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Hammock - Holding Your Absence (Oblivion Hymns)

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Choosing what to read

• If a book has been around for a long time and people still talk about it, it’s probably good.

• Read the first chapter without the obligation to continue. If you’re not having fun, it’s time to move on.

• Choose your books based on what you need to learn right now, so you can use the information you consume.

“Go to bed smarter than when you woke up.” 

- Charlie Munger

Develop a reading habit

• Start with 25 pages per day.

• Read at the same time every day.

• Start reading in between 2 already established habits.

• Make reading your default in already established routines: i.e. read while commuting to work.

• Adopt reading as a default for boredom: always carry a book with you.

• Find the best reading medium for you: physical, digital, or audio.

“Reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary.” 

- Jim Rohn

Fighting stress

• Books are an escape to your mind, transporting you into another reality. They help you take a break from the real world.

• Reading before bed can help you sleep better. It calms your mind and cues your body up for shut-eye, improving the quality of your sleep.

Memory and concentration

To read, you need to be focused for long periods of time. Your mind is forced to focus again and again from page to page on new information. Train your brain

Windows into other worlds

Books give you the ability to learn to look through other’s eyes. It’s like having a conversation with the brightest minds from any given field.

Empathy and communication

• Empathy: Books give you the context  (in the form of stories and experiences ) you can use effectively to become more empathetic.

• Communication skills: Reading will improve your vocabulary and writing. The more you read, the better you communicate. And better communication means better relationships.

Upgrading your brain

A new idea, outlook on life, mental model, is all it takes for something to click inside your brain.

Your brain will start making connections between books that seemed to be on different topics. The more you read, the more links you form and the richer your understanding becomes.

Learning constantly

To get better results in life you need to learn constantly.

And the best way to learn is to read effectively and a lot.

“Read 500 pages like this every day. That’s how knowledge works. It builds up, like compound interest. All of you can do it, but I guarantee not many of you will do it.”

- Warren Buffett

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Acknowledge that all emotions come from within

It is not outside forces that make us feel something, it is what we tell ourselves that create our feelings. 

Many of us want to place blame and responsibility on external objects because it’s easy to do, but the truth remains that all conflicts start internally, in our minds.

The next time you run into an obstacle and feel resistance, don’t look at what’s around you. Instead, look within.

Find someone you respect, and use them to stay honest

Whatever you do—create apps, draw portraits, write books, or make animation films—there are individuals that you can learn from. You can study their story, works, techniques, successes and failures.

What’s important to realize is that this isn’t an exercise of comparison. 

How can you learn from your heroes? How are their teachings and principles helping you grow, learn, and create? 

Everyone, no matter how successful they are, has heroes/mentors to look towards.

Recognize there is life after failure

You can spend months or even years on a project, only to watch it be criticized, or worse, ignored.

That’s what failure feels like when you share a part of you. But recovering from that failure is a practice, a mindset—in fact, the lessons that I internalized from that experience is helping me do better work. The thinking goes: 

No failure, no growth.

Read purposefully, and apply your knowledge

Reading prepares your mind, even helps you avoid foolish mistakes, but at the end of it all there must be the result of some action: a failure, maybe a success, or a lesson.

The purpose of education is to internalize knowledge but ultimately spark action and facilitate wiser decisions. Reading self-help books will, in that moment, make you feel inspired for a change. But are you following your principles when you have a troll, rude customer, or angry stranger in your face?

Challenge yourself to be brutally honest

“Why, exactly, am I feeling this way?” Get to the bottom of that. Investigate it. Dissect it. 

When you feel resistance, use that as a cue to go forward. The challenge, of course, is training yourself to think that way.

This isn’t about talent or some unconscious reflex. The practice of self-awareness—to think about your thinking—in how you think, feel, and behave is a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it becomes.

Reflect on what you spend the most time on

People who do excellent work, who master their craft, do so because of their ability to prioritize. They honor every hour of their day.

Although little breaks throughout our days are okay, we must be mindful of how we interact with our distractions (or is that addictions?).

A lot of spectating and flicking our finger on Guerrilla Glass is time that could be spent creating the stuff that people want to see.

Remind yourself: you weren’t meant to procrastinate

Etymologically, “procrastination” is derived from the Latin verb procrastinare — to put off until tomorrow. But it’s more than just voluntarily delaying.

