Dostoevsky

Socrates

Aristotle

Nietzsche

Freud

Marx

Picasso

Gandhi

Schopenhauer

Bertrand Russell

Steve Jobs

Einstein

Stephen Hawking

Kafka

Buddha

Shankara

Rumi

Ramana Maharshi

Thich Nhat Hanh

Each one must therefore give life a meaning according to how you one perceive.

:•

Understand yourself and those around you.

psychology

Psychology

philosophy

Philosophy

mindfulness

Mindfulness

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

politics

Politics

What is life?

Shloka:कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।(Chapter 2, Verse 47)Meaning: You have the right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions.Lesson: Focus on your duties without attachment to the outcomes. This promotes a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Karma Yoga

Shloka:नैनं छिद्रन्ति शस्त्राणि नैनं दहति पावकः।(Chapter 2, Verse 23)Meaning: The soul cannot be cut by weapons, burned by fire, wetted by water, or dried by the wind.Lesson: The soul is eternal and indestructible; understanding this helps alleviate fear of death.

The Eternal Soul

Shloka:यदा यदा हि धर्मस्य ग्लानिर्भवति भारत।(Chapter 4, Verse 7)Meaning: Whenever there is a decline in righteousness and an increase in unrighteousness, I manifest myself.Lesson: Divine intervention occurs when moral order is threatened; it reassures believers of divine support.

Righteousness

Shloka:क्रोधाद्भवति संमोहः संमोहात्स्मृतिविभ्रमः।(Chapter 2, Verse 63)Meaning: From anger comes delusion; from delusion arises confusion of memory; from confusion of memory arises loss of intelligence.Lesson: Anger leads to a loss of rationality; controlling emotions is crucial for clarity and wisdom.

Anger and Delusion

Shloka:नासतो विद्यते भावो नाभावो विद्यते सतः।(Chapter 2, Verse 16)Meaning: There is no existence for the unreal; the real never ceases to exist.Lesson: Understanding the distinction between the eternal (real) and the temporary (unreal) is key to spiritual wisdom.

The Nature of Reality

Shloka:यः सर्वत्र समं दृष्ट्वा आत्मानं स पण्डितः।(Chapter 5, Verse 18)Meaning: The wise see all beings as equal; they see themselves in all beings.Lesson: Cultivating equanimity fosters compassion and understanding among all living beings.

Equanimity

Shloka:श्रद्धावान्ल्लभते ज्ञानं तत्परः संयतेन्द्रियः।(Chapter 4, Verse 39)Meaning: A faithful person who controls their senses obtains knowledge and soon attains supreme peace.Lesson: Faith and self-control are essential for acquiring true knowledge and achieving inner peace.

The Path to Knowledge

Shloka:सर्वधर्मान्परित्यज्य मां एकं सरणं व्रज।(Chapter 18, Verse 66)Meaning: Abandon all varieties of religion and just surrender unto Me.Lesson: Complete surrender to God leads to liberation from sin and suffering.

The Power of Surrender

Shloka:यद्यदाचरति श्रेष्ठस्तत्तदेवेतरो जनः।(Chapter 3, Verse 21)Meaning: Whatever action a leader performs, others follow suit.Lesson: Leaders must act responsibly as their actions set examples for others.

The Role of a Leader

Shloka:मच्चित्तः सर्वदुर्गाणि मत्प्रसादात्तरिष्यसि।(Chapter 18, Verse 58)Meaning: With your mind focused on Me, you will overcome all obstacles by My grace.Lesson: Faith in divine guidance helps in overcoming life's challenges.

Overcoming Obstacles

Shloka:विषयाः विनिवर्तन्ते निराहारस्य देहिनः।(Chapter 2, Verse 59)Meaning: The senses withdraw from their objects for one who abstains from food but not for one who merely refrains from eating.Lesson: True control over desires comes from inner strength rather than mere external restraint.

The Nature of Desire

Shloka:ज्ञानेन तु तदज्ञानं येषां नाशितमात्मनः।(Chapter 5, Verse 16)Meaning: Those who have knowledge dispel ignorance; their consciousness is illuminated by wisdom.Lesson: Knowledge is transformative; it dispels ignorance and leads to liberation.

True Knowledge

Shloka:अव्यक्तादीनि भूतानि व्यक्तमध्यानि भारत।(Chapter 2, Verse 28)Meaning: All beings are unmanifest before birth and manifest at birth; they become unmanifest again at death.Lesson: Life is cyclical; understanding this helps in accepting life's transient nature.

The Essence of Life

Shloka:उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।(Chapter 6, Verse 5)Meaning: One must elevate oneself by one's own mind; one should not degrade oneself.Lesson: Self-improvement is essential; we are responsible for our own spiritual progress.

