Tuesday, July 15, 2025

The only problem is the way people think

You may scratch your head, nod, or argue with your screen over this quote from my first book. Whew. Take a breath. That's quite a bold assertion, isn't it? It suggests that all the drama, all the misunderstandings, all the clashes we experience in life aren’t primarily about external events, or a lack of resources, or even just 'bad people.' Instead, it puts the spotlight squarely on our internal operating system—how our minds work, how we process information, how we form opinions, and ultimately, how we decide what's "right" or "wrong." If this quote is accurate, we should consider introspection before blaming others. When the quote says "thinking itself is a problem," it's not suggesting that intelligence is bad or that having thoughts is inherently flawed. This is far from the case. It shows our thinking's nature: our biases, the filters we use to see the world, our assumptions, and the subjective lens through which we each experience reality. We often see our thoughts as objective truth, as plain common sense. But what if that "common sense" is anything but common, completely unique to our own mental landscape? Think about it. We’re all walking around with our personal hard drives, loaded with different software, different operating systems, and vastly different data accumulated over a lifetime. Your brain isn't just about processing facts; it's about interpreting them, assigning meaning, filtering out certain details, and highlighting others, all based on a complex algorithm of past experiences, emotions, values, and beliefs. The "problem" emerges when these unique internal worlds clash.  Let’s start with an arena where differing thoughts are on full, often painful, display: the world of politics. Politicians come from a variety of backgrounds, correct? Take economic policy, for instance. One might genuinely believe that slashing taxes for corporations and the wealthy will stimulate the economy, leading to job creation and prosperity for all. They might have studies, historical precedents, and a whole philosophy built around this idea. Their thinking is rooted in a belief that incentives for the rich trickle down. Conversely, another politician may sincerely hold the belief that investing in social programs and public infrastructure and establishing a robust safety net for the less fortunate is the genuine route to achieving widespread prosperity. They might argue that putting money directly into the hands of the working class boosts demand and that a healthy, educated populace is the bedrock of a strong economy. Their perspective stems from the conviction that growth originates from the grassroots, not the top-down approach. Both arguably want a better country for their constituents. Both are probably intelligent, well-meaning individuals (at least, we hope!). What leads to the persistent gridlock, intense disagreements, and challenges in reaching common ground? It’s not necessarily that one is evil and the other good. This often occurs because their fundamental thinking, which includes core assumptions about human nature, economics, fairness, and the role of government, is diametrically opposed. They view the same societal problems from completely different perspectives, convinced that theirs is the only logical one. Their "thinking itself" becomes the problem, leading to an impasse where progress stalls. Now, let's apply the quote to our personal lives, where it truly resonates. Think about a disagreement you've had with a friend, someone you genuinely like and respect. It could be something as mundane as planning a vacation or as significant as a disagreement over a life choice. Imagine you're planning a weekend trip with a friend. You, in your infinite wisdom, believe the best way to travel is to book everything well in advance, have a detailed itinerary, and stick to it. You enjoy the security and predictability this brings. You think, "Why would anyone want to just wing it? It's a risky approach! Your friend, however, lives for spontaneity. Their ideal trip entails choosing a direction, exploring the journey, and making spontaneous decisions. They think, "Planning everything takes all the fun out of it! Where's the adventure?" Neither of you is wrong. Both ways of thinking about travel are perfectly valid. However, because your individual perspectives on what constitutes a good trip differ so greatly, you may become frustrated with each other and might even accuse one another of being "rigid" or "irresponsible." Your friend might feel constrained by your planning, while you might feel anxious about their lack of foresight. The external event (the trip) isn’t the problem; it’s the clash of your internal processing mechanisms—your unique "thought patterns"—that creates the tension.

