To thrive amid unprecedented amounts of novelty, we must shift from being mere seekers of the new to being connoisseurs of it.
~ Winifred Gallagher
slip:4a358.
Author: Craig Constantine
Due consideration
Like an ape, you imitate whatever you see, and one thing after another is sure to please you, but no longer to please you as soon as it becomes familiar. For you have never entered upon anything with due consideration, nor after examining the whole matter carefully and systematically, but always approach things in a random and poorly motivated manner.
~ Epictetus
slip:4a563.
Efficacy
When you think that one of your ideas is a billion dollar one, remember the S-logo. Your idea is probably not as unique as you think it is. After a game-chasing [sic] insight strikes you, focus on how well you can execute upon that idea instead.
~ Chris Bailey from, Your ideas aren’t that unique – Chris Bailey
slip:4uaiyo2.
I agree and I will go farther: An idea alone is worthless. It becomes increasingly valuable only if one thinks through the second-order, (and third and so on,) effects. Only when one thinks about how the idea connects to everything else one knows. Only when the idea has been connected to, and tested against, reality.
A good idea has some real, objective—others see the effect too and their observations agree—effect in the world. That part is trivially easy; “I think moving this chair is a good idea!” and then move the chair. But to be a good idea, it must also create value which can be traded, (in the most general sense,) with others. Moving the chair out of someone’s way is a good idea. Moving it to make them trip is not.
I can easily become trapped in my own thoughts. So many ideas! So many possibilities! But instead of ruminating in a whirlwind of worthless ideas, if I pick one, think it through, and then stand up to go make it happen— Magic. Efficacy for the win.
É•
But if you ask them
You know, Phaedrus, that is the strange thing about writing, which makes it truly correspond to painting. The painter’s products stand before us as though they were alive. But if you question them, they maintain a majestic silence. It is the same with written words. They seem to talk to you as though they were intelligent, but if you ask them anything about what they say from a desire to be instructed they go on telling just the same thing forever.
~ Socrates
slip:4a538.
When do you stop?
I’m away at a parkour event this weekend, lots of walking and playing and jumping. One session was a discussion of fear, and of consequences. And one particular question for discussion was, “When do you stop?” People raised lots of ideas—good ideas, wise ideas… lots of things I was in agreement about.
But I was also thinking, “Wait. Why do I have to decide that?”
I know I’ve certainly faced decisions about stopping. Work, play, relationships, sports, parkour practices (ask me about the time I climbed across a train station outside of Paris,) … yes, deciding if, when and why to stop is an obvious question.
If I think about two paths—perhaps diverging in the woods, if you like that imagery—an hour’s hike along the path of one choice, I might decide I’m going the wrong way. There’s one of those when-to-stop decisions. But the mistake was an hour before, where the paths diverged.
This business venture: what if I had truly been committed, and had planned clearly the way we’d know when to stop? The question is gone. This relationship: could it be planned, or could two people be so honest, that the question doesn’t appear? This parkour jump, at the end of an exhausting day of training: why am I standing here, right now? If I’d planned better, could I have gotten all the same benefit, but a few minutes before right-now, I’d have moved to something else?
Might it be possible to still have challenge, commitment, growth, love, spontaneity, and humor… without ever having to decide, “should I stop this now?”
É•
Serenity, Freedom
When you have considered all these things with care, then, if you think fit, approach philosophy, and be willing to give up all of this in exchange for serenity, freedom and an undisturbed mind. Otherwise, do not come near; do not, like children, be at one time a philosopher, later a tax-collector, then a rhetorititian, and then one of Caesar’s procurators. These things are not compatible. You must be one man, either good or bad. You must cultivate either your own ruling faculty or externals, and apply yourself either to things within or those outside; that is, you must assume either the attitude of a philosopher or that of a layman.
~ Epictetus
slip:4a554.
Last vestiges
It can be hard to say no. It means refusing someone, and often it means denying yourself instant gratification. The rewards of doing this are uncertain and less tangible. I call decisions like this “first-order negative, second-order positive.” Most people don’t take the time to think through the second-order effects of their choices. If they did, they’d realize that freedom comes from the ability to say no.
~ Shane Parrish from, Break the Chain: Stop Being a Slave
slip:4ufobe1.
I think the “slavery” [to things, to money, to “more”] metaphor is inappropriate, but philosophers from Epictetus and earlier have been using it, so it’s entrenched. “Freedom” is mentioned in the pull-quote, and the metaphor also appears in the article. None the less, it connects a few different ideas together and gives good guidance if you’re new to the ideas. (Or if you could use a wee refresher.)
