What's in mind?

The Pause Principle is the practice of intentionally stopping and reflecting before acting. Pausing is a deliberate and strategic act that enables clarity, awareness, and better choices. It is a simple concept with profound implications for leadership, learning, and life. In a world addicted to speed, the idea of slowing down can feel like a failure. We praise hustle. We reward reaction. We glorify multitasking and speed as if they were synonymous with effectiveness. But the best decisions, the most powerful conversations, and the most transformative moments don’t come from speeding up. The term was coined by Kevin Cashman, a leadership coach and author of The Pause Principle: Step Back to Lead Forward. The term captures the essence of a powerful paradox: slowing down can speed up your effectiveness. When we pause, we engage the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for complex thinking, empathy, and decision-making. In contrast, reacting impulsively often activates t...

The Enneagram is a personality framework that identifies nine core personality types, each with its worldview, patterns of thinking, emotional drivers, and habitual behaviors. Unlike many personality systems that focus solely on traits, the Enneagram offers a map to the deeper motivations, fears, and desires that shape how we think, feel, and behave. It reveals patterns of conditioning you’ve picked up over a lifetime and offers a pathway toward greater freedom and authenticity. The Nine Enneagram Types The Reformer (Type One) – Principled, purposeful, and self-controlled, with a deep drive for improvement and integrity. The Helper (Type Two) – Caring, empathetic, and generous, often motivated by a desire to be needed and appreciated. The Achiever (Type Three) – Success-oriented, adaptable, and image-conscious, thriving on accomplishment and recognition. The Individualist (Type Four) – Sensitive, expressive, and introspective, driven by a search for authenticity and identity....

Nyaya is one of the classical schools of Indian philosophy. At its core, Nyaya is a system of rational inquiry that explores things like: What is valid knowledge? How do we know what we know? How can we argue effectively, without falling into fallacies or confusion? Nyaya is a practical philosophy for clear thinking, careful dialogue, and living a life grounded in truth. The Foundations: Four Means of Knowledge Nyaya identifies four valid sources of knowledge (pramanas), a concept that sets it apart from many Western traditions. Perception (Pratyaksha) : What we directly observe with our senses. Inference (Anumana) : Logical reasoning from observation. Comparison/Analogy (Upamana) : Learning something by comparing it to something familiar. Verbal testimony (Shabda) : Trustworthy knowledge from a reliable authority, including scripture or an expert. These four pillars help define how Nyaya separates true knowledge from illusion, error, or blind belief. Logi...

Yoga is very popular in the Western world. You’ll be able to find a yoga studio in most cities. Classes are packed. Instagram is flooded with yoga influencers in impossible poses. Yoga pants are a multi-billion-dollar industry. But how many of them understand the roots of yoga? How many of them heard about the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, or the philosophical roots of yoga? Yoga, in its traditional Indian form, is not merely a set of physical postures (asanas). It is a holistic system of personal and spiritual development. Classical texts like the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali outline a comprehensive eightfold path (Ashtanga Yoga), which includes: Yama – ethical restraints Niyama – self-discipline Asana – physical posture Pranayama – breath control Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses Dharana – concentration Dhyana – meditation Samadhi – spiritual liberation These practices are deeply embedded in Indian philosophical systems, which explore questions of consciousness, self, re...

In a world obsessed with ownership, boundaries, and individuality, it's easy to forget that life itself only exists because of sharing. Beneath every living cell, within every breath, and throughout every relationship in nature, sharing is not just an act of kindness. Sharing is a biological and spiritual necessity. The electrons in an atom to a vast interconnected web of ecosystems, nature teaches us one clear truth. Nothing exists in isolation. At every level of life, sharing is not optional. It is essential. Atoms are the building blocks of everything in the universe, including stars, rivers, skin, bones, and breath. But a single atom, on its own, is limited. When atoms share electrons through chemical bonds to form molecules. Water (H₂O), which sustains all life, exists because hydrogen and oxygen share electrons. DNA, the molecule that stores life’s genetic code, is a complex result of countless atoms sharing electrons in intricate patterns. Every structure in your body, fr...

The Eastern perspective on living well is gentle yet powerful. These teachings prioritize inner peace, balance, and alignment with the natural rhythms of existence. It’s an approach that shifts the focus from external achievements to internal balance. The paths of Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and Confucianism have their distinct characteristics. Let us explore key principles from these traditions for living well. Embrace Impermanence In Buddhist philosophy, the concept of “anicca” or impermanence is a cornerstone of understanding suffering. We cling to pleasure, youth, and success. We resist pain, loss, and change. Our emotions, relationships, possessions, and even our lives are transient. Clinging to things as if they are permanent leads to suffering (dukkha). We must accept the change to live well. Think of a river. It is constantly moving, changing course, and evolving. Trying and holding onto a single drop of water is futile. Similarly, our lives are a continuous flow of experi...

