Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.

He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.

The unexamined life is not worth living.

We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.

The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.

In difficult times, carry something beautiful in your heart.

Freedom is what you do with what’s been done to you.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

History doesn't repeat itself, but it rhymes. Learn from the past, shape a better future.

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Books

history

History

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Society, Arts & Culture

philosophy

Philosophy

Understand yourself and those around you.

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Psychology

Lessons of History

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Career

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Mindfulness

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Motivation & Inspiration

10 Inspirational Quotes from History’s Greatest Thinkers

We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.

Begin at once to live, and count each separate day as a separate life.

The greatest wealth is a poverty of desires.

As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.

Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.

He who is brave is free.

It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.

Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body.

If a man knows not to which port he sails, no wind is favorable.

True happiness is… to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.

Seneca is one of the greatest stoic philosophers ever. Here are my ten favorites quotes of his.

problemsolving

Problem Solving

Stoic Philosopher - Seneca's Greatest Quotes

Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.

If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.

Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.

At bottom every man knows well enough that he is a unique being, only once on this earth; and by no extraordinary chance will such a marvelously picturesque piece of diversity in unity as he is, ever be put together a second time.

When you are content to be simply yourself and don’t compare or compete, everyone will respect you.

Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.

To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight; and never stop fighting.

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Religion & Spirituality

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Personal Development

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Mental Health

The 10 best quotes about being true to yourself 

The key to positive nihilism is acknowledging that the universe and everything in it lack inherent purpose or meaning.Though it may seem discouraging, this realization can be empowering and liberating, allowing you to live life on your own terms.

Embracing Meaninglessness

We have the freedom to choose our own path and pursue what we believe to be virtuous, as the universe offers no concrete way to measure meaning.Here are some tips to help you create your own meaningful purpose:<ul><li>Choose a fulfilling lifestyle that makes you happy</li><li>Set meaningful goals that align with your values</li><li>Foster meaningful connections with others</li></ul>Remember, it's up to you to create your own purpose and find what gives your life meaning.

Create Your Own Purpose

In today's busy world, it's important to remember to be present. Our lives are filled with distractions and constant pressure to achieve, but we must remember to slow down and appreciate the present moment. Here are some tips:<ol><li>Put down your phone and enjoy your surroundings</li><li>Take deep breaths to ground yourself</li><li>Practice gratitude for the little things</li><li>Engage in activities that bring you joy</li></ol>By focusing on the present, we can fully experience life and find happiness in the here and now. Let go of the need for an ultimate purpose and embrace the beauty of the present.

Be Present

Live your life truly and honestly by following your own beliefs and values. Don't feel the need to conform to external pressures or societal norms.Here are some tips to help you live authentically:<ul><li>Stay true to yourself: Listen to your inner voice and follow your passions and beliefs.</li><li>Embrace your uniqueness: Don't be afraid to be different and stand out from the crowd.</li><li>Reject societal norms: Don't feel pressured to conform to societal expectations, create your own path.</li><li>Be honest and open: Communicate openly and honestly with yourself and others.</li></ul>

Be Authentic

The Importance of Compassion
In our quest for understanding and purpose, it is crucial to remember that we all share a common human experience. By embracing empathy, kindness, and building connections with others, we can find meaning and support one another in our journeys.

Ways to Cultivate Compassion
<ul>
<li>Put yourself in someone else's shoes</li>
<li>Listen actively and without judgment</li>
<li>Show kindness and understanding to those around you</li>
<li>Form genuine connections and offer support to others in need</li>
</ul>

Find Compassion

Title: Joy In Simple ThingsLife is not about achieving big goals, but finding joy in the small things. The key to true happiness is to appreciate the beauty and wonder of everyday moments.Here's how to find joy in simplicity:<ol><li>Take a deep breath and pause to observe your surroundings.</li><li>Find gratitude in the little things, such as a sunrise or a kind gesture from a stranger.</li><li>Practice mindfulness by focusing on the present moment and being fully present in it.</li><li>Do something fun and lighthearted, like playing a game or listening to music.</li></ol> LIFE IS JUST A SERIES OF MOMENTS, SO BE THERE TO EXPERIENCE THEM

Joy In Simple Things

The struggle itself toward the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy.

You get to consciously decide what has meaning and what doesn’t. You get to decide what to worship.

Positive nihilism is all about embracing the absurdity of life to flourish .

Nothing matters, and that’s a good thing!

People tend to place a higher value on products they partially assemble themselves (such as IKEA furniture.) i definitely experience this effect with legos I’ve built

The IKEA Effect

During economic downturns, sales of small luxury items like lipstick tend to increase as consumers seek affordable indulgences.