“It’s self-harm,” said Dr. Piers Steel, a professor of motivational psychology at the University of Calgary

• Keep a To-Do List.

• Prioritize your To-Do List using

• Become a master of scheduling and project planning.

• Tackle the hardest tasks at your peak times

• Set yourself time-bound goals

• Use task- and time-management apps.

Put the phone away and be present

To be present as well as learning to be alone is a habit. Some people are really good at it because they make time to do it.

Take a few deep breathes, put your phone on vibrate so there’s no chance of interruption, and just reflect on the series of events that took place throughout your day.

Let your mind focus on the task at hand, what you’re trying to accomplish, and do it with diligence, patience, and care. Sooner, you’ll realize how much of an asset this is to your overall quality of life.

Remind yourself that time is our most precious resource

I realize that everyday truly is an opportunity to improve, to learn to honestly appreciate what we are capable of achieving and how we are very responsible for the quality of our lives.

This makes our self-respect, work ethic, generosity, self-awareness, attention, and growth evermore important. The last thing any of us wants to do is die with regret, hence why following principles of Stoicism puts your life into perspective. It humbles you and should also deeply motivate you.

Nothing, to my way of thinking, is a better proof of a well ordered mind than a man’s ability to stop just where he is and pass some time in his own company.

- Seneca

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The Harry Potter Sorting Hat – Choice Over Destiny

🎩The Sorting Hat places people based on qualities, but personal choice plays a role, reminding us we are not bound by labels or expectations.

Dementors – Mental Health & Facing Fear

💀Dementors represent depression, sucking the joy out of life. The Expecto Patronum spell teaches us to fight darkness with joyful memories—akin to real-life coping strategies for mental struggles.

Horcruxes vs. Hallows – The Cost of Power & Immortality

💥Voldemort seeks immortality by splitting his soul (Horcruxes), while Harry chooses connection and self-sacrifice (Deathly Hallows). It’s a lesson in what truly matters—fear-driven control or a meaningful life.

The Mirror of Erised – The Trap of Desire

🪞The mirror reflects deepest desires but not reality. A lesson in being present instead of fixating on what we lack.

The Patronus Charm – Power of Positivity & Resilience

✨The Patronus Charm is fueled by positive memories, revealing the true power of positivity and resilience. It teaches us that even in the darkest moments, our inner strength can shine through, helping us overcome hardships.

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12 Stoic Lessons Men Need to Learn Early

Dn't let success and status cloud your judgement - Stoicism can help you live a more fulfilling life. Learn 12 key lessons now to avoid regrets later.

1. Focus on What You Can Control

The Stoics were adamant about discerning between what lies within our control and what doesn’t. They understood that fixating on uncontrollable circumstances breeds anxiety and hampers our ability to act. Research affirms this principle, with a 2010 study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology finding that those who direct their energy towards manageable aspects of life experience have lower levels of anxiety and depression. By focusing your efforts where you can make a difference, you conserve mental bandwidth for taking effective action.

2. Embrace Discomfort for Growth

Growth often requires embracing discomfort and pushing outside of your comfort zone. Stoicism teaches that facing challenges head-on builds resilience and expands your boundaries. A 2018 study found that willingly exposing ourselves to controlled discomfort can lead to increased adaptability and toughness when facing future obstacles. Remember, progress is often found on the other side of discomfort.

3. Practice Gratitude Daily

Life can often feel like a race to achieve more, but it's important to remember the blessings we already have. The Stoics believed in regularly reflecting and appreciating these gifts, as gratitude has been linked to greater well-being and stronger relationships. Take time to appreciate what you have and keep yourself grounded.

4. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence

What is Emotional Intelligence?

• Emotions are strong feelings that can guide our actions if we let them

• Stoicism prioritizes controlling emotions instead of reacting to them

Why is it important?

• Emotional intelligence leads to success in various aspects of life such as work and relationships

• A study shows that higher emotional intelligence correlates with better job performance, stronger leadership, and greater overall well-being

Develop emotional awareness and regulation to become your very best self. Start cultivating emotional intelligence today.

5. Embrace Impermanence

Change is an inescapable law of life, and resisting this truth generates unnecessary suffering. Stoicism teaches the importance of accepting the transient nature of existence, from relationships to possessions to your own mortality. Research in the realm of mindfulness supports this wisdom. A 2013 study published in Emotion found that embracing impermanence promotes psychological flexibility and diminishes anxiety. Paradoxically, accepting that nothing lasts forever allows you to appreciate the present more deeply.