Western thinkers, from ancient Greek philosophers to modern psychologists, offer insights into leading a meaningful life. In a world full of distractions, conflicting priorities, and existential uncertainties, having guiding principles can help us navigate life with purpose, resilience, and joy. They are not strict commandments but flexible principles, meant to be adapted to your unique circumstances. Examine Life with Curiosity and Intention Living an examined life helps you avoid drifting aimlessly through existence, reacting to circumstances without purpose. It promotes clarity and intention, enabling you to align your actions with your core values. The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates famously declared, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” This principle, echoed by Plato and later thinkers, emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and intellectual curiosity. To live well, engage with life deliberately—question your assumptions, seek truth, and pursue knowledge. This...

Asymmetry describes situations where elements, information, power, or resources are unequally distributed. The beauty of asymmetry lies in its universality. Whether you're examining biological systems, economic markets, or personal relationships, you'll find the same underlying patterns of unequal distribution creating both opportunities and challenges. We live in a world obsessed with balance. We seek work-life balance, balanced diets, and balanced perspectives. But the most powerful principle governing our reality is unbalanced. Asymmetry is the invisible hand shaping your daily experiences. Asymmetry creates imbalance, and this imbalance allows complex systems to function effectively. The heart isn't exactly centered in your chest, the brain's hemispheres are specialized for different functions, and in any negotiation, one party usually has more information than the other. These aren't flaws in design. They are features that promote efficiency, specialization,...

The art of knowing is a philosophical metaphor for the human pursuit of understanding. How do we come to know? What counts as knowledge? What does it mean to know something? The art of knowing requires patience, humility, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. It is a human endeavor, shaped by our minds, our senses, and the stories we tell ourselves about the world. Knowledge is defined as justified true belief. To truly know something, we must believe it, it must be true, and we must have good reasons for that belief. How do we verify the truth? And what happens if our beliefs are later proven wrong? The art of knowing involves balancing the contradictions of certainty and doubt, reason and intuition, and individual insight and collective wisdom. Human beings are curious creatures. We are driven by a fundamental desire to understand the world. This pursuit of knowledge, which we call inquiry, is not a singular act but a set of methods, each shaped by philosophical assumptions abo...

Intelligent journalism is a practice characterized by intellectual rigor, critical thinking, ethical integrity, and a dedication to delivering accurate, nuanced, and impactful information to the public. It goes beyond just reporting facts, focusing on depth, context, and the ability to navigate complex issues in ways that inform, engage, and empower audiences. In an age of information overload, polarization, and misinformation, intelligent journalism acts as a vital tool for fostering a well-informed society and strengthening democratic processes. Journalism plays a vital role in democracy by holding power accountable, informing the public, and revealing truths that might otherwise stay hidden. Ideally, a well-functioning press provides citizens with accurate, timely, and detailed information to help them make informed decisions about their lives. However, this ideal can only be achieved if journalists possess the intelligence, curiosity, and ethical principles needed to handle comple...

In psychology and neuroscience, a belief is a mental representation of how we think the world works. It’s our internal model of reality, formed through experience, learning, culture, and biology. Belief is a powerful force that shapes our thoughts, behaviors, and perceptions of the world. From religious convictions to scientific paradigms, beliefs influence how we interpret reality and make decisions. Belief is more than just passive acceptance of an idea. It’s a psychological and neurological process that guides behavior, influences decision-making, and even alters our physical and emotional health. Understanding the science behind belief helps us appreciate not only how it works, but also why it's such a central part of being human. At its core, a belief is a mental state in which a person accepts something as true, often without needing conclusive proof. They are formed by a complex mix of mental processes, feelings, and outside influences like culture, upbringing, and person...

Fatalism is the philosophical doctrine that all events are inevitable and that human beings are powerless to change the future. It suggests that everything that happens is predetermined, and efforts to alter or resist outcomes are ultimately futile. According to fatalism, the future is fixed, and no amount of effort, choice, or action can change what is destined to happen. This contrasts with philosophies that emphasize free will, where individuals are seen as active agents capable of shaping their paths. Fatalism often carries a sense of resignation or acceptance. However, fatalism is not necessarily synonymous with pessimism. Some fatalists find comfort in the idea that life’s events are part of a larger, inevitable plan, which can alleviate the pressure of decision-making or the fear of uncertainty. The term "fatalism" derives from the Latin fatum, meaning "fate" or "destiny," and is closely tied to the idea of an unchangeable course of events. While...

Self-love is the practice of valuing, accepting, and caring for oneself with kindness, compassion, and respect. It involves recognizing your inherent worth, prioritizing your well-being, and fostering a positive relationship with yourself. Self-love is the practice of valuing and caring for yourself. Self-love includes emotional, mental, and physical aspects, including Self-acceptance : Embracing your strengths, flaws, and unique qualities without judgment. Self-care : Engaging in activities that nurture your physical, mental, and emotional health. Self-compassion : Treating yourself with kindness during challenges or failures, rather than harsh self-criticism. Self-respect : Setting boundaries, honoring your needs, and making choices aligned with your values. Self-love is not narcissism or selfishness. It's about cultivating a healthy, balanced relationship with yourself that enables you to live authentically and support others effectively. Self-love is foundati...