The Lipstick Effect

This test gave children to option to eat a single marshmallow or wait a set time and receive extra, testing their ability to withdraw from instant gratification. This psychological experiment showed that children who could delay gratification (wait for a larger reward) tended to have better life outcomes, including higher incomes. (Results are still being disputed)

The Marshmallow Test

This economic principle states that as a person consumes more of a good or service, the additional satisfaction (utility) from each additional unit decreases.

The Law Of Diminishing Marginal Utility

The broken window fallacy is a misconception that a destructive event, such as breaking a window, has positive economic effects because it creates job opportunities for those who fix it. In reality, it only causes a redirection of resources away from productive activities.👉 Destruction does not create wealth. 👉 The resources used to repair the window could have been invested in more beneficial activities, ultimately leading to economic growth and job creation. 👉 Remember, every decision has an opportunity cost. Don't fall for this fallacy and always consider the bigger picture!

The Broken Window Fallacy

Named after economist Ronald Coase, this theorem states that under certain conditions, private parties can reach efficient outcomes without government intervention, through bargaining and negotiation.

The Coase Theorem

These are goods that people consume more of as the price rises, contradicting the law of demand. They are rare and typically involve essential items for which no substitute is available.

Giffen Goods

This concept describes how individuals acting independently and rationally according to their own self-interest can deplete a shared resource, even when it’s against everyone’s long-term interest.

The Tragedy Of Commons

Developed by The Economist magazine, this index compares the price of a Big Mac burger across different countries as a way to gauge purchasing power parity and currency valuation.

The Big Mac Index

A game theory scenario where two rational individuals might not cooperate, even if it is in their best interest to do so, due to mistrust and the risk of being exploited.

Prisoners Dilemma

This curve illustrates the relationship between tax rates and tax revenue. It suggests that at some point, increasing tax rates beyond a certain threshold can lead to a decrease in revenue due to disincentives for economic activity.

The Laffer Curve

Named after economist Thorstein Veblen, this effect describes how the demand for a good increases as its price increases, primarily because it serves as a status symbol.this goes against the common understanding of pricing according to supply and demand.

The Veblen Effect

this fallacy describes the belief that a person who has experienced success in the past is more likely to have continued success in the future, despite the outcomes being independent.

The Hot Hand Fallacy

In economic decision-making, this cognitive bias refers to people overestimating their knowledge or abilities in a particular area, often leading to poor decisions.

The Dunning-Kruger Effect

Named after a study conducted at the Hawthorne Works factory, this effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals improve or modify their behavior when they know they are being observed, which can skew experimental results.

Hawthorne Effect

As an avid freakonmics listener, I decided to compile a list of my own personal favorite economic facts and.

Discover the world of business and economics.

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Economics

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Money & Investments

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Strategy

15 basic economic principles that you should know 

Fight Club” dives deep into the struggle for self-identity in a world obsessed with consumerism. The characters break away from societal norms to find out who they really are. The fights symbolize a raw confrontation with personal truths, stripping away all the superficial layers. The protagonist, feeling lost in a corporate job and a cookie-cutter life, finds a new sense of purpose and identity through the underground world of fight clubs.

Identity

This journey highlights the human desire to find meaning beyond societal labels and expectations. The protagonist’s transformation from a passive, unfulfilled individual to someone who actively seeks out his true self underscores the importance of self-discovery. It emphasizes that true identity is found not in societal roles but in the core of our being.

Seeking Meaning

The story is a powerful critique of modern consumer culture. It shows how material possessions can come to dominate and define our lives. The protagonist’s journey is a rebellion against the idea that our worth is tied to what we own. He starts by systematically destroying his own material possessions, realizing that they were shackling him to a shallow existence.

Reject Materialism

This act of rejection emphasizes the emptiness that often accompanies material wealth and encourages us to seek fulfillment beyond physical objects. The protagonist’s liberation from materialism allows him to discover a more meaningful existence, one that is not defined by consumer goods but by personal values and experiences.

Finding Meaning Beyond Objects

Fight Club” suggests that true freedom and enlightenment can arise from chaos and destruction. The characters in the story deliberately dismantle their structured lives, finding liberation in the unpredictability and disorder that follows. This chaos is not senseless; it is a means to strip away the artificial constructs of society.

Embrace Chaos

Through chaos, the characters discover a raw, unfiltered version of themselves that societal norms had suppressed. This return to a more primal state of being highlights the idea that true authenticity often lies beneath the layers of societal conditioning. It encourages us to embrace uncertainty as a path to self-discovery.

The narrative delves into the duality within us all. The protagonist’s alter ego, Tyler Durden, represents the suppressed, primal side that seeks liberation from societal constraints. Tyler is everything the protagonist is not: bold, rebellious, and free from societal expectations.

