"The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." - Stephen Covey
I have taken the advice of many and switched from a daily blog to a blog that I update every few days. I guess it avoids overload and gives people time to absorb and comment. The last couple of days have been very efficient in terms of work and what I have been getting done. However, when I consider what my short-term focus and goals are, it becaomes clear that these days have not been effective. The distinction between effectiveness and efficiency is an old favorite from the great Stephen Covey. It's the proverbial climbing the ladder fast but then realising that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall.
So, I have been getting lots done, but these things are not necessarily the most important things to do in the context of my goals and objectives. Part of the reason for this was that I abandoned my contextual planning and was just churning through to-do lists (climbing the ladder fast). It strikes me that the reason that people do not achieve their goals is because they do not focus sufficient attention and energy on them. This is because they are too busy doing other things and accomplishing other tasks not related to their goals. Today has been radically different, as I have reverted back to my integrated worklist, which classifies my tasks and forces me to dump irrelevant tasks in favour of key ones. I am now keeping the main thing the main thing.
Thursday 31 May 2007
Monday 28 May 2007
Belief
"I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong. "
Bertrand Russell British author, mathematician, & philosopher (1872 - 1970)
Spent a significant portion of yesterday at a place called Big Space, where kids have virtually unlimited playing opportunities and parents can join in or have a drink and read etc. Great fun!
The subject of belief is an intriguing one, and yet it is one that has much charge and consequence for the world. Belief, by definition, is not the same as knowledge. For, with knowledge, there is fact to back it up, a practical, tangible body of evidence that leaves little room for doubt (though there will be those who doubt practical reality itself). Whereas belief often relies on faith, on acceptance of a doctrine or premise, which often cannot be proven. And indeed, there are some beliefs which are beyond the possibility of proof. So, inherently, the question of whether a belief is true or false is pointless. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. What is the effect of the belief? What does it lead to? Surely, this is a more pertinent focus of attention than whether it is true or false.
So that brings us to Bertrand Russell's amusing quote. Given that my beliefs, regardless of how useful they are in guiding my life and helping me be a good person, are not definitely true, does it make sense for me to die for my beliefs? Or does that dogmatic martyrdom stem from a lack of value prioritization? Have I conducted the internal exercise of asking myself what my most important values are? Would life feature lower down the list than my beliefs? Honestly? What if I died for a belief that was subsequently proven to be false? How annoying that would be! I could die to save life (Life is my highest value) but not for much else.
Here are some more quotes on the subject of belief.
"Some people are so ready to die for their beliefs that they forget to live by them" - Bobo West
"The fact that a believer is happier than a skeptic is no more to the point than the fact that a drunken man is happier than a sober one. "
George Bernard Shaw Irish dramatist & socialist (1856 - 1950)
"Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities. "
Voltaire French author, humanist, rationalist, & satirist (1694 - 1778)
Bertrand Russell British author, mathematician, & philosopher (1872 - 1970)
Spent a significant portion of yesterday at a place called Big Space, where kids have virtually unlimited playing opportunities and parents can join in or have a drink and read etc. Great fun!
The subject of belief is an intriguing one, and yet it is one that has much charge and consequence for the world. Belief, by definition, is not the same as knowledge. For, with knowledge, there is fact to back it up, a practical, tangible body of evidence that leaves little room for doubt (though there will be those who doubt practical reality itself). Whereas belief often relies on faith, on acceptance of a doctrine or premise, which often cannot be proven. And indeed, there are some beliefs which are beyond the possibility of proof. So, inherently, the question of whether a belief is true or false is pointless. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. What is the effect of the belief? What does it lead to? Surely, this is a more pertinent focus of attention than whether it is true or false.
So that brings us to Bertrand Russell's amusing quote. Given that my beliefs, regardless of how useful they are in guiding my life and helping me be a good person, are not definitely true, does it make sense for me to die for my beliefs? Or does that dogmatic martyrdom stem from a lack of value prioritization? Have I conducted the internal exercise of asking myself what my most important values are? Would life feature lower down the list than my beliefs? Honestly? What if I died for a belief that was subsequently proven to be false? How annoying that would be! I could die to save life (Life is my highest value) but not for much else.
Here are some more quotes on the subject of belief.
"Some people are so ready to die for their beliefs that they forget to live by them" - Bobo West
"The fact that a believer is happier than a skeptic is no more to the point than the fact that a drunken man is happier than a sober one. "
George Bernard Shaw Irish dramatist & socialist (1856 - 1950)
"Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities. "
Voltaire French author, humanist, rationalist, & satirist (1694 - 1778)
Sunday 27 May 2007
Bank
"A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove that you don't need it. "
Bob Hope US (English-born) actor & comedian (1903 - 2003)
Great weekend (so far). Another Taijutsu session passed without any damage to my back, a very encouraging result, given that my training partner was a senior black belt with strong ninja tendencies. Set up a newish PC - I'd forgotten how long it takes from installing the operating system to the service packs and then the updates & security etc. And I need to open the PC up to stick in some more memory - my son's video games demand it :-). Don't worry, we're talking 20 minutes of powerboat racing, not 3 hours of violent combat. My mother-in-law arrived yesterday with goodies from Italy, and how do I show my gratitude? I let her watch UFC 71 with me - dohh!
Today's quote is amusing but has some truth to it. Think about it. You have to demonstrate a fair degree of financial well-being in order to get a loan from a bank. If you really need the money i.e. are financially struggling, you have less chance of getting the loan approved than if you don't really need the money i.e. are financially strong. That is because the bank want to get their money back with interest! Simple, really.
Bob Hope US (English-born) actor & comedian (1903 - 2003)
Great weekend (so far). Another Taijutsu session passed without any damage to my back, a very encouraging result, given that my training partner was a senior black belt with strong ninja tendencies. Set up a newish PC - I'd forgotten how long it takes from installing the operating system to the service packs and then the updates & security etc. And I need to open the PC up to stick in some more memory - my son's video games demand it :-). Don't worry, we're talking 20 minutes of powerboat racing, not 3 hours of violent combat. My mother-in-law arrived yesterday with goodies from Italy, and how do I show my gratitude? I let her watch UFC 71 with me - dohh!
Today's quote is amusing but has some truth to it. Think about it. You have to demonstrate a fair degree of financial well-being in order to get a loan from a bank. If you really need the money i.e. are financially struggling, you have less chance of getting the loan approved than if you don't really need the money i.e. are financially strong. That is because the bank want to get their money back with interest! Simple, really.
Friday 25 May 2007
Argument
"The Argument from Intimidation is a confession of intellectual impotence. "
Ayn Rand, The Virtue of Selfishness, 1964
US (Russian-born) novelist (1905 - 1982)
A day of coaching and consulting. Many interesting developments and possibilities. No arguments though. It has always intrigued me as to how intellectually lazy people become, how unwilling or perhaps unable they are to engage in prolonged discussion where views differ. It seems much easier for them to threaten or dismiss or shout rather than really go into the issue. Even when you are right in an argument, you can still learn something from the other person's viewpoint. Surely, it must be worth it, if the person has any value whatsoever to you, to explore ideas together. Good argument sharpens the intellect and expands awareness, and both parties benefit.
OK, Mr West, let's test this out. How about parents with their kids? You tell your kid to do something, and they argue that they don't want to do it. Which road do you take? The road of authority/intimidation or the road of reason? Hmm, tricky. Maybe it depends on the kid and the situation. My son does not respond very well to authority/intimidation unless it is backed up by reason. So I have found that reason is far more effective with him (and forces me to think); though when he is in the wrong and knows it, authority/intimidation is works very well too.
I guess, the test of a concept is extrapolation. If everyone did it, what would the world be like? Would everyone be arguing indefinitely, or would we avoid most of the mindless violence and lazy hatred that plagues our world? I suspect that if reason were to feature highly on people's agendas and arguments were conducted with integrity and a quest for understanding, then we could be looking at a utopia of sorts. That's my argument for reason ....