The Importance of Action

Shloka:सर्वस्य चाहं हृदि सन्निविष्टो मद्दृष्टे: सर्वभूतानि।(Chapter 15, Verse 15)Meaning: I am seated in everyone's heart; from Me comes remembrance, knowledge, and forgetfulness.Lesson: God resides within all beings; recognizing this fosters unity and compassion among people.

The Nature of God

Shloka:आगमापायिनोऽनित्यास्तांस्तितिक्षस्व भारत।(Chapter 2, Verse 14)Meaning:Endure the dualities of happiness and distress as they come and go like winter and summer seasons.Lesson:Patience in facing life's ups and downs is essential for spiritual growth.

Embracing Change

Shloka:बुद्धियुक्तो जहातीह उभे सुकृतदुष्कृते।(Chapter 5, Verse 10)Meaning:One who performs their duty without attachment is not affected by sinful action.Lesson:Acting without attachment purifies one's actions.

Spiritual Awakening

Shloka:उद्धरेदात्मनात्मानं नात्मानमवसादयेत्।(Chapter 6, Verse 5)Meaning:One must elevate oneself by one's own mind.Lesson:The mind can be both friend and enemy; mastering it is crucial for success.

The Mind's Power

Shloka:यस्य नाहंकृतो भावो बुद्धिर्यस्य न लिप्यते।(Chapter 14, Verse 22)Meaning:One who is free from egoism remains unattached even while performing actions.Lesson:Ego detachment leads to peace and harmony in life.

Finding Peace

Shloka:मन मनाभव मद्भक्तो मद्याजी मां नमस्कुरु।(Chapter 18, Verse 65)Meaning: Always think of Me, become My devotee, worship Me, and offer your homage unto Me.Lesson: This emphasizes the importance of devotion and surrender to God for spiritual growth.

Devotion

The Bhagavad Gita, a revered scripture in Hindu philosophy, contains numerous shlokas (verses) that impart profound wisdom on life, duty, and spirituality. Here are 20 of the greatest shlokas from the Gita, along with their meanings and lessons:

religionandspirituality

Religion & Spirituality

books

Books

A. C. Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada is an accomplished writer whose work has resonated with readers around the world. A. C. Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada has published several books that explore a range of topics, from fiction to nonfiction, and has received critical acclaim for the ability to weave compelling narratives. A. C. Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada's writing style is known for its depth and authenticity, and has earned quite a loyal following of readers.

A. C. Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada

Bhagavad-Gita As It Is

Historical Challenges: Traditionally, the complexity of government systems and strict procurement processes made software innovation difficult and unattractive for startups.Opportunities with AI: Artificial intelligence offers the ability to automate repetitive administrative tasks, saving taxpayer money and improving services. Areas like form processing, application reviews, and data summarization are particularly well-suited for AI solutions.

Transforming Government Software

Current Innovations: Companies like Flock Safety are pioneering the use of license plate recognition to help solve crimes more efficiently. Meanwhile, Abel Police’s paperwork automation allows officers more time for active duty.Future Tech Focus: YC is particularly interested in startups developing advanced computer vision for monitoring suspicious activity, emergency response tech, and community safety platforms, emphasizing privacy and ethical considerations.

Public Safety Technology

Economic and Social Impact: Bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. could reduce dependence on foreign production, create jobs, and address economic inequalities.Automation Advantage: The rise of machine learning-based robotics allows for efficient, high-quality production without reliance on low-cost labor, making U.S. manufacturing more globally competitive and resilient.

Revitalizing U.S. Manufacturing

Evolving Regulation: Stablecoin technology now benefits from a more promising regulatory outlook, making it easier for financial institutions to adopt.Market Growth: With stablecoins now facilitating over 20% of Mastercard’s transaction volume, startups that enable stablecoin payments, transfers, or business integrations stand to gain significant market traction.

Stablecoins and Financial Stability

Overcoming Fintech Hurdles: Recent years have been difficult for fintech, but new AI-driven infrastructures and tools like Stripe’s financial APIs are changing the game.Key Opportunity Areas: Startups can leverage this moment to innovate in areas like digital banking, AI-based insurance models, wealth management, and cross-border payment solutions, free from traditional financial systems’ legacy burdens.

Fintech 2.0: Reinventing Financial Services

Growing Demand: As AI capabilities expand, demand for customized chips increases, especially for sectors requiring specialized, high-efficiency computation.AI Optimization: Large language models (LLMs) are now capable of optimizing the complex design processes of ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) and FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), making chip manufacturing faster and more cost-effective.