Why We Don't See Eye-to-Eye

This incident brings us to a crucial point: "One sees through his own eyes and the others with their eyes." We often forget this simple truth. We perceive the world not as it is, but as we are. It's like everyone is wearing a different pair of bespoke sunglasses, each tinted with unique colors, filters, and prescriptions based on their life journey. Consider a simple event: two colleagues witness a heated exchange between their boss and another team member. Person A, who grew up in a strict household where any display of anger was considered unacceptable, might interpret the boss's tone as aggressive and unprofessional, concluding the boss is a bully. Person B, who grew up in a more boisterous environment where lively debates were common, might see the same exchange as merely passionate and direct, concluding the boss is just a strong leader who gets things done. The "event" is the same, but their internal interpretations, their "thinkings," lead to vastly different conclusions and feelings about the situation. This issue isn't about malicious intent; it's about the inherent subjectivity of human perception. We filter information through our existing beliefs, memories, emotions, and even our current mood. Our brains are constantly creating a coherent narrative, and sometimes, to maintain that coherence, they'll even bend reality a little to fit our preferred storyline. During this process, cognitive biases such as confirmation bias, which involves seeking out information that validates our pre-existing beliefs, become active, thereby reinforcing our own unique perspective and making it more challenging to perceive the world from another's perspective. So, if our thinking is the problem, where does this "thinking" come from? Are the reasons for these different views rooted solely in upbringing? Yes, that's a big part of it, but it's also more complicated than just your childhood. Upbringing: Your upbringing is foundational. The values instilled by your parents, the rules of your household, the way emotions were expressed (or suppressed), the type of education you received, and even the stories you were told—all of these shape your initial mental frameworks. If your upbringing taught you that asking for help is a sign of weakness, your thinking would likely lean toward self-reliance. Your perspective will put the welfare of the group first if you were taught that community support is essential. Culture and Society: Beyond your immediate family, the broader cultural context you grew up in profoundly influences your worldview. National identity, regional customs, religious beliefs, and societal norms around gender roles, success, and failure—these are deeply ingrained and shape how you interpret the world, often subconsciously. What's considered polite in one culture might be rude in another; what's considered an admirable trait here might be a flaw elsewhere. Personal Experiences: Life isn't just about what you're taught; it's about what you live through. Traumatic events, significant achievements, personal relationships (both good and bad), moments of profound insight, travel, and career paths—every single experience adds another layer to your internal operating system. Someone who experienced poverty might have a completely different perspective on money and social services than someone who has always been financially secure. Someone who was betrayed might be more guarded than someone who has always found people trustworthy. Information Diet: In the digital age, what we consume online and through media plays a massive role. The news sources we follow, the social media bubbles we inhabit, and the voices we choose to listen to—all of these feed our "thinking" and can reinforce existing biases, creating echo chambers that make it even harder to understand alternative viewpoints. Innate Temperament and Genetics: Even our basic temperament (e.g., introversion/extroversion, risk aversion, emotional sensitivity) might have a genetic component, influencing how we perceive and react to the world, further contributing to our unique "thinking." It's a complex fabric, intricately woven with numerous threads. Each element contributes to the unique way our brains build their models of reality, making it incredibly difficult to simply "agree to disagree" when our foundational thinking about a topic is so fundamentally divergent. While the quote, "The only problem is the way people think," is wonderfully provocative, it's worth noting that diverse thinking isn't only a problem. In fact, it's also the wellspring of innovation, creativity, and progress. Imagine a world where everyone thought exactly alike—it would be stagnant, boring, and utterly devoid of new ideas. The clash of different perspectives can spark breakthroughs, challenge stale assumptions, and lead to more robust solutions. The "problem," then, isn't the existence of different ways of thinking but rather our inability to navigate those differences constructively. It's when our unique thinking becomes rigid, when we refuse to acknowledge the validity of other perspectives, and when we cease to be curious about why someone thinks differently that "thinking itself" becomes a genuine roadblock to understanding and harmony. So, what’s the takeaway? If our thinking is indeed the root of many problems, the solution lies not in trying to make everyone think alike (an impossible and undesirable goal) but in cultivating qualities that allow us to bridge the gaps between our internal worlds: We must comprehend our own prejudices, presumptions, and emotional stimulants. We should actively strive to put ourselves in the shoes of others and perceive the world through their distinct perspective, even for a brief moment. Instead of immediately dismissing a differing view, ask, "Why do they think that way?" "What experiences led them to this conclusion?" It's important to acknowledge that our perception of reality is not always accurate. It's crucial to develop the ability to express our ideas clearly and, above all, to actively and candidly listen to others. The quote from “Manners in the Great Kingdom” challenges us to look beyond external circumstances and study the complex, often confusing, inner workings of our own and others’ minds. It suggests that if we want to build a more understanding and cooperative world, the journey begins not with fixing “them” or “him,” but with recognizing and navigating the fascinating, complex, and sometimes problematic landscape of “how we think.”