Ayn Rand, The Virtue of Selfishness, 1964
US (Russian-born) novelist (1905 - 1982)
A day of coaching and consulting. Many interesting developments and possibilities. No arguments though. It has always intrigued me as to how intellectually lazy people become, how unwilling or perhaps unable they are to engage in prolonged discussion where views differ. It seems much easier for them to threaten or dismiss or shout rather than really go into the issue. Even when you are right in an argument, you can still learn something from the other person's viewpoint. Surely, it must be worth it, if the person has any value whatsoever to you, to explore ideas together. Good argument sharpens the intellect and expands awareness, and both parties benefit.
OK, Mr West, let's test this out. How about parents with their kids? You tell your kid to do something, and they argue that they don't want to do it. Which road do you take? The road of authority/intimidation or the road of reason? Hmm, tricky. Maybe it depends on the kid and the situation. My son does not respond very well to authority/intimidation unless it is backed up by reason. So I have found that reason is far more effective with him (and forces me to think); though when he is in the wrong and knows it, authority/intimidation is works very well too.
I guess, the test of a concept is extrapolation. If everyone did it, what would the world be like? Would everyone be arguing indefinitely, or would we avoid most of the mindless violence and lazy hatred that plagues our world? I suspect that if reason were to feature highly on people's agendas and arguments were conducted with integrity and a quest for understanding, then we could be looking at a utopia of sorts. That's my argument for reason ....
Thursday 24 May 2007
Anger
"When anger rises, think of the consequences. "
Confucius Chinese philosopher & reformer (551 BC - 479 BC)
Another warm day yesterday. Royal Mail finally came through and my important parcel was delivered. I did a fair bit of career coaching and started informing some clients that I would be moving on in July - not very well received ... I also witnessed a classic case of road rage.
What is it about anger that is so attractive and compelling to us? We know that it serves little useful purpose, although it may temporarily raise our energy level beyond apathy, grief, fear and desire. And yet we still habitually get angry about even the most trivial (in the greater scheme of life) things. Why? Well, because we're human, most people would say. Getting angry is natural, perhaps even useful in terms of giving you critical information that something is not right in your world. It is the staying angry that does not add value. I suspect that it satisfies some human needs - certainty, variety, significance and connection.
Imagine a woman whose husband is aloof and unattentive in a stagnant and boring relationship. Something happens and she gets angry and starts to scream at him or throw things or pack her bags etc. Suddenly, she gets the expected reaction from him (certainty), a surge of emotional energy and charge (variety), a feeling of importance (significance) and finally getting his full attention (engagement). She stays angry...
What is the problem with sustained anger? It often (but not always) leads to rash decisions or actions that may have consequences. Good old Confucius suugests that we contemplate the consequences of our anger as it rises. I find it helpful to acknowledge the anger as anger as it rises first, because that must be the first step. Otherwise, you don't even realise you are angry until it is too late. So I might observe and almost savour the anger as it builds up:
"Mmm, I'm getting really pissed off"
This takes some of the charge out of the anger by undermining the inevitability of the reaction. This is the power of observation. Getting curious about why your're angry and about what this anger could lead to might avoid unnecessary problems. It may even lead to positive insights. A lot of the problems in the world are caused by anger ...
Confucius Chinese philosopher & reformer (551 BC - 479 BC)
Another warm day yesterday. Royal Mail finally came through and my important parcel was delivered. I did a fair bit of career coaching and started informing some clients that I would be moving on in July - not very well received ... I also witnessed a classic case of road rage.
What is it about anger that is so attractive and compelling to us? We know that it serves little useful purpose, although it may temporarily raise our energy level beyond apathy, grief, fear and desire. And yet we still habitually get angry about even the most trivial (in the greater scheme of life) things. Why? Well, because we're human, most people would say. Getting angry is natural, perhaps even useful in terms of giving you critical information that something is not right in your world. It is the staying angry that does not add value. I suspect that it satisfies some human needs - certainty, variety, significance and connection.
Imagine a woman whose husband is aloof and unattentive in a stagnant and boring relationship. Something happens and she gets angry and starts to scream at him or throw things or pack her bags etc. Suddenly, she gets the expected reaction from him (certainty), a surge of emotional energy and charge (variety), a feeling of importance (significance) and finally getting his full attention (engagement). She stays angry...
What is the problem with sustained anger? It often (but not always) leads to rash decisions or actions that may have consequences. Good old Confucius suugests that we contemplate the consequences of our anger as it rises. I find it helpful to acknowledge the anger as anger as it rises first, because that must be the first step. Otherwise, you don't even realise you are angry until it is too late. So I might observe and almost savour the anger as it builds up:
"Mmm, I'm getting really pissed off"
This takes some of the charge out of the anger by undermining the inevitability of the reaction. This is the power of observation. Getting curious about why your're angry and about what this anger could lead to might avoid unnecessary problems. It may even lead to positive insights. A lot of the problems in the world are caused by anger ...
Wednesday 23 May 2007
Old Age
"Wisdom doesn't automatically come with old age. Nothing does - except wrinkles. It's true, some wines improve with age. But only if the grapes were good in the first place. "
Abigail Van Buren, 1978 US advice columnist (1918 - )
Yesterday was a day of meetings.The idea of experience cropped up more than a few times. The automatic assumption is that experience comes with age. Of course, this may or may not be true. It all depends on the individual (though, all things being equal, an an older person is more likely to be more experienced). You can have 30 years' experience or you can have 1 year's experience 30 times. Age, in itself, does not necessarily convey as much as we might assume.
Physically, aging does have an effect, but this can vary wildly between individuals. The grandmaster of Taijutsu - Dr Hatsumi Masaaki - is 76 years old, but few would survive in a fight with him. My grandfather lived to the age of 93 when he died suddenly; prior to that, it was virtually impossible to keep up with him. And there are many other examples. What makes these individuals "defy" aging? Well, they simply keep active.
Mentally, aging does have an effect as we are losing brain cells constantly. However, this can be compensated for by building more connections between brain cells, which an older person would have had more opportunity to do. So the mentally active person does not suffer the effects of aging on a mental level; there are countless chess players who would testify to this. And, in cultures where older people are revered and empowered, they resist the mental pull of aging much better than those in cultures where older people are cared for. You use it or lose it.
So the challenge is to cultivate the habits that will sustain us as the years go by, habits that will avoid the degradation effects of neglect. We must not neglect our bodies and we must not neglect our minds. Practicing a martial art and playing chess are just one habit couple - there are many more...
Abigail Van Buren, 1978 US advice columnist (1918 - )
Yesterday was a day of meetings.The idea of experience cropped up more than a few times. The automatic assumption is that experience comes with age. Of course, this may or may not be true. It all depends on the individual (though, all things being equal, an an older person is more likely to be more experienced). You can have 30 years' experience or you can have 1 year's experience 30 times. Age, in itself, does not necessarily convey as much as we might assume.
Physically, aging does have an effect, but this can vary wildly between individuals. The grandmaster of Taijutsu - Dr Hatsumi Masaaki - is 76 years old, but few would survive in a fight with him. My grandfather lived to the age of 93 when he died suddenly; prior to that, it was virtually impossible to keep up with him. And there are many other examples. What makes these individuals "defy" aging? Well, they simply keep active.
Mentally, aging does have an effect as we are losing brain cells constantly. However, this can be compensated for by building more connections between brain cells, which an older person would have had more opportunity to do. So the mentally active person does not suffer the effects of aging on a mental level; there are countless chess players who would testify to this. And, in cultures where older people are revered and empowered, they resist the mental pull of aging much better than those in cultures where older people are cared for. You use it or lose it.
So the challenge is to cultivate the habits that will sustain us as the years go by, habits that will avoid the degradation effects of neglect. We must not neglect our bodies and we must not neglect our minds. Practicing a martial art and playing chess are just one habit couple - there are many more...