LLMs for Chip Design

Affordable Launches: The cost of launching satellites has fallen tenfold since SpaceX’s first launch, enabling even small startups to enter the space industry.Business Possibilities: With cheaper, routine access to space, companies can explore markets related to satellite data, telecommunications, Earth observation, and even asteroid mining—areas once reserved for large, government-funded entities.

Lowering Barriers to Space Innovation

Static Engineering Tools: Traditional engineering software relies heavily on complex, manual processes that are costly and time-intensive.AI-Enhanced Design: AI-powered engineering tools can reduce the expertise barrier, allowing more rapid and precise development in fields like aerospace, structural engineering, and automotive design, by automating simulations and calculations.

AI-Aided Engineering Tools for Physical World Applications

Human-Centric Employment: As automation reshapes the workforce, YC seeks startups that focus on creating sustainable, human-driven roles that can’t be easily replaced by AI.Future of Work: Ideas could include platforms enabling localized business, personalized services, or new models for self-employment—empowering individuals to generate income in a rapidly changing job market.

One Million Jobs 2.0

Critical Issue: Climate change solutions need more advanced, precise tools, particularly in monitoring and reducing carbon emissions.AI Applications: There’s potential for AI to aid in real-time climate data processing, prediction models, and in guiding sustainable practices in agriculture, energy, and waste management.

AI Tools for Climate and Sustainability

Expanding Access: There’s a massive gap in accessible, affordable healthcare that startups can address using telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and patient management systems.Precision and Efficiency: Technology can optimize healthcare delivery, offering remote solutions, predictive care, and personalized medicine that reduce costs and improve patient outcomes.

Health Tech and Digital Healthcare

We’re entering an era where AI and advanced technology are revolutionizing construction and infrastructure. This golden age is brimming with opportunities to innovate for public benefit. Here’s a glimpse of the high-impact areas where builders can contribute:

technologyandthefuture

Technology & The Future

startup

Startups

computerscience

Computer Science

artificialintelligence

Artificial Intelligence

softwareengineering

Software Engineering

Golden age of building (Ycombinator)

Always make those above you feel superior. Avoid showing off your talents too much.

Never Outshine the Master

Friends may betray; enemies are often more dependable.

Never Put Too Much Trust in Friends; Learn How to Use Enemies

Keep people off-balance by hiding your plans.

Conceal Your Intentions

Powerful people impress by speaking little.

Always Say Less Than Necessary

So Much Depends on Reputation—Guard It with Your Life

Stand out to avoid being overlooked.

Court Attention at All Costs

Leverage others' knowledge and skills.

Get Others to Do the Work for You, but Always Take the Credit

Play the waiting game to keep control.

Make Other People Come to You—Use Bait if Necessary

Actions are more persuasive than words.

Win Through Your Actions, Never Through Argument

Emotions and mindsets are contagious.

Infection: Avoid the Unhappy and Unlucky People

Make others rely on you for their own success.

Learn to Keep People Dependent on You

A small gesture of kindness can break down defenses.

Use Selective Honesty and Generosity to Disarm Your Victim

People are more likely to help if it benefits them.

When Asking for Help, Appeal to Self-Interest, Never to Mercy

Gather information to stay in control.

Pose as a Friend, Work as a Spy

A threat that is not fully eliminated will return stronger.

Crush Your Enemy Totally

Limited presence increases your value.

Use Absence to Increase Respect and Honor

Being unpredictable keeps others wary.

Keep Others in Suspended Terror: Cultivate Unpredictability

Stay involved with people, Isolation is Dangerous

Do Not Build Fortresses to Protect Yourself

People react differently; be cautious.

Know Who You’re Dealing With—Do Not Offend the Wrong Person

Keep people off-balance by not being loyal to anyone.

Do Not Commit to Anyone

summary of the 48 Laws of Power, as written by Robert Greene in his book The 48 Laws of Power. Each law is concise and presents a concept on influence and control.

Amoral, cunning, ruthless, and instructive, this multi-million-copy New York Times bestseller is the definitive manual for anyone interested in gaining, observing, or defending against ultimate control – from the author of The Laws of Human Nature. In the book that People magazine proclaimed “beguiling” and “fascinating,” Robert Greene and Joost Elffers have distilled three thousand years of the history of power into 48 essential laws by drawing from the philosophies of Machiavelli, Sun Tzu, and Carl Von Clausewitz and also from the lives of figures ranging from Henry Kissinger to P.T. Barnum.   Some laws teach the need for prudence (“Law 1: Never Outshine the Master”), others teach the value of confidence (“Law 28: Enter Action with Boldness”), and many recommend absolute self-preservation (“Law 15: Crush Your Enemy Totally”). Every law, though, has one thing in common: an interest in total domination. In a bold and arresting two-color package, The 48 Laws of Power is ideal whether your aim is conquest, self-defense, or simply to understand the rules of the game.

entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship

leadershipandmanagement

Leadership & Management

Robert Greene is an American author of books on strategy, power, and seduction. He has written six international bestsellers, including The 48 Laws of Power, The Art of Seduction, The 33 Strategies of War, The 50th Law, Mastery, and The Laws of Human Nature.