Friday, July 11, 2025

A Modern Fable of Friendship and Finding Your Own Feast

We all know the story: a wide-eyed country mouse visits their city slicker friend, only to find the allure of fancy food overshadowed by the constant threat of danger. It's a classic tale about appreciating what you have and knowing yourself. But what if we updated this fable for the 21st century, swapping mice for humans and trading fields for WiFi?  Imagine Maya, a talented artist living a peaceful life in a small, rural town. Surrounded by rolling hills, crisp air, and a close-knit community, she finds inspiration in the simplicity of her surroundings. Her days are filled with painting landscapes, selling her art at local markets, and enjoying potlucks with her neighbors. Life isn't extravagant, but it's fulfilling. Then there's Chloe, Maya’s childhood best friend, who traded the countryside for the bright lights of the city. Chloe’s a successful tech entrepreneur, living in a sleek apartment overlooking the city skyline. She’s got the gadgets, the clothes, and the social calendar to prove she's made it. One day, Chloe calls Maya, her voice buzzing with excitement. "You absolutely have to come visit! Life here is amazing! Think rooftop parties, Michelin-star restaurants, and networking events with the coolest people. I'll treat you to everything!" Maya, feeling a little stuck in her routine and intrigued by Chloe's glamorous descriptions, accepts the invitation. She packs her bags, a mix of excitement and trepidation swirling within her. The city is a sensory overload. The sheer volume of people, the constant hum of traffic, and the towering buildings leave Maya feeling disoriented. Chloe, ever the gracious host, whisks her away to a trendy restaurant, where they're presented with a menu full of dishes with names Maya can barely pronounce. "Try this truffle risotto," Chloe urges, "It's divine!" Maya takes a bite. It's rich, creamy, and undeniably delicious. But as she savors the flavor, a nagging feeling of unease begins to creep in. The restaurant is packed, the noise level is deafening, and the constant stream of waiters buzzing around makes her feel on edge. Over the next few days, Chloe puts on her best show. They attend a gallery opening that showcases avant-garde art, leaving Maya perplexed. They attend a concert where the music is so loud that it pierces Maya's bones. They also attend a networking event where Maya experiences a profound sense of alienation, surrounded by individuals conversing in a language of venture capital and start-up jargon. Chloe, caught up in the whirlwind of her city life, doesn't notice Maya's growing discomfort. She's constantly checking her phone, juggling calls, and making plans for the next big thing. While Chloe is offering Maya a taste of the "good life," she's also inadvertently exposing the underlying anxieties of a fast-paced urban existence. One evening, as they're enjoying (or rather, enduring) a fancy cocktail party, a prominent investor starts grilling Chloe about her company's performance. The pressure is palpable, and Maya watches as Chloe’s smile tightens and her usual confident demeanor falters. Just then, a rumor starts circulating about a potential scandal involving a rival company, sending a ripple of panic through the room. "Oh my god, this is insane," Maya whispers to Chloe. "Is it always like this?" Chloe sighs, a rare moment of vulnerability breaking through her carefully constructed facade. “It’s…intense. You have to constantly be ‘on,’ always hustling, always networking. One wrong move and everything could fall apart.” That night, lying in the guest room of Chloe’s ultra-modern apartment, Maya can’t sleep. The city noise is a constant drone, a stark contrast to the quiet serenity she's used to. She thinks about the investor's probing questions, the hushed whispers about scandal, and Chloe's weary expression. She realizes that the "cornucopia" of city life comes with a heavy price: constant pressure, relentless competition, and a pervasive sense of insecurity. The next morning, as Chloe rushes off to a meeting, Maya makes a decision. She calls Chloe later that day. “Chloe, I really appreciate you showing me around,” Maya says, her voice sincere. “But I think I need to head back home.” Chloe sounds surprised. “But…I thought you were having a good time! We haven’t even been to all the cool spots yet!” “I was,” Maya replies, “but I realized something. This life…it’s not for me. I miss the quiet, the open spaces, and the feeling of knowing everyone in town. I miss my art studio and the smell of fresh paint. I miss the peace.” Chloe is silent for a moment. Then, she says softly, "I understand. It's not for everyone. Sometimes I wonder if it's even for me." Maya smiles. "Don't get me wrong, the truffle risotto was amazing! But I think I prefer my homemade apple pie and the company of my neighbors. The city is your feast, Chloe, but the countryside is mine.” They promise to stay in touch, and Maya heads back to her small town, a sense of profound relief washing over her. Back in her cozy art studio, surrounded by her paintings and the familiar scent of linseed oil, she feels a deep sense of contentment. The Illusion of the “Good Life”: What appears glamorous and desirable on the outside may be filled with hidden tensions and anxieties. While the big city presents opportunities and excitement, it also necessitates relentless competition and a constant drive to excel and fully embrace life. Such an environment can be stressful for many people. If you know yourself, you can always make a choice. Understanding that finding a life aligned with your values brings true happiness, rather than pursuing external recognition or material possessions, is crucial. I am confident that living in accordance with your values will bring you true joy.