Tuesday 22 May 2007
Advertising
"What is the difference between unethical and ethical advertising? Unethical advertising uses falsehoods to deceive the public; ethical advertising uses truth to deceive the public. "
Vilhjalmur Stefansson, "Discovery", 1964 Canadian explorer & ethnologist (1879 - 1962)
Had a full day yesterday in the office. Got home and watched Gladiators with my son (yes , I know) then the neighbours came round to have a drink and a chat. After they had gone home, I put my son to bed and my wife crashed as well. I was tempted to follow suit, also having had a tiring day. But I had received a text from a friend saying they were going to a fantastic jam session near me. So I popped out to the local pub to meet them only to head back home to get my musical equipment - snare drum, stand and drumsticks. It was worth it - what a great evening of music we had! I was very grateful for that advertising text, though I ended up going to bed at 1:30am.
What about advertising then? The quotation suggests that regardless of the accuracy of the claims, the objective of the advert is to deceive the viewer. If deceiving the viewer includes influencing the viewer into making a decision to buy a product or service, then I agree. Is influencing the same as deceiving? Hmm, that doesn't sound right. Or do adverts actually go a little further? Do they not conjure up an image or a feeling (e.g. through music) that the viewer is led to believe they will get if they buy the advertised product or service? So rather than simply sell the product or service on the basis of functionality and tangible benefits, the adverts often go further - selling an image or feeling that is perhaps not guaranteed at all, and may even be spurious. This is where the deceit may occur even if their claims about the product or service are true.
So let's bring this closer to home. What about us, when we try to influence others? We don't call it advertising, but that is probably what we are effectively doing (perhaps in an unsophisticated way), whether it is persuading someone to buy a new gadget or see a film. Do we sell the facts and tangible benefits or do we sell the image and feelings?
Vilhjalmur Stefansson, "Discovery", 1964 Canadian explorer & ethnologist (1879 - 1962)
Had a full day yesterday in the office. Got home and watched Gladiators with my son (yes , I know) then the neighbours came round to have a drink and a chat. After they had gone home, I put my son to bed and my wife crashed as well. I was tempted to follow suit, also having had a tiring day. But I had received a text from a friend saying they were going to a fantastic jam session near me. So I popped out to the local pub to meet them only to head back home to get my musical equipment - snare drum, stand and drumsticks. It was worth it - what a great evening of music we had! I was very grateful for that advertising text, though I ended up going to bed at 1:30am.
What about advertising then? The quotation suggests that regardless of the accuracy of the claims, the objective of the advert is to deceive the viewer. If deceiving the viewer includes influencing the viewer into making a decision to buy a product or service, then I agree. Is influencing the same as deceiving? Hmm, that doesn't sound right. Or do adverts actually go a little further? Do they not conjure up an image or a feeling (e.g. through music) that the viewer is led to believe they will get if they buy the advertised product or service? So rather than simply sell the product or service on the basis of functionality and tangible benefits, the adverts often go further - selling an image or feeling that is perhaps not guaranteed at all, and may even be spurious. This is where the deceit may occur even if their claims about the product or service are true.
So let's bring this closer to home. What about us, when we try to influence others? We don't call it advertising, but that is probably what we are effectively doing (perhaps in an unsophisticated way), whether it is persuading someone to buy a new gadget or see a film. Do we sell the facts and tangible benefits or do we sell the image and feelings?
The Superior Man
"The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions. "
Confucius, The Confucian Analects, Chinese philosopher & reformer (551 BC - 479 BC)
A day of acquisitions yesterday, in more ways than one. Had a good forgiveness opportunity when I discovered that my parcel had not yet been delivered by the Royal Mail. I could have been furious, given the importance of the contents and the fact that I had paid a bit extra to guarantee the delivery. But, in a rare show of self-mastery, I greeted this development with compassion and almost a sense of gratitude for the experience! I spoke to a very pleasant individual at the post office who was extremely helpful :-). I helped someone in need in the process. I found a very useful feature on the internet. I had great conversations with various people about lost parcel experiences. And I had a great entry for my daily journal. Extraordinary.
Today's quote is dedicated to a team of professionals that I work with currently. They are called the Basis Team. And their motto seems to be "underpromise and overdeliver". I think that phrase says it all.
Confucius, The Confucian Analects, Chinese philosopher & reformer (551 BC - 479 BC)
A day of acquisitions yesterday, in more ways than one. Had a good forgiveness opportunity when I discovered that my parcel had not yet been delivered by the Royal Mail. I could have been furious, given the importance of the contents and the fact that I had paid a bit extra to guarantee the delivery. But, in a rare show of self-mastery, I greeted this development with compassion and almost a sense of gratitude for the experience! I spoke to a very pleasant individual at the post office who was extremely helpful :-). I helped someone in need in the process. I found a very useful feature on the internet. I had great conversations with various people about lost parcel experiences. And I had a great entry for my daily journal. Extraordinary.
Today's quote is dedicated to a team of professionals that I work with currently. They are called the Basis Team. And their motto seems to be "underpromise and overdeliver". I think that phrase says it all.
Sunday 20 May 2007
Advice
"Never trust the advice of a man in difficulties. "
Aesop Greek slave & fable author (620 BC - 560 BC)
A day of gardening yesterday. And lot's of play. A very short musing today. Whose advice do we trust? Someone in difficulty or someone whose life is going well. Perhaps the best is someone who was in difficulty and overcame it to do well? It is worth taking a good look at the source of any advice that you are offered. It is possible for good advice to come from someone in difficulties, but it is more risky. When you squeeze a lemon, all you get is lemon juice....and some seeds.
Aesop Greek slave & fable author (620 BC - 560 BC)
A day of gardening yesterday. And lot's of play. A very short musing today. Whose advice do we trust? Someone in difficulty or someone whose life is going well. Perhaps the best is someone who was in difficulty and overcame it to do well? It is worth taking a good look at the source of any advice that you are offered. It is possible for good advice to come from someone in difficulties, but it is more risky. When you squeeze a lemon, all you get is lemon juice....and some seeds.
Saturday 19 May 2007
Low Aim
"Not failure, but low aim, is a crime"
- James Russell Lowell (1819-1891) American poet, critic, editor, diplomat
My back survived yesterday's Taijutsu activities though I only did one hour rather than two and a half. And then Chelsea won the FA Cup. Not a bad day really!
How easy is it to avoid the pain of failure by aiming low? Can it not be tempting sometimes to play small? And if you can do well without having to do your best, is that not compelling? Is this simply laziness? Or is it fear of failure? This is a crucial issue that is hidden well especially by talented people (and most if not all people are talented, in some way). They use their talent to do well, without having to aim particularly high. So they stay in a comfort zone, which is safe from the pain of failure, but way below what they are capable of. To the outside world, particularly those who do not know them well, they may seem successful. But they, at their deepest core, will feel a gnawing ache of unfulfilment.
But why can't they just be happy with what they have? Why do they need to do more if they are already doing well? Well, the great Jim Rohn said it well:
"Doing less than you can messes with your mind" - Jim Rohn
Our talent has to be exploited, like a crucial mineral reserve, and used to create value in the world. That makes us flow and makes the world flow. And there is another angle to this that is compelling: there may be thousands of people counting on you to step into your greatness. Yes, this is not an exaggeration or overestimating your potential significance. It is an inspiring fact. If you do your best, using your gifts, the value you would bring to the world could affected thousands, perhaps millions.
The question is, will you aim high or will you aim low?
- James Russell Lowell (1819-1891) American poet, critic, editor, diplomat
My back survived yesterday's Taijutsu activities though I only did one hour rather than two and a half. And then Chelsea won the FA Cup. Not a bad day really!
How easy is it to avoid the pain of failure by aiming low? Can it not be tempting sometimes to play small? And if you can do well without having to do your best, is that not compelling? Is this simply laziness? Or is it fear of failure? This is a crucial issue that is hidden well especially by talented people (and most if not all people are talented, in some way). They use their talent to do well, without having to aim particularly high. So they stay in a comfort zone, which is safe from the pain of failure, but way below what they are capable of. To the outside world, particularly those who do not know them well, they may seem successful. But they, at their deepest core, will feel a gnawing ache of unfulfilment.
