to describe a gathering you enjoyed.</li><li>Conundrum (n): If you run into a problem that doesn’t have a clear solution or an obvious correct answer, you can call it a conundrum. This is a good word to have on hand when you’re writing a research paper.</li></ul>

9-10

<ul><li>Credulity (n): Do you know someone who is gullible or willing to believe things without proof? Use the word credulity to describe this character trait. You’ll also find this useful in essays, especially about critical thinking.</li><li>Crepuscular (adj): You know how some animals are nocturnal and some are diurnal, but what about animals like deer that are active during dawn and dusk? These animals are crepuscular.</li></ul>

11-12

<ul><li>Edify (v): Some things serve to build people up in a moral or intellectual sense. When you write or speak about something like this, use the verb edify.</li><li>Egregious (adj): Use egregious to describe something that is really extraordinary but negative at the same time. It comes in handy for writing or talking about people breaking important laws or rules.</li></ul>

13-14

<ul><li>Effete (adj): Sometime, you meet someone or encounter something that is overly refined - even to the point of uselessness. That thing is effete.</li><li>Eschew (v): If you’re trying to stay away from something on purpose, you are eschewing that thing. This is useful when talking about intentional choices in personal essays.</li></ul>

15-16

<ul><li>Fatuous (adj): Sometimes you need to describe someone or something that is foolish or silly. That’s a great time to use the word fatuous.</li><li>Fractious (adj): If something is difficult to control and generally bad-tempered, you can describe it as fractious. This is useful when talking about cranky children or animals.</li></ul>

17-18

<ul><li>Galvanize (v): Another great essay word, galvanize means to stimulate someone to act. Certain life events or situations can inspire other actions and events, and they are perfect for this word.</li><li>Imperious (adj): If you need to describe a person or thing that is bossy and domineering for no good reason, use the word imperious. It’s ideal for personal essays about siblings.</li></ul>

19-20

<ul><li>Impetus (n): Something that makes something else happen is an impetus. You can use this word in many types of writing - from speeches to persuasive essays.</li><li>Insouciant (adj): Someone who is very calm and doesn’t seem bothered by the concerns of daily life can be described as insouciant. This is a great positive word to use in a variety of situations.</li></ul>

21-22

<ul><li>Interlocutor (n): When you’re describing the participants of a conversation, you’re talking about the interlocutors. It’s a handy word for talking about discussions.</li><li>Lionize (v): This awesome positive L word is a verb you can use to talk about celebrities and important historical figures and the way people view them. Lionize means to treat someone as a hero.</li></ul>

23-24

<ul><li>Visceral (adj): Have you ever felt something so deeply that it affected you on an emotional level? You had a visceral reaction to that thing.</li><li>Zeugma (n): A figure of speech in which one word has a double meaning within a sentence, zeugma is a useful term for language arts papers. An example of this would be, “He stole my heart and my car.”</li></ul>

49-50

<ul><li>Melange (n): Anything that is a mixture of seemingly unrelated things is a melange. You can use this in the abstract to talk about apparently unrelated qualities or ideas.</li><li>Metanoia (n): When you’re talking about a fundamental shift in how someone sees something, you’re talking about metanoia. This is a great unusual word to use in essays.</li></ul>

25-26

The key to using these rare words is understanding their meaning.

50 Rare Words That Are Useful to Know

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