Monday, July 7, 2025

A person's clothes may conceal their true nature, yet their words and actions expose it.

We've all heard the old saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover." It’s a classic for a reason, and it rings especially true when we think about people. You see someone impeccably dressed, looking sharp and put-together, and your brain instantly makes assumptions. Maybe they're successful, trustworthy, or super organized. But here's the twist: "A person's clothes may conceal their true nature, yet their words and actions expose it." This isn't just a clever line; it's a profound truth about human nature. Think about it. Clothes are a costume. We choose what we wear to project an image—whether it's professionalism, rebellion, comfort, or style. They can be a fantastic tool for self-expression, but they are also a magnificent veil. What you wear can tell a story, but it's only a narrative you've curated. Opening your mouth and, more importantly, taking action reveals the true story, the unedited version. Our words carry our thoughts, beliefs, and values, while our actions are the ultimate manifestation of our character. They are the undeniable evidence of who we truly are, far beyond the fabric and threads.  Few examples, especially when it comes to folks we interact with regularly. Politicians are perhaps the most quintessential example of individuals who understand the power of appearance. They'll often be seen in crisp suits, radiating an air of authority and trustworthiness, or perhaps in more casual attire during a grassroots campaign to appear relatable and "one of the people." Their speeches are finely tuned, their smiles practiced, and their public persona is meticulously crafted. They may make extravagant promises, delivering eloquent speeches about public service, integrity, and a brighter future for everyone. Their clothes and their carefully chosen words are designed to inspire confidence and garner votes. However, the true nature of a politician rarely stays hidden for long. Their voting record, actual policy decisions, and crisis management skills reveal their true nature, not the cost of their tie. Do their actions align with their campaign promises, or do they pivot dramatically once in power? Do their words of unity unexpectedly shift to divisive rhetoric when it aligns with their agenda? When they're caught in a scandal, the true measure of their character isn't how well they present themselves in a press conference for damage control but rather their willingness to take accountability or their desperate attempts to deflect blame. Actions often test a politician's words, revealing a stark contrast to their carefully crafted public image. We all cherish our friends, and often, friendships begin with a shared laugh, a common interest, or just a good vibe. Friends typically present themselves as supportive, loyal, and caring. They might dress similarly to you, signaling a shared identity, or they always seem pleased to see you. Their words are often comforting, encouraging, and full of positive affirmations. They tell you they've "got your back" and that they're "always there for you." But how do you really know if someone is a true friend? It’s not about how many likes they give your social media posts or how quickly they respond to a text. The true nature of a friend is revealed in moments of vulnerability, crisis, or even success. When you encounter difficulties, do their words of support transform into tangible assistance and presence? Or do they disappear? When you share good news, is their congratulations genuine, or is there a subtle undercurrent of envy or dismissal in their tone or body language? A 'friend' who always talks behind your back, who subtly puts you down, or who only appears when they need something from you reveals their true colors through these actions, regardless of how friendly their outward appearance or initial words may seem. Genuine individuals consistently show up, listen, and act in your best interest, even when it's inconvenient. This category perhaps most vividly illustrates the quote. A "cheat"—whether it's a con artist, an unfaithful partner, or someone who consistently takes advantage of others—often works hard to present a façade of trustworthiness, charm, or innocence. They might dress impeccably to inspire confidence or humbly to appear harmless. Their words are often smooth, believable, and meticulously crafted to manipulate. They might weave elaborate stories, make grand promises, or feign deep understanding and empathy, all to lull their targets into a false sense of security. However, the nature of a cheat is inherently revealed by their actions. The con artist's true nature comes out when the money disappears and their grand promises evaporate. The unfaithful partner's loyalty is exposed by their secret rendezvous and broken vows. The dishonest business associate's true intentions are laid bare when they default on agreements or disappear with funds. Their actions are the unmasking moment, the undeniable proof that their words were hollow and their appearance a mere disguise. No matter how convincing their act, the trail of deceit they leave behind speaks volumes about who they truly are. In essence, this timeless quote serves as a vital reminder to look beyond the superficial. While clothes can be an interesting first impression, and initial words can be captivating, it's the consistent pattern of someone's verbal and behavioral output that truly defines them. It teaches us to be discerning, to pay attention, and to understand that true character isn't worn on the sleeve but expressed through every single word spoken and every action taken. So, the next time you meet someone, admire their outfit, but listen to their words and, most importantly, watch what they do. That's where the real story unfolds.