But why can't they just be happy with what they have? Why do they need to do more if they are already doing well? Well, the great Jim Rohn said it well:
"Doing less than you can messes with your mind" - Jim Rohn
Our talent has to be exploited, like a crucial mineral reserve, and used to create value in the world. That makes us flow and makes the world flow. And there is another angle to this that is compelling: there may be thousands of people counting on you to step into your greatness. Yes, this is not an exaggeration or overestimating your potential significance. It is an inspiring fact. If you do your best, using your gifts, the value you would bring to the world could affected thousands, perhaps millions.
The question is, will you aim high or will you aim low?
Casualness
"Casualness leads to casualties" - Jim Rohn
Big development at work yesterday - almost made me reconsider my career decision, but I decided that I had definitely made the right choice. Today is a big day for me, physically. I have my first bout of Taijutsu for three months, after being given the all-clear by my back specialist. It is with some nervousness that I reenter the arena of the ninja, knowing that the slightest lack of concentration or a slump into casualness could set me back (no pun intended)....
Big development at work yesterday - almost made me reconsider my career decision, but I decided that I had definitely made the right choice. Today is a big day for me, physically. I have my first bout of Taijutsu for three months, after being given the all-clear by my back specialist. It is with some nervousness that I reenter the arena of the ninja, knowing that the slightest lack of concentration or a slump into casualness could set me back (no pun intended)....
Friday 18 May 2007
Becoming By Acting
"Men acquire a particular quality by constantly acting a particular way... you become just by performing just actions, temperate by performing temperate actions, brave by performing brave actions. "
Aristotle Greek critic, philosopher, physicist, & zoologist (384 BC - 322 BC)
A tiring day yesterday. Perhaps more to do with my relaxing of good habits (drinking fluids regularly, chewing properly, breathing, regular breaks etc) than extraordinary levels of activity and achievement :-). So I'll take that as feedback to revert to the productive and energizing disciplines.
The power of habits is often understated. There isn't really much to say further on this - only action is necessary. Perhaps a couple of additional quotes:
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit." - Aristotle
"First we make our habits, and then our habits make us" - John Dryden
Aristotle Greek critic, philosopher, physicist, & zoologist (384 BC - 322 BC)
A tiring day yesterday. Perhaps more to do with my relaxing of good habits (drinking fluids regularly, chewing properly, breathing, regular breaks etc) than extraordinary levels of activity and achievement :-). So I'll take that as feedback to revert to the productive and energizing disciplines.
The power of habits is often understated. There isn't really much to say further on this - only action is necessary. Perhaps a couple of additional quotes:
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit." - Aristotle
"First we make our habits, and then our habits make us" - John Dryden
Wednesday 16 May 2007
The Causes of Action
"All human actions have one or more of these seven causes: chance, nature, compulsion, habit, reason, passion, and desire."
Aristotle Greek critic, philosopher, physicist, & zoologist (384 BC - 322 BC)
Great day yesterday. Got my MRI scan results and was told that my spine was anatomically perfect (yes!!!). Also had my tooth repaired very quickly and then spent a tremendous afternoon working from home, after an award-winning lunch (eba with okro soup). And then there was The Apprentice...
Action is the key. We know that. But what causes action? Well, Aristotle was no slouch, and seemed to cover the most important topics thousands of years ago. The first two causes, chance and nature, appear to be uncontrollable. Compulsion can be shaped by education. Habit is a massive cause - some say 90% of what we do is habitual, so a lot of the strategies away from CSD ("Could, Should, Don't) involve habit. Reason is probably used more as an explanation for actions rather than being a real cause, though some people do act on reason. Passion and desire are probably more causative than reason, in practice.
So by looking at these causes, particularly the powerful ones, we can begin to affect our lives significantly. It would be interesting to monitor some of your actions for a day and classify them as above....
Aristotle Greek critic, philosopher, physicist, & zoologist (384 BC - 322 BC)
Great day yesterday. Got my MRI scan results and was told that my spine was anatomically perfect (yes!!!). Also had my tooth repaired very quickly and then spent a tremendous afternoon working from home, after an award-winning lunch (eba with okro soup). And then there was The Apprentice...
Action is the key. We know that. But what causes action? Well, Aristotle was no slouch, and seemed to cover the most important topics thousands of years ago. The first two causes, chance and nature, appear to be uncontrollable. Compulsion can be shaped by education. Habit is a massive cause - some say 90% of what we do is habitual, so a lot of the strategies away from CSD ("Could, Should, Don't) involve habit. Reason is probably used more as an explanation for actions rather than being a real cause, though some people do act on reason. Passion and desire are probably more causative than reason, in practice.
So by looking at these causes, particularly the powerful ones, we can begin to affect our lives significantly. It would be interesting to monitor some of your actions for a day and classify them as above....
Tuesday 15 May 2007
Words and Action
"We have too many high sounding words, and too few actions that correspond with them."
- Abigail Adams, letter to John Adams, 1774, US wife of John Adams 1764 (1744 - 1818)
I sealed the deal yesterday and felt the warm glow of making the right decision. Now I have lots of other business to progress; but a significant milestone has been reached.
I had a conversation with a prospective business partner yesterday, which touched on the importance of action. The fact that lack of action is the source of much failure and unfulfilled dreams is clear, and we have covered this in several articles on CSD ("Could, Should, Don't"). This quote takes an interesting angle, which is the relationship between our words and our actions. Perhaps our use of language may intensify the incongruence between our words and actions. Our lack of integrity (doing what we say) may be amplified by the lofty language that we sometimes might use to disguise our CSD infestation. Do our actions live up to those words? Something to think about...
- Abigail Adams, letter to John Adams, 1774, US wife of John Adams 1764 (1744 - 1818)
I sealed the deal yesterday and felt the warm glow of making the right decision. Now I have lots of other business to progress; but a significant milestone has been reached.
I had a conversation with a prospective business partner yesterday, which touched on the importance of action. The fact that lack of action is the source of much failure and unfulfilled dreams is clear, and we have covered this in several articles on CSD ("Could, Should, Don't"). This quote takes an interesting angle, which is the relationship between our words and our actions. Perhaps our use of language may intensify the incongruence between our words and actions. Our lack of integrity (doing what we say) may be amplified by the lofty language that we sometimes might use to disguise our CSD infestation. Do our actions live up to those words? Something to think about...
Monday 14 May 2007
Fanatic
"A fanatic is one who can't change his mind and won't change the subject."
- Sir Winston Churchill, British politician (1874 - 1965)
I made an important career decision yesterday that reflected my values rather than my fantasies - quite a key distinction for me. It rained for most of the day, but there was a 3 hour respite in the evening so we had a barbeque (the highlight was chicken in Reggae sauce) - carpe diem!
In the world we live in, where there is so much hatred and violence, I wonder how much of this is due to mental inflexibility. For many people, the response to uncertainty is to revert to dogma, rather than undergo the hard work of thinking. Not only will they not entertain other possibilities, but they will also make the issue central in their lives until it consumes them, sometimes literally. Is fanaticism then, simply a dangerous form of mental laziness? I guess we must be careful who we call lazy :-).
I believe that laziness is at the heart of many human failings like hatred, fanaticism, prejudice etc. It is the lack of inclination or discipline to think. The path of least resistance or at least least effort is the rigid one. And yet the changing world requires more flexibility.....
- Sir Winston Churchill, British politician (1874 - 1965)
I made an important career decision yesterday that reflected my values rather than my fantasies - quite a key distinction for me. It rained for most of the day, but there was a 3 hour respite in the evening so we had a barbeque (the highlight was chicken in Reggae sauce) - carpe diem!
In the world we live in, where there is so much hatred and violence, I wonder how much of this is due to mental inflexibility. For many people, the response to uncertainty is to revert to dogma, rather than undergo the hard work of thinking. Not only will they not entertain other possibilities, but they will also make the issue central in their lives until it consumes them, sometimes literally. Is fanaticism then, simply a dangerous form of mental laziness? I guess we must be careful who we call lazy :-).
I believe that laziness is at the heart of many human failings like hatred, fanaticism, prejudice etc. It is the lack of inclination or discipline to think. The path of least resistance or at least least effort is the rigid one. And yet the changing world requires more flexibility.....