6. Develop a Growth Mindset

Challenges can feel like either roadblocks or stepping stones, depending on your perspective. Stoicism encourages reframing obstacles as opportunities to learn, improve, and become a better version of yourself. Carol Dweck’s pioneering research on mindset, showcased in a 2007 Psychological Science article, reveals that a growth mentality fuels resilience, achievement, and perseverance in the face of setbacks. Embracing the belief that you can continually learn and evolve expands your potential.

7. Practice Self-Reflection

In a world full of distractions, taking time to think deeply about yourself is crucial.

According to Stoics, self-reflection is essential for a fulfilling life. And modern research agrees: regularly examining yourself boosts self-awareness, leading to better decision-making and improved mental well-being. So make it a habit to set aside quiet moments to honestly evaluate your thoughts, actions, and goals – it will help you live more intentionally

8. Cultivate Virtuous Habits

Character isn’t something you’re born with, it's shaped by your choices and actions. Stoics believed in the power of habits to create a fulfilling life and practicing virtues like courage, temperance and wisdom. Modern psychology agrees that being kind and honest leads to more happiness and well-being. With every small decision, you shape yourself into the person you want to be. Focus on making the next right choice, and your habits will shape an admirable character.

9. Embrace Simplicity

In a culture that glorifies excess, Stoicism offers a refreshing alternative: the joy of enough. The Stoics advocated for a life unencumbered by compulsive consumption, instead finding fulfillment in life’s simple pleasures. Research supports the wisdom of this approach. A 2015 Journal of Consumer Research study found that materialism inversely correlates with life satisfaction while embracing simplicity promotes well-being. Recognize that enduring happiness stems from meaning, not things. Declutter your environment and your mind to make space for what truly matters.

10. Accept What Cannot Be Changed

Life can bring unexpected challenges that we can't control, from large world events to personal hardships. Instead of fighting against them, the Stoics believed in accepting them. It's not giving up, but a way to find peace amidst chaos. Psychologists say that acceptance plays a big role in reducing anxiety and improving our lives, as seen in a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology. By accepting the unchangeable, we free up energy to focus on what we can change.

11. Practice Empathy and Compassion

In an increasingly polarized world, empathy and compassion are revolutionary acts. Stoicism encourages seeking to understand others’ perspectives and responding with kindness, even when it’s challenging to do so. The benefits of this approach transcend the recipient. A 2013 study in Psychological Science discovered that practicing empathy and compassion increases the giver’s happiness and life satisfaction. Extending compassion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s also a path to personal fulfillment and richer human connection.

12. Live by Nature

The Stoics believed in aligning personal behavior with natural law, accepting that we are part of an interconnected universe. This concept finds support in the field of environmental psychology. A 2017 Journal of Environmental Psychology study revealed that immersing oneself in nature and adopting a harmonious relationship with nature’s rhythms yields significant improvements in mental health and cognitive performance. Embracing our place in the giant web of life fosters a sense of belonging and re-attachment to the world around us.

Key Takeaways: Stoicism, Personal Growth, and Fulfillment

- Stoicism offers valuable lessons for men seeking personal growth and fulfillment.

- Focusing on what you can control reduces anxiety and enables effective action.

- Embracing discomfort is essential for growth and developing resilience.

- Practicing gratitude daily enhances well-being, mental health, and relationships.

- Cultivating emotional intelligence improves job performance, leadership, and overall well-being.

- Accepting impermanence promotes psychological flexibility and reduces anxiety.

- Developing a growth mindset fuels resilience, achievement, and perseverance.

- Engaging in regular self-reflection sharpens self-awareness and decision-making skills.

- Cultivating virtuous habits, such as kindness and honesty, leads to greater life satisfaction.

- Embracing simplicity and letting go of material possessions can bring clarity and inner peace.

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What does it mean in terms of long-term happiness ?

Falling in love is a great start, but it’s just the beginning. The excitement and energy come from a rush of brain chemicals, pushing us to connect. But this feeling doesn’t last forever. Real love is what comes after the effort, understanding, and deep connection that grow over time. If we keep chasing the high of new love, we risk missing out on something lasting. Love isn’t just the cocktail; it’s the full meal, and that takes time to build.