Thursday, July 3, 2025

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You can find it in stores as a hardcover, softcover, or e-book. Manners in the Great Kingdom, The Wealth of the Great Kingdom, The Heir of the Dynasty,  369 Hours of Punishment, and Unforgettable Personalities of History.

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Saturday, June 28, 2025

When GPS Goes Wrong: A Modern Tale of Trouble

In a world dominated by apps, artificial intelligence, and instant solutions, the concept of self-help can seem outdated. Here’s a quick example. A seasoned entrepreneur named George once resided on the outskirts of town. George was a traditionalist who valued hard work and independent problem-solving. His business—a small organic produce delivery company for local farms—was thriving but required constant attention. George had two sons, Alex and Bobby—typical members of Generation Z. They were born with smartphones in their hands, accustomed to Google Maps, online tutoring, and instant roadside assistance. Every day, George would take them with him to help with his deliveries. They navigated with GPS and managed online orders, but when it came to the mechanical aspects of the old but reliable van, that was Dad’s job. One day, however, Georgi got sick. “Boys,” he said, his voice hoarse, “today you’re going to have to make the deliveries yourself. The app has everything loaded, including the route. Alex, the older and more worried one, immediately frowned. “We’ll go, Dad, of course. But what if the van breaks down in some remote spot? We’re proficient with apps, but not with wrenches. What would we do without you?” Georgi smiled sagely. “Don’t worry. When you really get stuck, Trouble will show you how to fix it.” The boys shook their heads, wondering what their father meant, and set off on their route. The deliveries were going well until, just as they were entering a more remote rural area, they heard a loud crash. The van began to shake, and Alex knew immediately—a flat tire. The two brothers got out and stared desperately at the flat tire. “What now?” Bobby muttered. Alex immediately took out his phone. “Don’t worry! I’ll call Dad! Alternatively, I could seek roadside assistance! Or I’ll search YouTube for ‘how to change a tire’!” Just then, his phone unexpectedly displayed the message "No coverage." He was unable to make any calls or access mobile internet. There was no way to call roadside assistance. The YouTube tutorials remained a mere fantasy. Alex started shouting, almost jokingly, “Trouble! Trouble! Come fix our van! The products are going to spoil!” He repeated it several times, but, of course, he only got silence in response. Hours passed. The sun slowly began to set. Bobby, who had been wondering what to do until now, looked at his brother. “Listen, Alex, it’s clear that no “Trouble” is going to come fix our tire. Dad said she’ll show us. Maybe we should try it ourselves? We have a spare tire, and we have a jack.” The decision was made without delay. Reluctantly, but driven by the approaching night and the risk of spoiling the entire delivery, the boys opened the trunk. With the help of old, forgotten instructions in the van’s manual (which their father always told them to check) and with a lot of sweat and dirt, they somehow managed to change the tire. It was awkward and slow but, in the end, successful. Soon the van was moving again, albeit a little slower, and they managed to make all the deliveries, albeit with a huge delay. When they told their father what had happened, Georgi smiled broadly. “Ah, boys! This was the trouble! You did it yourself, not because of an outside savior, but because of an inner force and need. It was the teacher who showed you that you were capable of much more than you thought.”