Sunday 13 May 2007
Better be wise
"Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own. "
Aesop Greek slave & fable author (620 BC - 560 BC)
The rain is back. Our flirtation with bright sunshine has been curtailed and the solid British weather has made a spectacular return. We toyed with the idea of a BBQ yesterday, after a bout of retail therapy (for my mum and sister I must add), but opted for an excellent south Indian takeaway instead. There was a window of about one and a half hours of sunshine...
We have discussed the value of making mistakes and learning from them. What powerful lessons are learnt when we meet with misfortune and can understand the source of our errors. However, given the number and depth of lessons to be learnt, can we really afford to make that many mistakes? If foxes had a better communication system, might they not have documented that crossing motorways was hazardous? Or would they opt to determine each one for himself through trial and error? The grisly evidence on the motorway tells its own story. Surely, it is wise to learn from other people's misfortunes rather than yours; because you cannot sustain many misfortunes without paying a high price.
So we must pay attention to what goes wrong in other people's lives, just as much as we must pay attention to what goes right. For the world is a classroom that offers us lessons, both experiential or vicarious. The former we get by default - there is no escape. The latter offers us a fast track...
Aesop Greek slave & fable author (620 BC - 560 BC)
The rain is back. Our flirtation with bright sunshine has been curtailed and the solid British weather has made a spectacular return. We toyed with the idea of a BBQ yesterday, after a bout of retail therapy (for my mum and sister I must add), but opted for an excellent south Indian takeaway instead. There was a window of about one and a half hours of sunshine...
We have discussed the value of making mistakes and learning from them. What powerful lessons are learnt when we meet with misfortune and can understand the source of our errors. However, given the number and depth of lessons to be learnt, can we really afford to make that many mistakes? If foxes had a better communication system, might they not have documented that crossing motorways was hazardous? Or would they opt to determine each one for himself through trial and error? The grisly evidence on the motorway tells its own story. Surely, it is wise to learn from other people's misfortunes rather than yours; because you cannot sustain many misfortunes without paying a high price.
So we must pay attention to what goes wrong in other people's lives, just as much as we must pay attention to what goes right. For the world is a classroom that offers us lessons, both experiential or vicarious. The former we get by default - there is no escape. The latter offers us a fast track...
What you think of me
"What you think of me is none of my business"
- Terry Cole-Whittaker (B. 1939) American evangelist, author
I tested an important journey yesterday to help me in making a career decision. There was also a bit of shopping and the fun of Eurovision...
Being independent of the good opinion of others is a critical attribute to inculcate in oneself. The alternative is to be a slave to people's opinions of you. You end up trying to please people and compromise your innermost values in the process. You get upset by people's opinions of you, whether expressed or simply inferred. You waste tremendous energy worrying about what someone thinks about you or really meant etc. You open yourself up to pointless stress and suffering.
So does that mean you must become a cold, uncaring cyborg, not moved by people's perceptions of you? Does it mean that you will not examine your own flaws that people may be showing you through their opinions of you? Do you become aloof, perhaps even arrogant in your immunity from taking criticism to heart? Or do you simply have a well-developed self-image, which is robust and flexible enough to process feedback from others and use it to extract useful insights that can aid your progress? Are you simply able to discern the portion of people's opinions that is just a product of their thought system and life experiences, a reflection of their unique perception and perhaps little to do with you?
This is where asking the right questions can be useful. In a particular situation where you have been described by someone as being selfish, you can ask yourself several different questions. For example;
"How can he/she accuse me of something like that?!!!"
"Do I care if he/she thinks I'm selfish?"
"Oh no, am I really selfish? Have I always been? Oh no! I feel really guilty now!"
"I know I'm not selfish. Is he/she simply projecting their own selfishness?"
There are also several other statements (perhaps expletives) you might utter. It strikes me that a question like
"Why did he/she say that?" or "What did I do that may have led to that interpretation?" provides a more balanced approach. You may still end up concluding that you are not selfish or that you are, but the key is that you start from a more "scientific" base. You actually examine the issue without defences or insecurities jumping into the fray. You are genuinely curious.
So perhaps that is the answer. Curiosity. Rather than take things personally, maybe we simple need to become curious. So, what you think of me is none of my business, but if you tell me then I should be curious rather than emotional.
- Terry Cole-Whittaker (B. 1939) American evangelist, author
I tested an important journey yesterday to help me in making a career decision. There was also a bit of shopping and the fun of Eurovision...
Being independent of the good opinion of others is a critical attribute to inculcate in oneself. The alternative is to be a slave to people's opinions of you. You end up trying to please people and compromise your innermost values in the process. You get upset by people's opinions of you, whether expressed or simply inferred. You waste tremendous energy worrying about what someone thinks about you or really meant etc. You open yourself up to pointless stress and suffering.
So does that mean you must become a cold, uncaring cyborg, not moved by people's perceptions of you? Does it mean that you will not examine your own flaws that people may be showing you through their opinions of you? Do you become aloof, perhaps even arrogant in your immunity from taking criticism to heart? Or do you simply have a well-developed self-image, which is robust and flexible enough to process feedback from others and use it to extract useful insights that can aid your progress? Are you simply able to discern the portion of people's opinions that is just a product of their thought system and life experiences, a reflection of their unique perception and perhaps little to do with you?
This is where asking the right questions can be useful. In a particular situation where you have been described by someone as being selfish, you can ask yourself several different questions. For example;
"How can he/she accuse me of something like that?!!!"
"Do I care if he/she thinks I'm selfish?"
"Oh no, am I really selfish? Have I always been? Oh no! I feel really guilty now!"
"I know I'm not selfish. Is he/she simply projecting their own selfishness?"
There are also several other statements (perhaps expletives) you might utter. It strikes me that a question like
"Why did he/she say that?" or "What did I do that may have led to that interpretation?" provides a more balanced approach. You may still end up concluding that you are not selfish or that you are, but the key is that you start from a more "scientific" base. You actually examine the issue without defences or insecurities jumping into the fray. You are genuinely curious.
So perhaps that is the answer. Curiosity. Rather than take things personally, maybe we simple need to become curious. So, what you think of me is none of my business, but if you tell me then I should be curious rather than emotional.
Friday 11 May 2007
An Educated Mind
"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it. "
- Aristotle
Lots of family time yesterday - my son and nephew having a ball. I had to listen to and understand different people's points of view, though I stopped just short of acceptance.
If you watch people arguing, pay attention to the respect that they give each other's arguments. If my mind is not robust and flexible, then I may need dogma to keep it safe from "rogue" ideas. So if I am in an argument, and someone puts forward an idea that I don't agree with, I will not even allow the idea through the front gate. I will shoot it down on the road. I certainly will not entertain it. That would be too risky - I might begin to shake the fragile foundations of my thought system. However, if my mind is robust and flexible, I would actually take a good look at their point of view, suspend my bias temporarily and seek to see the value of their argument. I may update my view, having learnt something; or I may be able to to better present my argument, having understood their argument or the flaws in it.
"Seek first to understand, and then to be understood" - Stephen R Covey (The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People)
Every argument is a learning opportunity. But only if you are willing to learn. That is probably the essence of an educated mind, rather than having been through school, university etc. Let's practise this discpline today - could be fun, seek out some arguments!
- Aristotle
Lots of family time yesterday - my son and nephew having a ball. I had to listen to and understand different people's points of view, though I stopped just short of acceptance.
If you watch people arguing, pay attention to the respect that they give each other's arguments. If my mind is not robust and flexible, then I may need dogma to keep it safe from "rogue" ideas. So if I am in an argument, and someone puts forward an idea that I don't agree with, I will not even allow the idea through the front gate. I will shoot it down on the road. I certainly will not entertain it. That would be too risky - I might begin to shake the fragile foundations of my thought system. However, if my mind is robust and flexible, I would actually take a good look at their point of view, suspend my bias temporarily and seek to see the value of their argument. I may update my view, having learnt something; or I may be able to to better present my argument, having understood their argument or the flaws in it.
"Seek first to understand, and then to be understood" - Stephen R Covey (The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People)
Every argument is a learning opportunity. But only if you are willing to learn. That is probably the essence of an educated mind, rather than having been through school, university etc. Let's practise this discpline today - could be fun, seek out some arguments!