The Primitive Self

This duality highlights the internal conflict between societal expectations and our true desires, showing how the struggle between these two sides can shape our actions and identities. It raises questions about which side truly represents our authentic self and how we can reconcile these opposing aspects of our nature.

Dealing With Internal Conflict

Pain and suffering are central themes in “Fight Club,” symbolizing a path to awakening and self-realization. The fights are not just physical; they are metaphors for confronting and overcoming internal struggles. The characters use physical pain as a means to feel alive and to break free from the numbness of their everyday lives.

Liberation Through Pain

This liberation through pain highlights the idea that growth and self-discovery often come from facing and enduring hardships. It’s through these intense, raw experiences that the characters are able to strip away the facade and get to the core of their being, finding true liberation and strength.

Embrace Hardship

Fight Club” also provides a sharp critique of modern masculinity. It portrays men who feel emasculated by their mundane, controlled lives and who seek to reclaim their sense of power and purpose through the primal act of fighting. The club becomes a space where they can express their suppressed aggression.

Modern Masculinity

This critique forces us to examine how societal expectations of masculinity can confine and limit personal expression and fulfillment. It challenges the traditional notions of what it means to be a man, suggesting that true masculinity is not about conforming to societal standards but about embracing one’s authentic self.

Societal Expectations

Fight Club” is a profound exploration of identity, materialism, chaos, duality, the transformative power of pain, and modern masculinity. It challenges us to rethink societal norms and find our true selves amidst the chaos. The story serves as a powerful reminder that in a world filled with superficial values, the journey to self-discovery often requires breaking down old structures, embracing discomfort, and facing our deepest fears.

Rethinking Norms

The narrative encourages us to seek authenticity in a world that often values the superficial. By embracing chaos, rejecting materialism, and confronting our inner dualities, we can find a more meaningful and fulfilling existence. “Fight Club” ultimately inspires us to strip away societal facades and discover our true selves.

Takeaway

The things you own end up owning you. It's only after you lose everything that you're free to do anything.

The first rule of fight club is you don’t talk about fight club.

Fight club is an amazing novel that highlights several aspects of contemporary society. I hope you enjoy this analysis.

The Philosophy of Fight Club 

Start by embracing a monk mindset to find calm and clarity. Focus on cultivating positive thoughts, practicing mindfulness, and expressing gratitude. Begin each day with a meditation session to set a peaceful tone.

Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose

Take steps to uncover and align with your true self. This involves shedding external expectations and societal pressures to reveal your authentic identity. Reflect on your core values and passions to better understand who you truly are.

Discover Your True Identity

Be deliberate in your actions and choices. Intentional living brings greater fulfillment and purpose. Set clear, meaningful goals and develop a plan to achieve them.

Live with Intention

Make a conscious effort to stay present and fully engaged in the moment. Mindfulness enhances focus, reduces stress, and improves relationships. Incorporate mindful breathing exercises into your daily routine to stay grounded.

Stay Present

Work on letting go of negative influences and habits. Releasing negativity fosters a positive and productive mindset. Identify and distance yourself from toxic people and environments.

Overcoming Negativ

Develop a grateful and optimistic outlook. Gratitude can shift your perspective and attract more positivity into your life. Keep a gratitude journal and write down three things you’re thankful for each day.

Be Grateful

Seek joy and purpose in helping others. Acts of service create a sense of connection and fulfillment. Volunteer for a cause you care about or perform small acts of kindness daily.

Help People

Build habits that support your goals and well-being. Consistent routines lead to long-term success and stability. Establish a morning and evening routine that prioritizes your mental and physical health. When trying to develop a new habit it’s important to schedule a time to pursue it rather then trying to fit it into stray time.

Develop A Disciplined Routine.

Face your fears and manage anxiety through practical techniques. Understanding and confronting fear empowers you to overcome it. Practice breathing exercises and positive affirmations to calm anxiety.

Manage Fear And Anxiety

Strive to balance work, relationships, and personal growth. Achieving balance leads to a more harmonious and satisfying life. Allocate time for self-care, family, and personal development in your schedule.

Balance

Commit to continuously practicing the principles outlined in the book to achieve lasting change and growth. Adopting a monk-like mindset can transform your life by promoting peace, purpose, and fulfillment. It won’t be easy to transform your thought patterns but by continuously trying to improve you’ll be able to make any change that you wish.

Don’t Give Up

Using the monk mindset can allow anyone to improve their life, you don’t have to meditate for hours a day to utilize the techniques in this book. In addition to this overview, I highly recommend reading the whole book.