The moral of the story in the modern world:

In an age of instant answers and outside help, this story remains relevant. It reminds us that real learning comes from doing. No YouTube tutorial or phone call can replace the experience of dealing with a difficult situation on your own. Problems present opportunities: Any challenge that compels you to think creatively and take action genuinely enhances your problem-solving abilities. Independence is priceless: In a world where we often assign tasks to others, the ability to handle duties independently when technology or outside assistance fails becomes increasingly crucial. "Adversity "is a driving force: sometimes you just have to be put in a situation where you have no choice but to do it yourself and discover your own hidden resources and talents. So, the next time your GPS stops working or your app doesn't work, don't despair. Maybe that's when adversity will prompt you to discover your inner "roadside assistance."


Tuesday, June 24, 2025

This is not a secret. These are the fundamental facts

Imagine the following truly absurd, yet illustrative situation: Every morning, as the first gentle rays of the sun pierce the darkness and begin to paint the day, a mysterious bank transfers the solid sum of $86,400 to your account. This transaction is not a mistake; it is not a joke but a real, impressive loan, intended exclusively and only for you. The loan is in American currency, a globally recognized symbol of opportunity and freedom. You can use the money for anything you want once it reaches your account. But, as with any privilege, there is one important, perhaps even crucial, condition: Every evening, without exception, as the shadows lengthen and day begins to give way to night, the bank ruthlessly cancels any portion of the loan that you have not managed to utilize in the previous 24 hours. This implies that any amount you have not withdrawn, wisely spent, or invested for future growth simply vanishes—evaporating into oblivion, irretrievably lost forever. There is no option to transfer it, no possibility of recovery. Think deeply: How would you react in this situation? What would your plan of action be? Think carefully, because this question reveals a lot about your priorities and attitude toward abundance. Of course, your instinct would be to withdraw every last cent from your account balance! You'd be careful with every dollar, knowing that tomorrow you'll have a new chance to miss something important. Well, let me tell you a secret: Time is just like that bank. Every day, without asking for anything in return, it credits you with an incredible 86,400 seconds. These are 86,400 opportunities to live fully, to love unconditionally, to create with inspiration, to develop tirelessly, and to pursue your dreams. Every morning, upon awakening, you receive this priceless, inexhaustible (at first glance) resource, ready to be invested wisely and strategically. But, just like with a bank loan, every night mercilessly takes away, at a loss, that part of the seconds that you have not managed to invest in a good deed, in a meaningful goal, in sincere love, in shared joy, or simply in a moment of peace, silence, and gratitude. This loss is final and irreversible. The rest, unfortunately, does not carry over to the next day. There is no way to save time for future projects or when you need it more. Furthermore, you cannot overdraft—you cannot borrow time from the future to make up for past shortcomings. Every day opens a new account for you, fresh and untouched, filled with new possibilities. Every night burns the account of the past day, forever erasing the possibility of changing something that has already passed, of going back in time and doing things differently. If you fail to use your full deposit for the day, you lose. You lose not only precious seconds but also the opportunity to make a real difference in your life or in the lives of others, to improve yourself, to help someone, and to leave your mark on the world. There is no going back. You cannot make any withdrawals for the future. You must live solely in the present, operating with today's deposit. Invest it wisely, with care and attention. Approach every second with awareness and gratitude. Invest it in such a way that you will receive the greatest return—in the form of health, happiness, knowledge, love, meaningful relationships, and selfless service to others. Ultimately, the most precious rewards are those that endure beyond a single day, those that enhance your life and the lives of those around you, and those that create a lasting impression on memories and emotions. Remember: Time is the most valuable resource you will ever possess. It is worth more than gold, diamonds, and all the world's riches, as it is irreplaceable. Don’t waste it aimlessly. Don’t waste it on things that don’t matter. Use it wisely, consciously, and purposefully to create a life worth living. These are just a few of the "Laws of Life"—simple truths that have the power to change your perspective, expand your consciousness, and inspire you to live more consciously, fully, and meaningfully. Let this story serve as a reminder to cherish every moment and invest your time in things that truly matter. 