Mistake
"The greatest mistake a man can ever make is to be afraid of making one."
- Elbert Hubbard 1859-1915, American Author, Publisher
Very constructive day yesterday, with much achievement and a slight break from the career decision game. Fell asleep on the sofa, and woke up at 2am to find that my mum was asleep on the other sofa. That fine family tradition is still as strong as ever!
One inhibitor in life is the fear of making a mistake. It feels safer not to take action, because that way you don't risk error and consequences. But is this a delusional argument? Inaction is a form of action that leads to its own consequences. I guess that we have to be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them, otherwise we would simply paralyze ourselves and/or meet other consequences anyway.
"The man who doesn't make mistakes usually doesn't make anything" - unknown
- Elbert Hubbard 1859-1915, American Author, Publisher
Very constructive day yesterday, with much achievement and a slight break from the career decision game. Fell asleep on the sofa, and woke up at 2am to find that my mum was asleep on the other sofa. That fine family tradition is still as strong as ever!
One inhibitor in life is the fear of making a mistake. It feels safer not to take action, because that way you don't risk error and consequences. But is this a delusional argument? Inaction is a form of action that leads to its own consequences. I guess that we have to be prepared to make mistakes and learn from them, otherwise we would simply paralyze ourselves and/or meet other consequences anyway.
"The man who doesn't make mistakes usually doesn't make anything" - unknown
Wednesday 9 May 2007
Authenticity
"To know what people really think, pay regard to what they do, rather than what they say."
Rene Descartes1596-1650, Philosopher and Scientist
As predicted, yesterday was very intense and rather tiring, but some clarity on the decision front is emerging. I was reading a book on the train, which was so funny in parts that I would laugh out loud. It was a crowded train. Very soon, other people began to smile, and then there was the odd giggle...
It is an old saying that actions speak louder than words. And that is very true on several levels. If someone says that they will complete a task and don't complete it, that gives you a clue as to their real thinking. Perhaps it wasn't so important for them to complete the task, or they don't believe that they have the capacity to complete such tasks. If someone does not like me, they may say "I like you", but their body language will very quickly give the game away, even before their overt actions do.
So why is it so much easier for people to hide their thoughts in their words than in their actions?
I suspect it is because our words are more under our conscious control than our actions. And what we really think gets transmitted directly into our unconscious mind that governs a large portion of our actions. Therefore, a skilled body language expert will be able to read a person's thoughts quite well. And if someone truly believes something, their life will be a testimony to that belief.
If I claim I want to be successful, and I know what I should do, I know I could do it, but I don't do it (CSD - "Could, Should, Don't"), then what's going on? Perhaps I don't really want to be successful after all. Perhaps I have some other beliefs that go against what I say I want. Or perhaps I simply have a fear of success or failure. We may be looking at one of the root causes of CSD, a topic we discussed at length several weeks ago.
A woman keeps attracting men who abuse her, each time complaining bitterly and vowing never to date "that type" again. Yet she still goes for the same men. What is she thinking? That is exactly the question. She could choose differently, she should choose differently, but she doesn't. Maybe she thinks deep down "I'm not worthy of better" or "I deserve to be abused, just like my mother" etc. Listening to what she says would give a misleading view. Paying attention to her actions reveals a lot. A married couple who argue a lot and are on the verge of separating are interviewed. Both of them say that they want their marriage to work and that they love their partner. They say they want to be happy. But their actions suggest that they simply want to be right.
There is so much more we could explore on this. But words are "symbols of symbols, and thus are twice removed from reality". The key is to pay attention to your own actions. That tells you what you are really thinking...
Rene Descartes1596-1650, Philosopher and Scientist
As predicted, yesterday was very intense and rather tiring, but some clarity on the decision front is emerging. I was reading a book on the train, which was so funny in parts that I would laugh out loud. It was a crowded train. Very soon, other people began to smile, and then there was the odd giggle...
It is an old saying that actions speak louder than words. And that is very true on several levels. If someone says that they will complete a task and don't complete it, that gives you a clue as to their real thinking. Perhaps it wasn't so important for them to complete the task, or they don't believe that they have the capacity to complete such tasks. If someone does not like me, they may say "I like you", but their body language will very quickly give the game away, even before their overt actions do.
So why is it so much easier for people to hide their thoughts in their words than in their actions?
I suspect it is because our words are more under our conscious control than our actions. And what we really think gets transmitted directly into our unconscious mind that governs a large portion of our actions. Therefore, a skilled body language expert will be able to read a person's thoughts quite well. And if someone truly believes something, their life will be a testimony to that belief.
If I claim I want to be successful, and I know what I should do, I know I could do it, but I don't do it (CSD - "Could, Should, Don't"), then what's going on? Perhaps I don't really want to be successful after all. Perhaps I have some other beliefs that go against what I say I want. Or perhaps I simply have a fear of success or failure. We may be looking at one of the root causes of CSD, a topic we discussed at length several weeks ago.
A woman keeps attracting men who abuse her, each time complaining bitterly and vowing never to date "that type" again. Yet she still goes for the same men. What is she thinking? That is exactly the question. She could choose differently, she should choose differently, but she doesn't. Maybe she thinks deep down "I'm not worthy of better" or "I deserve to be abused, just like my mother" etc. Listening to what she says would give a misleading view. Paying attention to her actions reveals a lot. A married couple who argue a lot and are on the verge of separating are interviewed. Both of them say that they want their marriage to work and that they love their partner. They say they want to be happy. But their actions suggest that they simply want to be right.
There is so much more we could explore on this. But words are "symbols of symbols, and thus are twice removed from reality". The key is to pay attention to your own actions. That tells you what you are really thinking...
Tuesday 8 May 2007
Measurements
"The only man I know who behaves sensibly is my tailor; he takes my measurements anew each time he sees me. The rest go on with their old measurements and expect me to fit them."
- George Bernard Shaw 1856-1950, Playwright
Still in decision mode, with key choices to make. I expect that to be compounded today and I need to remember that saying yes to one means saying no to another. I guess it's a nic problem to have. My son is playing with his cousin (combined age is 7 years) - there is much discussion and decision making. Perhaps a lesson there?
This quote is not really talking about prejudice, because it the prejudgement is based on a previous knowledge of a person, rather than a generalization based on a feature. It basically highlights the habit of not updating our view of someone even when there is new information to take in. It may show up in parents not updating their view of their children as they grow up. Or in friends not updating their view of each other. Or in a married couple. The result is often predictable. There is resistance to "change".
Joe is going through some personal growth and perhaps is beginning to enjoy some success. His friends still see him as poor old Joe. They know and love poor old Joe. They have a lot of history with poor old Joe. They helped poor old Joe with his many problems and seen his many failures. They cannot see him in any other way but as poor old Joe. As he grows and transforms, they feel uneasy but do not really recognize or accept the change. They just think he is behaving strangely, or becoming a little irritating or boring. Instinctively, they try to resist him and "drag him back" to the poor old Joe that they know and love. If they are a strong group and Joe hangs out with them, it will be difficult for Joe to progress. He feels pressure to continue to fit into the old measurements, because his friends have not taken new ones.
Are we taking new measurements regularly?
- George Bernard Shaw 1856-1950, Playwright
Still in decision mode, with key choices to make. I expect that to be compounded today and I need to remember that saying yes to one means saying no to another. I guess it's a nic problem to have. My son is playing with his cousin (combined age is 7 years) - there is much discussion and decision making. Perhaps a lesson there?
This quote is not really talking about prejudice, because it the prejudgement is based on a previous knowledge of a person, rather than a generalization based on a feature. It basically highlights the habit of not updating our view of someone even when there is new information to take in. It may show up in parents not updating their view of their children as they grow up. Or in friends not updating their view of each other. Or in a married couple. The result is often predictable. There is resistance to "change".