Robert Greene

The 48 Laws of Power

Retention is said to impact skin health by promoting a balanced hormonal state, which may reduce acne and promote a more vibrant complexion. People claim that avoiding the energy loss from regular release can allow the body to focus on other processes, including skin healing. Proponents recommend avoiding processed foods and following a skincare routine to maximize results.

Skin Health

Many find that retention improves mental clarity and focus by freeing up energy typically used in sexual activity. This clarity is thought to lead to better memory, quicker thinking, and heightened problem-solving skills. To sustain these benefits, it’s essential to avoid distractions like excessive screen time and instead engage in mentally stimulating activities.

Mental Clarity

Retention may increase self-confidence, which is often linked to attraction. Advocates argue that it radiates a natural energy that draws others in. In social interactions, practicing eye contact, active listening, and being present can enhance these effects and make social engagements feel more natural.

Female Attraction

Retention can foster a sense of calm self-assurance, which may lead to increased respect from peers. Demonstrating integrity and humility, while being kind and attentive to others, strengthens this effect. Over time, it can create a presence that others naturally respect and admire.

Social Respect

Many people find that they have more stamina and faster recovery times while retaining. Focusing on regular, balanced workouts, including strength and cardio, can enhance physical well-being. Complementing these efforts with balanced nutrition helps ensure that the body remains in optimal condition.

Physical Fitness

Retention supporters claim that the practice boosts confidence and clarity, making it easier to manifest goals. Visualization techniques, along with a well-planned roadmap, can help make intentions feel more achievable. This focus enables people to channel their energy into tangible outcomes.

Manifestation

Many report vivid dreams and better sleep patterns. Mindfulness practices like deep breathing or meditation before bed can further deepen sleep. Avoiding caffeine late in the day and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule also supports sleep quality.

Improved Sleep

Retention encourages a heightened awareness of one’s energy. People claim that it allows them to perceive life in a more dynamic, energetic state, connecting with people and nature on a deeper level. Practicing grounding exercises like yoga or meditation can help one tap into and stabilize this energetic awareness.

Energy Awareness

Retention may offer mental clarity, which is sometimes associated with improved intellectual performance. Regular reading, brain games, and mental challenges help further develop these cognitive benefits, keeping the mind agile.

IQ Boost

Retention may enhance creativity, as the mental energy normally directed elsewhere can be channeled into creative pursuits. Journaling, engaging in artistic hobbies, and spending time in nature can further inspire creativity and fresh ideas.

Creativity

One of the biggest challenges is resisting hyper-sexualized thoughts, which can lead to anxiety if left unchecked. Using techniques like cold showers, physical exercise, or deep breathing can help manage these impulses, rechanneling them productively.

Hyper-Sexualization Risks

Increased energy can sometimes inflate the ego. Practicing humility and self-reflection is essential. Mindfulness and gratitude practices, such as keeping a journal, help temper the ego, fostering a sense of inner balance and grounded confidence.

Ego Control

The energy conserved in retention is thought to be channeled effectively through practices like weightlifting, yoga, and running. Engaging in physical and creative activities promotes positive use of energy and reinforces discipline.

Transmutation Practices

Breathing exercises, like Wim Hof’s method, are highly recommended for staying grounded. These exercises can create a sense of calm and help manage energy. Practicing these consistently improves mental focus and emotional stability.

Breathing Exercises

Connecting with nature is seen as essential for balancing heightened energy. Activities like hiking, sun-gazing, or just walking outdoors help ground energy and provide clarity. This grounding effect allows for a natural release of stress.

Nature Connection

A balanced diet supports retention by providing essential nutrients for body and mind. Incorporating a variety of whole foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding overly processed items helps sustain energy.

Healthy Diet

Daily gratitude practices reinforce positive energy, while affirmations help reprogram the mind with constructive beliefs. These practices encourage mental resilience and a positive outlook.

Gratitude and Affirmations

Various resources, like Joe Dispenza’s books or Wim Hof’s breathing exercises, are recommended for guidance. These materials offer insights into meditation, energy control, and self-improvement. Following these resources can offer structure to the practice.

Inspirational Resources

This post is going to be an overview of my experiences, what I've learned, great resources for others on this journey, and how we can better utilize this energy to our advantage.

What is life?

Bhagavad-Gita As It Is

Golden age of building (Ycombinator)

The 48 Laws of Power

Semen retention (no fap)

Nikhil