The action that moves the needle (really makes you productive and moves you forward in life) is seldom the thing you enjoy doing.
Yet, by undertaking it, you can ensure deeper fulfillment and joy later.
Tag: action
- Theme: Growth
The Lion’s Den
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1–2 minutesGoing into the lion’s den is entering a space of performance seeded with risk: a situation where you cannot be who you are.
It is a space where victory is survival. Yet the lion’s den can function as a crucible or oracle of insight: this is the world and us within it. - Theme: Growth
Don’t-ignore-me Tantrum
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1–2 minutesSometimes we push back against things simply to push, to flex and feel real. Our internal wiring (ego) acts out, asserting itself in the world: recognize I am a force to be deferred to and included.
Having a voice is good, sharing unique insights that help is good. Reminding people you exist by throwing a wrench into their life isn’t. - Theme: Self
Health is Politics
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1–2 minutesThe role of governments is to provide some level of safety and security to the citizens in trade for taxes and the collective good.
When we are too sick to think, too sick to function, our world closes to survival. To have a voice, to hold the government to the social contract, we must remain healthy.
Timothy Snyder’s "Our Malady" is a good text to read on this topic.
- Theme: Growth
Workplace tactic
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1–2 minutesNo problem gets solved until the last minute. Up to the deadline people freely offer feedback and concerns, criticisms. But in the last hour they abdicate responsibility and criticality, tending to become suddenly otherwise occupied, especially if pushed to expound or do actual work.
Knowing this, you can use it to your advantage to strengthen social alliances and become the hero rather than being repeatedly upset at the folly of it all. - Theme: Self
Confrontation martial arts
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1–2 minutesConfrontation is alright, when done with respect and love, but it still fuels aggression rather than openness.
Confrontation takes twice as long, with three times the energy, to wear down somebody down to the point they will hear you. Alternatively, you could land one well placed, well timed, insightful question and unravel the illusion of separation and difference, of ego and identity.
Be a master martial artist, not a flailing slap fight.