The Better Blueprint

Embracing Gratitude and Kindness

Hello, sun in my face.

You who awaken the morning and spread your light over fields, painting the tulips and the nodding morning glories with your golden touch. You who find your way into the windows of even the most miserable and crotchety souls, reminding them of the beauty that persists despite the darkness.

You, the best preacher that ever was, a dear star placed just so in the universe to ward off the ever-looming shadows. Your warm touch eases our burdens, holding us gently in your great hands of light.

Good morning, good morning, good morning.

In these early moments, as the sun greets us with its unwavering brilliance, we are reminded of the power of beginnings. Each morning brings a new opportunity to embrace happiness and kindness, to spread warmth and light just as the sun does.

Let us take inspiration from this celestial guide, allowing its unwavering presence to infuse our days with purpose and positivity. As we watch the sun start its journey, let us too, embark on ours with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit committed to kindness.

Dangerous cognitive bias to avoid: The Einstellung Effect

Imagine you're solving a jigsaw puzzle. For the first few puzzles, you always start by finding the edge pieces and building the border first. This method works well, and you become comfortable with it.

Now, you're given a puzzle with a unique pattern that makes it much easier to start from the center. However, because you're so used to starting with the edges, you stick to your usual method and struggle with the puzzle. Someone new to puzzles might quickly see that starting from the center is more efficient.

Experience is valuable, but don’t let it trap you in inefficient methods. When faced with a problem, pause and consider if there’s a better way, even if it’s different from what you usually do. This is especially important in large organizations where traditional methods are often preferred.

Always ask yourself: Is the usual way really the best way?

A Great Quote

“A work of art is the unique result of a unique temperament. Its beauty comes from the fact that the author is what he is. It has nothing to do with the fact that other people want what they want. Indeed, the moment that an artist takes notice of what other people want, and tries to supply the demand, he ceases to be an artist, and becomes a dull or an amusing craftsman, an honest or a dishonest tradesman. He has no further claim to be considered as an artist.”
- Oscar Wilde
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Book Review: Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

In Hermann Hesse's "Siddhartha," we journey alongside a young man in ancient India as he seeks spiritual enlightenment and self-discovery. This timeless novel, rich in philosophical insights and profound reflections, offers a compelling narrative that resonates deeply with anyone on a quest for meaning and purpose.

The Journey of the Self

Siddhartha, the protagonist, embarks on a journey that takes him from the sheltered life of a Brahmin's son to the austere existence of a wandering ascetic. Along the way, he encounters various teachers and experiences the full spectrum of human life—from the heights of spiritual ecstasy to the depths of sensual pleasure. His quest is not just for knowledge, but for an experiential understanding of life and self.

Key Themes

1. The Search for Enlightenment: Siddhartha's journey is driven by a deep yearning for enlightenment, a state of perfect understanding and harmony. He learns that true wisdom cannot be taught but must be experienced firsthand.

2. The Role of Suffering: The novel illustrates how suffering and hardship are integral to personal growth. Siddhartha's encounters with pain and loss lead him to greater self-awareness and empathy.

3. Unity and Connection: Hesse beautifully explores the interconnectedness of all life. Siddhartha ultimately realizes that every individual is a part of a greater whole, a river of life flowing through time.

4. The Illusion of Time: Siddhartha's awakening includes a realization that time is an illusion. The past, present, and future are all one, and enlightenment comes from seeing this unity.

Personal Reflections

Reading "Siddhartha" is a transformative experience. Hesse's lyrical prose and deep philosophical insights invite readers to reflect on their own life journeys. The novel encourages us to seek our path, to embrace both the highs and lows of existence, and to find peace in the present moment.

For those of us on our own quests for personal growth and understanding, "Siddhartha" serves as a gentle guide. It reminds us that enlightenment is not a destination but a continuous process of learning, experiencing, and evolving.

Final Thoughts

"Siddhartha" is more than just a story; it is a meditation on life itself. As we turn the pages, we are reminded of the importance of introspection, the value of authentic experiences, and the beauty of our interconnected lives. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

About : Welcome to our fortnightly newsletter, where in each edition, you'll find two sections dedicated to personal growth, a meticulously curated quote to inspire, and a review of a life-changing book. Plus, we'll occasionally delve deeper into habits and self-improvement frameworks.