For me, the last vestiges of the yearning—as Wu Hsin put it—is the yearning for experiences. I am quite often restless. I often joke: “I do not idle well.” In my series on parkour-travel I even mentioned the idea of, when spare time exists, move towards the next scheduled-thing, and kill time there. I believe this yearning springs from my bias to action. As a counter-practice, I like to pause—often seemingly randomly—to remind myself: If this isn’t nice, I don’t know what is.
That phrase can get tossed around lightly, but there’s deep wisdom in it. Once I understand that this is in fact nice, right now, then when I realize that I wasn’t—just then, in the moment—feeling how nice it is… then the second part of the phrase has power: I don’t know what is. Put another way:
If I know what is nice, then this is.
É•
Involve me
Tell me and I’ll forget;
~ Chinese proverb
Show me and I may remember;
Involve me and I’ll understand.
slip:4a363.
The end is nigh
There is only the thinnest veneer separating our society from chaos. Some cell towers have enough fuel for 8 hours of service if the power goes out. Many do not. And that crazy driver? …one pothole separates us all from a cascade crash. It rained 6 inches. The next day I passed 100 broken down, abandoned, cars along the highways. At one point I slowed to a crawl, on an interstate, and slowly drove around three cars, abandoned in the highway… no cops, no people, no tow trucks, just cars lying randomly in what must have been flooded. I passed miles and miles of traffic jams… the kind where people stuck in traffic run out of gas and the jams get complicated to clear. New York City simply closed… all non-emergency travel forbidden. The next day, no trains were running into the city.
Meanwhile, the drivers were their usual rude and rushing selves.
All the world is but a stage…
É•
Danger, disquiet, anxiety attend
To trace something unknown back to something known is alleviating, soothing, gratifying and gives moreover a feeling of power. Danger, disquiet, anxiety attend the unknown—the first instinct is to eliminate these distressing states. First principle: Any explanation is better than none […] the cause-creating drive is thus conditioned and excited by the feeling of fear.
~ Friederich Nietzsche
slip:4a362.
On becoming somebody
No sign of any good habit, no attention or regard to yourselves. You do not watch yourself closely and ask, “How do I deal with the impressions that befall me? In accordance with nature or contrary to nature? As I ought, or as I ought not to? Do I say to the things that lie outside the sphere of choice that they are nothing to me?” If you are not yet in this state, fly from your former habits, fly from all laymen, if you ever want to make a start on becoming somebody.
~ Epictetus
slip:4a548.
Getting control of mornings
Staring this month, I’m making another large change to how I’m structuring my mornings. For as long as I can remember I’ve woken up about 5:30. There’s variability, but it’s a rare morning if I’m not actually awake, vertical and puttering towards my desk by 6:00. Unfortunately, for what might be two years now, what I’ve been doing upon reaching my desk has been an every-morning battle between my intention, and what I had actually set myself up for.
My intention was: Do self-focusing, restorative things. Meditate, some movement [yoga, mobility, etc.], maybe a quiet podcast, then do my reflection reading, and write in my journal. Then “surface, ” which means waking up a computer and checking in on a variety of places—multiple email programs, web sites, etc., to get a pulse for what today looks like. Checking the calendar to verify appointments, calls, etc.. And then, at 6:30 exactly, Tracy and I would have a quick morning meeting to compare our days. We’d discuss the day’s activities, meals, chores, our respective meetings, etc.. Each morning I make up a very crude, quick listing of things for the day, in a very small notebook that I carry around. But what actually happened was that, because I use a program to track everything, and I need to look some stuff up to fill out my little notebook to start my day, I’d end up starting by just peeking into one or two things… and bam! It’s 6:30 meeting time. Dammit.
I’ve come to the conclusion that I must begin the morning without any devices. (Pretty sure that’s safe to do without checking with my doctor, since it was fine for the first 25 years of my life, right?)
Have our evening meeting, figure out the basic layout of tomorrow, and jot my notes in my little notebook. In the morning, get up, gather my coffee, and start my day with the little notebook. No phone for podcasts, nor music… just me and my notebook. We shall see.
É•
Vulnerability with Rien MacDonald
How does creating a podcast foster meaningful connections and personal growth for both the host and the guests?
A shared journey through vulnerability reveals how podcasting fosters authentic human interaction.
It’s so important to share, and I wouldn’t assert that it’s what you have to do in order to receive— but it almost is, right? You have to give in order to receive.
~ Rien MacDonald (7:14)
The conversation revolves around the transformative power of podcasting as a medium for deepening communication and fostering authentic connections. Rien reflects on how podcasting has sharpened his listening skills and provided a platform to explore and share stories. A poignant example is his mother’s revelation of a deeply personal family secret during an interview, highlighting how vulnerability can unlock moments of unexpected emotional resonance.
