May
This post enlists all of the relevant journal entries, thoughts, triumphs and inquires that piqued my attention last month. I hope you enjoy and get some value from it!
“Benefits of having a personal website”
● Creative outlet
● Develop your own ideas
● Puts your unique perspectives to use
● Improves writing and communication
● It helps in your professional life (especially in digital marketing)
● People may reach out to you – a great opportunity for serendipity
● Puts ideas to use that may benefit someone, somewhere at the right time
This is an idea I had when I was at a crossroads. I didn’t initially see the value in writing online, or posting content. I’m glad I did, because after watching a video by Ali Abdaal the decision was made!
“Finding what drives you”
That little voice that appeared when I was a kid, was a fascination with building things and creating.
I remember a few occasions where I was filled with inspiration to build a car, or a house. Of course I never had the material or the skills to materialise building a house at 10 years old lol, I just loved the idea, the fantasy. I loved making stuff and being creative.
Achieved a Goal: Got my first entry level job!
This is a big one for me, and one which took a lot of effort. I’m very proud, and happy with my progress.
Having a job that pays the bills, enables me to start thinking about more than just survival, which I have been forced to do over the last few months working an unpaid internship.
Mid-cingulate Cortex – the tenacious brain
From a neuroscience podcast, I learned about the anterior mid-cingulate cortex, interestingly I remember experiencing this “leaning in” phenomenon whereby a challenge becomes rewarding as you accept and embrace it. I think of times that I confronted a new job, or challenge in life where I had the option to remain in fear, or confront something head on – confrontation always led to greater success and reward. So I have become acutely aware of this new power, and will continue to research it further.
No duality – integrating psychological desire and detachment
Both the pursuing that leads to pleasure, and the mindfulness practice of detachment be combined to produce a beautiful life.
Don’t be overly attached to things, but don’t completely detached – perfectionism equals poverty.
Recognise that positive emotion is elicited by goal based motivation,
Be mindful that meditation brings calm and contentment in amongst that longing. No need for extremes one way or the other.
Become a master of both.
Be loosely attached to success,
meditate regularly and practice gratitude.
Keys of productivity
Avoid death by 1000 cuts – as in don’t waste energy on time consuming, pointless menial work that could be avoided.
● Prepare food never have to think about what to eat, streamline daily routine, clothes placed out night before, plan tomorrow today.
● Make sure you get your most important work done when you have the most energy – typically in the morning.
● Pick 3 high priority tasks aligned with your goals per day.