Joe is going through some personal growth and perhaps is beginning to enjoy some success. His friends still see him as poor old Joe. They know and love poor old Joe. They have a lot of history with poor old Joe. They helped poor old Joe with his many problems and seen his many failures. They cannot see him in any other way but as poor old Joe. As he grows and transforms, they feel uneasy but do not really recognize or accept the change. They just think he is behaving strangely, or becoming a little irritating or boring. Instinctively, they try to resist him and "drag him back" to the poor old Joe that they know and love. If they are a strong group and Joe hangs out with them, it will be difficult for Joe to progress. He feels pressure to continue to fit into the old measurements, because his friends have not taken new ones.
Are we taking new measurements regularly?
Monday 7 May 2007
The Right Track
“Even if you’re on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there”
– Will Rogers (1875-1933) American actor and humorist
A rather subdued day yesterday, with an emphasis on domestic chores. I did manage to do some learning, which always adds a spark to any day.
How important is it to keep moving forward, to keep learning even when you are already an expert? In the 21st century, it is critical. Knowledge becomes obsolete at an ever-increasing rate, with good technology and techniques being superseded by new technology and techniques. In the 20th century, the emphasis was on building up a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which would serve you well and did not need much replenishment or enhancement. Things are very different now. The emphasis is now on one’s ability to learn quickly and apply the new knowledge.
The world is not standing still, so neither should you.
– Will Rogers (1875-1933) American actor and humorist
A rather subdued day yesterday, with an emphasis on domestic chores. I did manage to do some learning, which always adds a spark to any day.
How important is it to keep moving forward, to keep learning even when you are already an expert? In the 21st century, it is critical. Knowledge becomes obsolete at an ever-increasing rate, with good technology and techniques being superseded by new technology and techniques. In the 20th century, the emphasis was on building up a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which would serve you well and did not need much replenishment or enhancement. Things are very different now. The emphasis is now on one’s ability to learn quickly and apply the new knowledge.
The world is not standing still, so neither should you.
Expert
"An expert is one who knows more and more about less and less" - Nicolas Murray Butler (1862-1948) President of Columbia University
Great family day yesterday, with five little cousins united for the first time in the doting company of aunts, uncle and granny. I also broke the speed record for legal journey time to Gatwick from Hemel Hempstead. I did get a parking ticket in Knightsbridge - a residents parking space embedded in a sea of pay-at-meters on a Sunday! Perhaps there is justice after all...
How does one become an expert? By focusing attention and energy. By deepening knowledge in specific areas. Indeed, it is often necessary to narrow one's field of study in order to achieve this depth. So that is fairly clear. But does that limit us? Are experts limited in terms of the scope of their knowledge? Deep but narrow? I guess, by definition, one must say yes. However, I wonder if depth can lead to integration and hence scope. If I understand something very well, is it not possible for me to distil out some fundamental concepts which I can then apply to a vast array of other areas? Can the power of metaphor and commonality not be harnessed to leverage my expert knowledge?
My take on this is that the quotation is accurate - an expert knows more and more about less and less. But there are subsequent possibilities for dramatically expanding the scope of understanding, using one's expert knowledge. The key is the inclination to do this...
Great family day yesterday, with five little cousins united for the first time in the doting company of aunts, uncle and granny. I also broke the speed record for legal journey time to Gatwick from Hemel Hempstead. I did get a parking ticket in Knightsbridge - a residents parking space embedded in a sea of pay-at-meters on a Sunday! Perhaps there is justice after all...
How does one become an expert? By focusing attention and energy. By deepening knowledge in specific areas. Indeed, it is often necessary to narrow one's field of study in order to achieve this depth. So that is fairly clear. But does that limit us? Are experts limited in terms of the scope of their knowledge? Deep but narrow? I guess, by definition, one must say yes. However, I wonder if depth can lead to integration and hence scope. If I understand something very well, is it not possible for me to distil out some fundamental concepts which I can then apply to a vast array of other areas? Can the power of metaphor and commonality not be harnessed to leverage my expert knowledge?
My take on this is that the quotation is accurate - an expert knows more and more about less and less. But there are subsequent possibilities for dramatically expanding the scope of understanding, using one's expert knowledge. The key is the inclination to do this...
Saturday 5 May 2007
Dream
" I have a dream" - Martin Luther King Jnr
I had a dream last night of being attacked by a man with a knife. Recklessly I resisted and used my martial arts training to disarm him and broke his arm in the process. I ended up in court, but I guess I could have ended up in the morgue. But, hey, it was just a dream. Maybe it was just a mechanism to get me out of bed early enough - need to go to the airport to pick up my mum, sister & her two kids.
Of course, Martin Luther King was talking about a different type of dream, more of a vision for the future. Something to think about...Time to go, the pilot is ahead of schedule!
I had a dream last night of being attacked by a man with a knife. Recklessly I resisted and used my martial arts training to disarm him and broke his arm in the process. I ended up in court, but I guess I could have ended up in the morgue. But, hey, it was just a dream. Maybe it was just a mechanism to get me out of bed early enough - need to go to the airport to pick up my mum, sister & her two kids.
Of course, Martin Luther King was talking about a different type of dream, more of a vision for the future. Something to think about...Time to go, the pilot is ahead of schedule!
Friday 4 May 2007
Decision
"In your moments of decision, your destiny is shaped" - Anthony Robbins
Back home again, after a day of interviews and meetings. I have some key decisions to make, which will have an impact on my professional, financial and personal life. What is the best way to come to such decisions? By consultation with others or by private introspection? Or would it be a combination of both? How much can I allow others to influence me? How far ahead can I think in weighing up the pros and cons? What else must I consider? Can I trust my feelings or must brutal logic rule?
I know this. I must write. For in the medium of writing, the light of clear thought shines forth....
Back home again, after a day of interviews and meetings. I have some key decisions to make, which will have an impact on my professional, financial and personal life. What is the best way to come to such decisions? By consultation with others or by private introspection? Or would it be a combination of both? How much can I allow others to influence me? How far ahead can I think in weighing up the pros and cons? What else must I consider? Can I trust my feelings or must brutal logic rule?
I know this. I must write. For in the medium of writing, the light of clear thought shines forth....
Love
“If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were
always yours. And if they don't, they never were.”
- Kahlil Gibran, 1883-1931,
Lebanese Poet, Novelist
I woke up this morning on my sister’s sofa in London. She had to go into hospital last night with abdominal pains. Luckily, I was in London on business yesterday evening and was able to come over to look after her kids while the ambulance took her away. Her older son (9 years old) got busy managing the defragmentation of her computer hard disk after comforting her while they were waiting for the ambulance. Love in action!
Love is the big one. And Kahlil Gibran has incredible wisdom and insight. It is worth reading his book The Prophet, which illuminates several areas including the topic of love. Indeed, his quotation is so devastatingly simple and clear that I find it difficult to write much to add to it. The expression “Truth is true” seems appropriate. How easy is it to let someone go that you love, really? It is simple (and obvious) but not easy. This may be because we are possessive, whether it is in a romantic relationship, a family relationship, or a relationship with friends. We are torn between wanting them to be happy and well, and wanting them to be with us. Ideally, those two desires would be in harmony, but sometimes they are not.
We are human. And thus we have our foibles and weaknesses. So we must learn to forgive ourselves and bring more of our truly loving selves into being.
always yours. And if they don't, they never were.”
- Kahlil Gibran, 1883-1931,
Lebanese Poet, Novelist
I woke up this morning on my sister’s sofa in London. She had to go into hospital last night with abdominal pains. Luckily, I was in London on business yesterday evening and was able to come over to look after her kids while the ambulance took her away. Her older son (9 years old) got busy managing the defragmentation of her computer hard disk after comforting her while they were waiting for the ambulance. Love in action!
Love is the big one. And Kahlil Gibran has incredible wisdom and insight. It is worth reading his book The Prophet, which illuminates several areas including the topic of love. Indeed, his quotation is so devastatingly simple and clear that I find it difficult to write much to add to it. The expression “Truth is true” seems appropriate. How easy is it to let someone go that you love, really? It is simple (and obvious) but not easy. This may be because we are possessive, whether it is in a romantic relationship, a family relationship, or a relationship with friends. We are torn between wanting them to be happy and well, and wanting them to be with us. Ideally, those two desires would be in harmony, but sometimes they are not.