Another significant topic is the balance of power in podcasting. While the host controls the technical aspects, genuine collaboration and openness foster trust and enable guests to express themselves fully. Rien also discusses their journey from meticulous editing to embracing the rawness of conversations, emphasizing the importance of shared human experiences.
Takeaways
Creating invitations through questions — Open-ended questions encourage guests to share meaningful insights.
The host’s role in vulnerability — Being authentic and sharing personal stories can inspire guests to do the same.
Magic of storytelling — A microphone often becomes a catalyst for untold stories to surface.
Transformative listening — Actively listening improves not just communication but the ability to connect with others.
Evolution of podcasting skills — Transitioning from over-editing to embracing authenticity refines the podcasting process.
Balancing power dynamics — The host’s vulnerability and kindness can counterbalance their inherent authority in a podcast setting.
Podcasting as collaboration — Episodes become meaningful through shared effort and mutual storytelling.
Personal growth through podcasting — The medium helps hosts and guests reflect on their own lives and experiences.
Resources
The Hope Initiative podcast — Rien’s podcast, where they explore personal stories and insights.
Seth Godin’s Blog — The blog of a writer and entrepreneur referenced for inspiration and connection.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
É•
Storycraft with Brigitte Cutshall
What role does storytelling play in learning, personal growth, and connecting with others through different mediums?
The intersection of storytelling and resilience uncovers transformative approaches to learning and sharing.
I have an older brother […] I was always trying to get his attention so I would write stories. He was into sports, so I would write a story about some football game which— I didn’t give a crap about football, but I would write a story for him about how the game went and I would tape it to his door.
~ Brigitte Cutshall (2:16)
The discussion centers around storytelling and its diverse applications in personal and professional growth. It explores how stories, whether in books, podcasts, or films, enable individuals to connect, empathize, and learn from each other’s experiences. Brigitte reflects on her journey of adapting storytelling methods across mediums, sharing how they’ve embraced podcasting despite initial reservations about recording their voice. She highlights the differences between written and spoken storytelling and how both formats have unique challenges and opportunities.
The conversation also goes into the role of storytelling in marketing and branding, emphasizing its power to build trust and convey authentic messages. Brigitte shares insights from creating a short film during the pandemic, which exemplifies how collaboration and creativity can overcome constraints. The underlying theme is resilience and positivity, showcasing how storytelling helps navigate challenges and connect meaningfully with others.
Takeaways
Storytelling as a learning tool — Sharing stories fosters connection and highlights universal experiences.
Adaptation in storytelling — Exploring different mediums such as books, podcasts, and films highlights unique opportunities and challenges.
Role of storytelling in marketing — Storytelling is a powerful tool for building trust and establishing a personal or business brand.
Positivity and resilience — Emphasizing optimism in storytelling encourages growth and helps overcome adversity.
Collaboration and creativity — Collaborative storytelling projects reveal the importance of diverse perspectives and teamwork.
Resources
[Expecting the Good](Expecting the Good: A Personal Account of Triumph Over Adversity) — Brigitte’s book about positivity and resilience.
Screenwriting Guild of Atlanta — An organization mentioned in relation to the speaker’s screenwriting project.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
É•
Magic with Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett
How can podcasting create meaningful connections and make learning engaging and accessible?
Teaching Mandarin becomes a magical journey of exploration and discovery through storytelling.
The listeners can hear your mood and how you present it, just from your voice. So if you talk with a smile, I think they can really feel that.
~ Amanda Hsiung-Blogett (12:51)
The conversation explores the transformative potential of podcasting as a tool for teaching, storytelling, and connecting with diverse audiences. Amanda reflects on her experience of blending bilingual education with creativity, emphasizing that podcasting allows her to reach listeners in unexpected and magical ways. She shares anecdotes about feedback from listeners, like students and families, who find joy in the accessible format of her lessons. A recurring theme is the element of surprise in what resonates with audiences, from discussing everyday topics like ice cream to creating a book that evolved organically from her podcast work.
The dialogue also touches on Amanda’s journey in podcasting, the challenges of maintaining engagement without immediate feedback, and the importance of conveying emotion and intent through voice. She discusses her goal of making Mandarin language learning approachable and fun, aiming to challenge preconceived notions about its difficulty. Practical tips for podcasters include presenting with a positive tone and leveraging storytelling to create immersive experiences for listeners.
Takeaways
Magic of podcasting — Creating unseen connections with listeners through voice and storytelling.
Engaging teaching techniques — Combining bilingual formats and relatable topics to simplify complex subjects.
Listener feedback — Using audience insights to refine delivery and adapt content.
Voice as a tool — Conveying mood and intent to captivate and engage listeners.
Breaking stereotypes — Challenging the perception of Mandarin as a difficult language through fun and simple approaches.
Evolution of ideas — How a podcast can lead to unexpected projects, like writing books or developing new formats.