Friday, June 20, 2025

The effort made does not always lose value due to unforeseen circumstances

We've all heard it. Maybe you're sprinting into a movie theater ten minutes after showtime, muttering, "Better late than never!" Or perhaps a friend finally finishes that project they've been putting off for months, exclaiming, "Well, better late than never, right?" It's a common expression, a comforting blanket statement that we throw around when things don't quite go according to plan. But behind this simple phrase lies a deeper truth about perseverance, opportunity, and the importance of showing up, even when the clock isn't on your side. "Better late than never" is a proverb, meaning it's a short, popular saying that expresses a common truth or belief. The main point is that it's better to do something late than not at all. It's a gentle nudge toward action, a reminder that missed deadlines or unforeseen circumstances don't necessarily negate the value of the effort. Think about it. Imagine you've always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Life gets in the way—work, family, and other commitments. Years pass, and the dream fades. Then, one day, you decide to finally pick up an instrument. You might feel regret for not starting sooner, but the prevailing sentiment should be relief and excitement. You're finally doing it! The initial feeling of "I should have started years ago" is quickly overshadowed by the joy of learning something new. This principle applies to countless areas of life. Maybe you've been meaning to apologize to someone you hurt. Perhaps you've been procrastinating on a health check-up. Or maybe you've been putting off starting that small business you've always dreamed of. In each of these scenarios, the "better late than never" philosophy encourages us to overcome inertia and take action. But is it always true? Are there situations where "never" might actually be, well, better? The answer, of course, is yes. There are instances where the passage of time renders an action ineffective or even harmful. For example, trying to evacuate from a hurricane zone after the worst of the storm has already hit would be incredibly dangerous and potentially fatal. Similarly, investing in a trending stock after it has already peaked could lead to significant financial losses. It's important to approach the saying with a healthy dose of nuance because of this. The phrase shouldn't be used as an excuse for habitual procrastination or a justification for consistently missing deadlines. Responsible application of "better late than never" involves realistically assessing the situation, understanding the potential consequences of delay, and weighing the benefits of taking action, even if it's overdue. Furthermore, it's important to consider the impact of lateness on others. While it may be preferable to submit a project late, consistently doing so could harm your reputation and undermine trust among colleagues. In such cases, it's crucial to communicate proactively, offer apologies for any inconvenience caused, and strive to improve time management skills to avoid future delays.  This proverb motivates us to overcome inertia and grasp opportunities, even when the timing isn't ideal. It's a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of showing up, regardless of the circumstances. However, it's crucial to apply the phrase with wisdom and discernment, considering the potential consequences of delay and the impact our actions have on others. So, the next time you find yourself facing a situation where you're tempted to give up because it's "too late," remember this simple saying. This simple saying could serve as the motivation you require to initiate action. After all, isn't it better to try than to spend the rest of your days wondering, "What if?"


The only problem is the way people think

You may scratch your head, nod, or argue with your screen over this quote from my first book.  Whew. Take a breath. That's quite a bold ...