Jay Shetty, social media superstar and host of the #1 podcast On Purpose, distills the timeless wisdom he learned as a monk into practical steps anyone can take every day to live a less anxious, more meaningful life. When you think like a monk, you’ll understand: -How to overcome negativity -How to stop overthinking -Why comparison kills love -How to use your fear -Why you can’t find happiness by looking for it -How to learn from everyone you meet -Why you are not your thoughts -How to find your purpose -Why kindness is crucial to success -And much more... Shetty grew up in a family where you could become one of three things—a doctor, a lawyer, or a failure. His family was convinced he had chosen option three: instead of attending his college graduation ceremony, he headed to India to become a monk, to meditate every day for four to eight hours, and devote his life to helping others. After three years, one of his teachers told him that he would have more impact on the world if he left the monk’s path to share his experience and wisdom with others. Heavily in debt, and with no recognizable skills on his résumé, he moved back home in north London with his parents. Shetty reconnected with old school friends—many working for some of the world’s largest corporations—who were experiencing tremendous stress, pressure, and unhappiness, and they invited Shetty to coach them on well-being, purpose, and mindfulness. Since then, Shetty has become one of the world’s most popular influencers. In 2017, he was named in the Forbes magazine 30-under-30 for being a game-changer in the world of media. In 2018, he had the #1 video on Facebook with over 360 million views. His social media following totals over 38 million, he has produced over 400 viral videos which have amassed more than 8 billion views, and his podcast, On Purpose, is consistently ranked the world’s #1 Health and Wellness podcast. In this inspiring, empowering book, Shetty draws on his time as a monk to show us how we can clear the roadblocks to our potential and power. Combining ancient wisdom and his own rich experiences in the ashram, Think Like a Monk reveals how to overcome negative thoughts and habits, and access the calm and purpose that lie within all of us. He transforms abstract lessons into advice and exercises we can all apply to reduce stress, improve relationships, and give the gifts we find in ourselves to the world. Shetty proves that everyone can—and should—think like a monk.

meditation

Meditation

Jay Shetty is a storyteller, podcaster, and former monk. Shetty’s vision is to Make Wisdom Go Viral. He is on a mission to share the timeless wisdom of the world in an accessible, relevant, and practical way. Shetty has created over 400 viral videos with over 5 billion views, and hosts the #1 Health and Wellness podcast in the world, On Purpose. Learn more at JayShetty.me.

Jay Shetty

Think Like a Monk

Most of what we know about Socrates comes from his student Plato, who wrote dialogues featuring Socrates as a central character. (what if Socrates wasn’t even real?!?!?)

Socrates never wrote anything down.

The ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes practiced and preached Cynicism, advocating for a simple life free from societal norms and material possessions.

Diogenes of Sinope lived in a barrel.

“Plato” was a nickname referring to his broad shoulders or robust physique. (I’m not sure how Plato relates to that, all I can think of is the kids putty)

Plato’s real name was Aristocles.

It comes from the Greek words “philo” (love) and “sophia” (wisdom).

The term “philosophy” means “love of wisdom.”

Despite his limited travel, his work has had a profound impact on Western philosophy.

Immanuel Kant never traveled more than 10 miles from his hometow

His statement “Cogito, ergo sum” (“I think, therefore I am”) is one of the most famous in philosophy.

René Descartes is considered the father of modern philosophy.

This term means a state of serene calmness and untroubled mind, aiming to be indifferent to external events.

The Stoics believed in practicing “ataraxia.”

Friedrich Nietzsche’s large mustache was famously referred to as “the Walrus.”

Nietzsche’s mustache had its own nickname.

He inherited a fortune from his wealthy family but gave it all away to live a simple, ascetic life focused on philosophy.

Ludwig Wittgenstein gave away his inheritance

Contrary to the common use of “epicurean” to describe indulgence, Epicurus actually taught that true pleasure is found in modest living, intellectual pursuits, and friendship.

Epicurus believed in the pursuit of simple pleasures.

Philosophy often seems daunting so I created list to jumpstart my interest in the topic again.

10 fun facts about philosophy 

Stoicism is a philosophy that began in ancient Greece, around the 3rd century BCE, with a guy named Zeno of Citium. He started teaching his ideas in Athens, Zeno and his disciples used to meet and at a place called the Stoa Poikile, which is where the name “Stoicism” comes from.

Origins

Stoicism is all about finding happiness by living a virtuous life. It focuses on wisdom, self-control, and strength to handle life’s ups and downs. The idea is that by being rational and in tune with nature, we can lead a fulfilling life.

10 Inspirational Quotes from History’s Greatest Thinkers

Stoic Philosopher - Seneca's Greatest Quotes

The 10 best quotes about being true to yourself

Nothing matters, and that’s a good thing!

15 basic economic principles that you should know

Kelan O’Brien