Impact of preparation — Reducing stress for podcast guests through clear communication and easy workflows.
Resources
Playful Chinese Podcast — Amanda’s podcast teaching Mandarin through stories and interactive lessons.
Akimbo Workshops — A community-based learning platform mentioned for its influence on the guest’s podcasting journey.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
É•
Obsession with Andrew Obenreder
How does an obsession with movement shape personal practices and creative expression?
Exploring movement extends beyond physicality into music, art, and mindfulness.
I try to listen to whatever my heart tells me to be doing.
~ Andrew Obenreder (5:37)
The conversation explores Andrew’s lifelong obsession with movement and its far-reaching impact on personal and creative practices. Movement, in this context, is not just about physicality but also integrates art forms such as music, painting, and tattooing. Andrew describes movement as an intrinsic part of their life, dating back to childhood, where their passion extended even to the mechanical elegance of trains. He also reflects on how balance is a recurring theme—balancing creative urges, physical demands, and mental well-being.
Stress and mindfulness emerge as critical themes. Andrew challenges traditional notions of stress, suggesting it can be constructive in pushing boundaries. He also emphasize the importance of being present and prioritizing genuine desires over societal or internal pressures to perform. This perspective encourages letting go of “should” and replacing it with intentional actions aligned with personal motivations.
Takeaways
Balancing movement and creativity — Movement intertwines with various creative pursuits like art, music, and tattooing, requiring a balance between physical and mental expressions.
The role of stress — Stress can be both destructive and constructive, depending on how it is perceived and managed.
Mindfulness in practice — Remaining present and listening to immediate desires shapes both personal growth and movement practices.
The concept of “should” — Avoiding unnecessary obligations creates freedom and reduces stress.
Universal struggles — Everyone experiences moments of stagnation, regardless of expertise or experience.
Movement as identity — Movement is deeply personal and rooted in early life experiences.
Resources
MĂśV — Andrew’s periodical mixing written, audio and visual mediums.
David Allen’s “Getting Things Done” — A productivity system mentioned for its advice on balancing commitments.
(Written with help from Chat-GPT.)
É•
Training
For who is the man under training? The man who practices not exercising his desire, and directing this aversion only to things that lie within the sphere of choice, and who practices the hardest in the things most difficult to achieve. So different people will have to practice harder in different respects.
~ Epictetus
slip:4a569.
Tops
Those of us who visit wild places the way others visit churches and concert halls visit because we return transfigured, recomposed, exalted and humbled at the same time, enlarged and dissolved in something larger at the same time. We visit because there we undergo some essential self-composition in the poetry of existence, though its essence rarely lends itself to words.
~ Maria Popova from, Thoreau on Nature and Human Nature, the Tonic of Wildness, and the Value of the Unexplored – The Marginalian
slip:4ubato1.
I’d never thought of it that way. But, maybe it is just that. There’s a definite feeling of dissolution I occasionally experience out climbing. I have been far off the trail, and perhaps the feeling is more common farther off the trail. But I’ve also experienced it standing in a parking lot, say, next to Niagara Falls. It’s a feeling of deep stillness. A feeling that all is right as rain. All of our recorded history is less than a blink in geological time scale… so there’s certainly plenty of time, at my scale, to pause right here—wherever that is, be it a mountain or desk top.
É•
Death does not frighten me
When evening has come, I return to my house and go into my study. At the door I take off my clothes of the day, covered with mud and mire, and I put on my regal and courtly garments; and decently reclothed, I enter the ancient courts of ancient men, where, received by them lovingly, I feed on the food that alone is mine and that I was born for. There I am not ashamed to speak with them and to ask them the reasons for their actions; and they in their humanity reply to me. And for the space of four hours I feel no boredom, I forget every pain, I do not fear poverty, death does not frighten me. I deliver myself entirely to them.
~ Niccolò Machiavelli
slip:4a366.
Easy!
Informed Simplicity is an enlightened view of reality. It is founded on ability to discern or create clarifying patterns with complex mixtures. Pattern recognition is a crucial skill for an architect, who must create a highly ordered building amid many competing and frequently nebulous design considerations.
~ Matthew Frederick from, Architect Matthew Frederick on the Three Levels of Knowing
slip:4ufote4.
As you’ve no doubt discovered, getting to the level of informed simpicity is difficult. It requires deep understanding of a field, and that requires significant time investment. In my opinion, a hallmarks of subject mastery is demonstrating a level of understanding that reaches informed simplicity.
If I think something is simple, either I’m a beginner or the subject isn’t complex enough to be a mastery practice. If I think something is complex, then I know I’m a beginner. And if when asked about the subject, I find myself looking up a little with my eyes, while making that lopsided, slight smile… suddenly lost in thought? Then I know things are getting easy.
É•