What does it mean when the feeling goes away?

When the initial bliss fades, differences emerge, and doubts may follow. What once felt perfect now seems uncertain. But this isn’t a sign that love is gone—it’s the next step. This is where real love begins, moving beyond the excitement of new romance to the deeper work of understanding, accepting, and growing together.

Building Love

Love isn’t just something we find—it’s something we learn and practice. It’s not always easy. Sometimes it feels like patience when plans change or generosity when things don’t go our way. Loving relationships come with hard conversations and tough emotions like hurt, anger, and fear. These moments can push us apart, but learning to love means pausing before reacting and turning challenges into growth.

Mindfulness And Love

Mindfulness helps us pause before reacting, creating space between our emotions and our responses. Instead of acting out of fear or anger, we choose to protect our connection. Love in these moments is a mix of anxiety, determination, and hope the struggle between closing off and staying open.

Love Feels Like Compassion

In difficult moments, we can stay open to connection by finding the feeling of compassion for ourselves and our partners. Compassion doesn’t mean that everything is okay or that you ignore the difficulties. Compassion means that you recognize that love inevitably includes these moments of tension and hurt. You feel loving acceptance of your own and your partner’s limitations

Love Feels Like Discipline and Commitment

Love requires discipline and commitment. It’s not just about feeling love, but consistently choosing to act with compassion, even when you feel like reacting negatively. Over time, this effort helps you stay grounded in tough emotional moments. Instead of being tossed by feelings, you learn to steady yourself and move forward, just like learning to sail through a storm.

The Joy of Learning to Love

So, does loving and learning to love always feel hard? Not at all. Sometimes it feels like a great relief when you have successfully navigated a difficult set of emotional rapids without capsizing the boat. It can feel triumphant, deeply satisfying, comforting, and secure. It can feel like being on solid ground. It feels like the joy of learning. It feels like the security and trust of finding yourself with a teammate for this adventure of learning to love.

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Setting Boundaries for Emotional Safety

Learning to say no, recognizing toxic relationships, and prioritizing your well-being are essential steps toward recovery.

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People are just as wonderful as sunsets if you let them be. When I look at a sunset l don't find myself saying, 'Soften the orange a bit on the right-hand corner.' I don't try to control a sunset. I watch with awe as it unfolds.

- DR. CARL ROGERS

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"Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions."

- DALAI LAMA

The Pursuit of Happiness is Universal

Happiness is the ultimate goal for every human being.

It is not dependent on material wealth, but on mental peace and emotional well-being.

Cultivating inner contentment is key to long-lasting happiness.

The Role of Compassion

Compassion is foundational to human happiness.

When we care for others, we nurture a sense of community and empathy.

Acts of kindness, both big and small, lead to personal joy.

Mental Discipline

Our thoughts and emotions are powerful; cultivating a positive mindset is essential.

Through mindfulness and meditation, we can train our minds to reduce negativity.

Self-awareness helps in recognizing harmful patterns and replacing them with constructive ones.

Understanding Suffering

Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but it can be transformed into wisdom.

The key is not avoiding pain but learning how to handle it with resilience.

By understanding suffering, we can develop a deeper appreciation for happiness.

The Power of Perspective

Happiness depends on how we perceive the world and our experiences.

Cultivating a balanced and realistic view leads to emotional stability.

Small changes in perspective can shift how we experience joy. One simple way to elevate your mood is by starting your day with positive, uplifting visuals.

The Importance of Relationships

Healthy relationships are critical to our well-being.

Love, respect, and understanding foster strong bonds with others.

A sense of belonging and connection brings greater happiness.

Self-Compassion and Self-Acceptance

We must learn to treat ourselves with kindness and understanding.

Self-criticism can hinder happiness, while self-compassion allows us to grow without judgment.

Embracing our imperfections leads to greater emotional freedom.

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We must give a lot of thought to the future because that is where we are going to spend the rest of our lives.

- JOHN MAYNARD KEYNES

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𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔞𝔠𝔞𝔡𝔢𝔪𝔦𝔠’𝔰 𝔠𝔬𝔷𝔶 𝔥𝔬𝔪𝔢

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Ryan Caraveo - Pumpkin Pie (OFFICIAL VIDEO)