Decision-making is the process of identifying a situation, evaluating options, and selecting a course of action to achieve a desired outcome. It’s a cognitive process influenced by logic, emotions, beliefs, and external factors. It is used in personal, professional, and organizational contexts. Decision-making is the process of choosing between two or more alternatives to achieve a desired outcome. It involves identifying a problem or opportunity, evaluating possible courses of action, and selecting the most appropriate option based on available information, goals, and values. Decision-making is a fundamental aspect of human life. At the core of each decision lies a tension between two powerful forces: emotion and reason. Emotion is expressed through desire and fear. It motivates us and adds urgency to our choices. Reason is operating through logic and rational thought. It offers a structured approach to navigating complexity and uncertainty. The interplay between these forces define...

Healthspan refers to the number of years a person lives in good health, free from serious disease, physical limitations, or mental decline. Lifespan refers to the total number of years a person lives, from birth to death. Due to advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and public health, the average human lifespan has increased significantly over the past century. But a longer life doesn’t necessarily mean a better life when a significant portion of those years is spent battling chronic illness, disability, or cognitive decline. Lifespan adds years to your life. Healthspan adds life to your years. Extending lifespan without extending healthspan can result in more years spent in hospitals, on medications, or unable to enjoy daily activities. Think of lifespan as the length of your life. Then, healthspan is the part of that timeline where you’re thriving, not just surviving. Longer lifespans without corresponding improvements in healthspan increase the strain on healthcare systems, car...

Accountability means taking ownership of your actions and being answerable to others. It involves a willingness to accept responsibility and to be transparent about outcomes. It impacts individuals by fostering growth and integrity. It holds societies together through trust and stability. For individuals, accountability is a game-changer. When you hold yourself accountable, you open the door to personal growth and development. By owning your mistakes and successes, you gain the chance to learn, adapt, and improve. This builds self-awareness. It also strengthens integrity and shows others that you’re trustworthy. Accountability boosts self-esteem. When you take charge of your actions, you feel a sense of control and purpose. It empowers you to shape your path. People who consistently take responsibility for their actions earn the trust of others. Whether in personal relationships or the workplace, accountability builds a foundation of reliability and respect. Knowing that one will b...

Being human is a wild, messy, and fascinating experience. A blend of biology, consciousness, and culture that sets us apart in the universe. To be human is to be aware of the world and yourself. We know we’re alive and we’ll die. This knowledge gives life depth, and sometimes, despair. We laugh because life is absurd. We cry because it’s also beautiful. We are haunted by the past and obsessed with the future. We replay old conversations and practice new ones that may never happen. Time isn’t just a ticking clock. It’s a weight we carry in the form of memory and anticipation. Our self-awareness raises the question. What is the purpose of life? Is there inherent meaning, or do we create it ourselves? Some argue that humans exist in this world without a manual and are left to figure it out. Others suggest that meaning emerges from our choices and struggles. Being human means grappling with infinite questions about our existence. We’re finite beings constantly seeking answers to questi...

Critical thinking is analyzing, evaluating, and synthesizing information objectively to form a reasoned judgment. Critical thinking enables individuals to navigate complexity, avoid manipulation, and make sound decisions. In a fast-paced and information-saturated world, critical thinking has become essential for personal, professional, and societal well-being. Its importance lies in its capacity to empower individuals to make informed decisions, solve problems effectively, combat misinformation, and foster innovation in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic world. One of the most pressing reasons critical thinking is essential today is the volume of information available. The digital age has democratized access to knowledge, with social media platforms, news outlets, and websites bombarding individuals with data daily. However, not all information is reliable or accurate. Misinformation, disinformation, and biased narratives proliferate, often designed to manipulate emotions or ...

Synchronicity is the occurrence of unrelated events that align meaningfully without a causal connection. These "meaningful coincidences" carry a sense of purpose or a deeper connection to the universe. Synchronicity has found applications in psychology and spirituality. It explores the interplay between the human psyche and the mysteries of existence. Swiss psychiatrist Carl Gustav Jung introduced the concept of synchronicity. Jung described it as a phenomenon where two or more events occur in a way that is not causally linked but holds profound meaning for the observer. For example, thinking of a long-lost friend and then unexpectedly receiving a call from them could be considered a synchronistic event. Jung proposed that synchronicity is distinct from the linear cause-and-effect relationships that govern physical reality. He suggested that these events are linked by meaning, facilitated by the collective unconscious that shapes human experience. Synchronicity challenges ...

The journey of water through evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and return to the earth or sea offers a profound metaphor for the life cycle of birth, growth, transformation, and death. Both processes are natural and inevitable. It invites a philosophical inquiry into continuity, impermanence, interconnectedness, and the tension between individuality and unity. By exploring these cycles, we can uncover insights into the human condition, the nature of existence, and our place in the cosmos. Evaporation transforms water to vapor by the warmth of the Sun, leaving behind the familiarity of rivers, lakes, or oceans. This ascent is a departure, a transformation from the grounded to the ethereal. Similarly, birth launches a human life into being, a singular entity emerging from the collective potential of existence. Both processes are acts of individuation. Water becomes vapor, distinct yet invisible. A person becomes a self, unique yet fragile. It raises questions of identity and pu...