We are human. And thus we have our foibles and weaknesses. So we must learn to forgive ourselves and bring more of our truly loving selves into being.
Wednesday 2 May 2007
The Singing Pig
"Never try to teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time, and it annoys the pig." -- Folk saying
Well well, some consolation last night on the football :-). A busy day, with much discussion about future contracts and career options. As well as some exciting possibilities on the writing front, with some incredible stories waiting to be told.
I think today's quotation is a little piece of pure wisdom that could save so much frustration and resentment. Everyone has their features, some may be transient, others are hardcoded. Those that are hardcoded form part of what is called the personality, which research indicates doesn't change much with time. In fact, part of what shapes the personality, are signature themes - these are the seeds of talent within the person, the tendencies that they have. Ultimately, these point towards the person's gift, but that will be attained only if these signature themes are developed and expressed positively. Another contributing factor to the personality are experiences, which lead to beliefs and consequently ways of being.
Because of our unique brain wiring, there are some things that we are or can be exceptional in, and there are some things that we will never really excel at (understatement). By things, I do not necessarily mean tasks but rather specific traits. I, for example, would not describe myself as a DIY expert (understatement) - I don't instinctively know how to assemble a piece of furniture, or resolve an engine problem in my car; I don't just figure those sorts of things out, as do many people that I know. Two of my signature themes (http://www.strengthsfinder.com), however, are Intellect and Learner, so I now always ensure that I have some instructions to hand. Armed with those, I can perform the most complex DIY task.
So I haven't really changed (I can't really sing), but I can achieve my objectives by using what I have and am. It would be futile to try to make me an instinctive DIY expert; and indeed I might find it irritating.
I guess that's the key. To use your strengths to overcome your weaknesses in achieving particular objectives. And to remember not to try to change people; rather try to help them bring out their strengths.
"You can't turn a pumpkin into a tomato" - Dina West
Well well, some consolation last night on the football :-). A busy day, with much discussion about future contracts and career options. As well as some exciting possibilities on the writing front, with some incredible stories waiting to be told.
I think today's quotation is a little piece of pure wisdom that could save so much frustration and resentment. Everyone has their features, some may be transient, others are hardcoded. Those that are hardcoded form part of what is called the personality, which research indicates doesn't change much with time. In fact, part of what shapes the personality, are signature themes - these are the seeds of talent within the person, the tendencies that they have. Ultimately, these point towards the person's gift, but that will be attained only if these signature themes are developed and expressed positively. Another contributing factor to the personality are experiences, which lead to beliefs and consequently ways of being.
Because of our unique brain wiring, there are some things that we are or can be exceptional in, and there are some things that we will never really excel at (understatement). By things, I do not necessarily mean tasks but rather specific traits. I, for example, would not describe myself as a DIY expert (understatement) - I don't instinctively know how to assemble a piece of furniture, or resolve an engine problem in my car; I don't just figure those sorts of things out, as do many people that I know. Two of my signature themes (http://www.strengthsfinder.com), however, are Intellect and Learner, so I now always ensure that I have some instructions to hand. Armed with those, I can perform the most complex DIY task.
So I haven't really changed (I can't really sing), but I can achieve my objectives by using what I have and am. It would be futile to try to make me an instinctive DIY expert; and indeed I might find it irritating.
I guess that's the key. To use your strengths to overcome your weaknesses in achieving particular objectives. And to remember not to try to change people; rather try to help them bring out their strengths.
"You can't turn a pumpkin into a tomato" - Dina West
Experience
"At the end of the next 20 years you can have 20 years experience - or you can have one year's experience 20 times. It's a matter of choice."
- Richard G Nixon (b 1940)American entrepeneur, publisher, author,speaker, seminar leader
Still reeling from yesterday night's devastating result - Chelsea going out of the Champion's League. Yes, I know it's just a sport, but you need to let life touch you (but don't let it kill you!).
What is experience, really? Is it just particpating in events over time? Or must it be something more? Do you have to learn from the event, and so shape future events? Or is repetition of the event also a form of useful experience? Is repetition merely practice rather than experience? We talk about having 5 years experience or 10 years experience, but surely it is events rather than time that should take centre stage.
This is worth pondering about. But my simple take is coined from Jim Rohn:
"Don't just get through the day; get from the day" - Jim Rohn
- Richard G Nixon (b 1940)American entrepeneur, publisher, author,speaker, seminar leader
Still reeling from yesterday night's devastating result - Chelsea going out of the Champion's League. Yes, I know it's just a sport, but you need to let life touch you (but don't let it kill you!).
What is experience, really? Is it just particpating in events over time? Or must it be something more? Do you have to learn from the event, and so shape future events? Or is repetition of the event also a form of useful experience? Is repetition merely practice rather than experience? We talk about having 5 years experience or 10 years experience, but surely it is events rather than time that should take centre stage.
This is worth pondering about. But my simple take is coined from Jim Rohn:
"Don't just get through the day; get from the day" - Jim Rohn
Tuesday 1 May 2007
Enjoy The Sunshine
"Some people are making such thorough preparation for rainy days that they aren't enjoying today's sunshine."
William Feather 1889-1981, Author and Publisher
A truly remarkable morning. Such brilliant sunshine and early morning warmth. Before looking at today's quotation, I just had a thought about yesterday's quotation. We discussed how we might think that something cannot be done and then prevent anyone else from doing it (to prove ourselves right). This Dog-In-The-Manger dynamic also plays itself out internally. It's called a limiting belief. You will do anything to sabotage yourself from achieving what you think cannot be done.
I work in the area of risk management, so I am instinctively drawn to contingency planning and preventive measures. But is there a danger of missing out on the now, by continuously being focused on the if and when? I guess the trick must be to fully participate in the present, while still preparing for the future. Perhaps the concept of full participation must include planning. Part of the benefit of having lovely sunshine is that it puts you in a resourceful state of mind - excellent for basking and daydreaming, and excellent also for planning.
There are many angles to this, but the one that strikes me is our old friend gratitude. You can want and plan for new acquisitions and experiences, but you must be grateful for what you already have. In a pseudo-metaphysical way, gratitude creates the space for more to enter your life. It also represents a focus on what you value rather than what you want to avoid. And we tend to get more of what we focus on (positively or negatively). Not necessarily by some hocus-pocus mechanism, but by simply being transmitted into feelings and actions that lead to results.
So I enjoy the sunshine, am very grateful for it and expect more of it in the future, probably by taking appropriate actions (e.g. going to a sunny place :-). But I take a few minutes out to set up some rainy day insurance.....
William Feather 1889-1981, Author and Publisher
A truly remarkable morning. Such brilliant sunshine and early morning warmth. Before looking at today's quotation, I just had a thought about yesterday's quotation. We discussed how we might think that something cannot be done and then prevent anyone else from doing it (to prove ourselves right). This Dog-In-The-Manger dynamic also plays itself out internally. It's called a limiting belief. You will do anything to sabotage yourself from achieving what you think cannot be done.
I work in the area of risk management, so I am instinctively drawn to contingency planning and preventive measures. But is there a danger of missing out on the now, by continuously being focused on the if and when? I guess the trick must be to fully participate in the present, while still preparing for the future. Perhaps the concept of full participation must include planning. Part of the benefit of having lovely sunshine is that it puts you in a resourceful state of mind - excellent for basking and daydreaming, and excellent also for planning.
There are many angles to this, but the one that strikes me is our old friend gratitude. You can want and plan for new acquisitions and experiences, but you must be grateful for what you already have. In a pseudo-metaphysical way, gratitude creates the space for more to enter your life. It also represents a focus on what you value rather than what you want to avoid. And we tend to get more of what we focus on (positively or negatively). Not necessarily by some hocus-pocus mechanism, but by simply being transmitted into feelings and actions that lead to results.
So I enjoy the sunshine, am very grateful for it and expect more of it in the future, probably by taking appropriate actions (e.g. going to a sunny place :-). But I take a few minutes out to set up some rainy day insurance.....
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