Windblown 90min: Albert Einstein's Focus

Summary

In this insightful video, the speaker explores the ancient wisdom of the I Ching, or “Book of Changes,” discussing its relevance in understanding change, growth, and personal development. The speaker emphasizes that every night has a dawn, symbolizing hope and the inevitability of change. Drawing from historical examples, such as Admiral Sun-sin Lee and Kazuo Inamori, the speaker highlights the significance of the I Ching in predicting future events and making informed decisions. Through anecdotes, such as the story of a small fox struggling to cross a river, the speaker illustrates the importance of perseverance and learning from failures. The video delves into themes of reflection, humility, and the cyclical nature of growth, urging viewers to embrace their unfinished journeys and recognize the potential for growth within themselves and others. The speaker also discusses the balance of yin and yang, the cycle of experience, and the necessity of self-reflection in the learning process. Ultimately, the message is of hope, resilience, and the belief that everyone can succeed through dedication and self-awareness.

Highlights

• 🌅 Hope in Darkness: Every night will eventually see the dawn, symbolizing the inevitability of change and improvement.
• 📚 Historical Wisdom: The I Ching has been utilized by great leaders throughout history for its insights into predicting and preparing for future challenges.
• 🦊 Growth Through Struggle: The story of the small fox illustrates that setbacks do not equate to failure; they are opportunities for growth and learning.
• 🔄 Reflection is Key: Emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, the speaker highlights that authentic learning occurs when we reflect on our experiences.
• ⚖️ Yin and Yang: The cyclical nature of growth is akin to the balance of yin and yang, where contrast leads to transformation and development.
• 🙏 Power of Humility: Humility is portrayed as a strength that fosters growth and understanding for leaders and individuals alike.
• 🚀 Embracing Change: Encouragement to accept and adapt to change is pivotal for personal and professional success.

Key Insights

• 🌌 The Cycle of Change: The I Ching teaches us that life is a continuous change cycle. Just as the seasons shift, so must we adapt to the varying circumstances of our lives. Embracing this cycle can lead to personal growth and resilience in adversity.
• 🤔 The Importance of Reflection: Reflection is not merely a passive act but an active process that enhances our learning. John Dewey’s assertion that we learn through reflection underscores the necessity to ponder our experiences, allowing us to derive more profound meaning and insights from them.
• 📉 Embracing Imperfection: The concept of “mi” or incompleteness in the I Ching suggests that being unfinished is not a failure but a natural state allowing growth. This perspective encourages individuals to embrace their journey and acknowledge that each step, even if flawed, contributes to their development.
• 🙌 The Value of Humility: Humility is vital for effective leadership. The ability to acknowledge one’s limitations and learn from others fosters a more collaborative and innovative environment, ultimately leading to more tremendous success.
• ⏳ Timing and Readiness: Growth and change require desire and readiness. The speaker discusses the importance of recognizing when one is prepared for new challenges, emphasizing that timing can significantly influence the success of transitions in one’s career or personal life.
• 💪 Strength Through Adversity: Encountering challenges is inherent in life. The speaker parallels personal struggles and the “Maggie Effect,” where adversity can lead to resilience and strength. This insight encourages individuals to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than burdens.
• 🌱 Long-term Perspective on Money: The speaker warns against viewing money as an end goal. Instead, it should be seen as a means to achieve more incredible experiences and happiness. The emphasis is on building a healthy relationship with money, which serves as a tool for fulfillment rather than a source of stress or obsession.

In conclusion, the video encapsulates profound lessons from the I Ching and personal anecdotes, advocating for a mindset that embraces change, values reflection, and recognizes the potential for growth in every individual. The speaker encourages viewers to navigate their journeys with hope, resilience, and a commitment to continuous learning and self-discovery.

"There's never a night that doesn't lead to dawn. Even in the darkest nights, there’s an end.  Even if you’re stuck in disillusionment, sadness, and despair, the sun will rise. You will succeed because that's what you want. Some subscribers may have read the I Ching, the ancient wisdom from the East. Even if you haven't, you've probably heard of it. Many business leaders keep a copy of the I Ching on their shelves. General Lee Sun-sin from the Joseon Dynasty used its principles to predict and prepare for battles. Today, leaders like Kazuo Inamori, the founder of Kyocera, are also known for gaining significant insights from the I Ching. So today, I want to explore the insights from Koichi Ogura's book, 'Giants Find Answers in the I Ching,' and share my thoughts and the author’s perspectives to ponder together."

 

I'll try to break this down. The "I Ching" is often called a book about change in English. Forget about nationality, religion, or any specific worldview. It holds wisdom for interpreting and dealing with the changes of our times. So, I hope you can focus a little more today and stick with me till the end. There's a saying that a fox has a light head and a heavy tail, so it lifts its tail when crossing water. But if it gets tired and lets its tail dip in the water, it might not make it across or even drown. There was once a little fox trying to cross a river. It’s tough to keep its tail dry while swimming, but the little fox kept its tail high and swimming hard. Just as it was about to reach the other side, it accidentally got its tail wet. With a damp tail, the fox’s body became heavy, making swimming impossible. So, despite the little fox’s strong will and good intentions to cross, it failed.

 

 

Just because that little fox couldn’t cross the river due to being inexperienced and unprepared, does that mean it’s a tragic ending? Not at all. This little fox will eventually grow and gain experience, which means it’ll have another chance to cross that river. The term "미제" (mi-je) means "incomplete" here. Yes, being incomplete is not the same as failing. The emphasis on "미제" suggests that things aren’t finished yet, so it’s important to reflect on that inexperience and move forward to grow. Even more crucial is believing in my growth and having faith in the potential for others to grow. The word "education" comes from Latin, meaning to draw out, which implies bringing out the potential in others. Reflection means thoroughly looking back at our inexperienced selves, improving, and making promises for the future. In modern management, reflection, or introspection, is often seen as an effective method through experiential learning. That’s why John Dewey, an American philosopher and educator, said we learn something from our experiences.

 

 

 

We don’t really learn unless we take the time to reflect on our experiences. Simply put, we need that reflection time between knowledge and learning. That’s how we improve the quality of our education and grow. In a way, the concept of yin and yang from the I Ching is similar to the cycle of experience and learning; it’s all about constant change and balance. This is what growth is all about. Realizing your shortcomings is also about discovering new hope. You can overcome any challenge if you believe in that hope and keep moving forward. Life throws a lot at us, and we often have unresolved issues. We carry a lot of burdens with us. Some days are good, and some aren’t, but each day adds up to shape our lives. That’s why we might still feel incomplete. Our lives are a work in progress, a natural part of being human. Instead of stressing over perfection in a life without, focus on filling your days with meaning.

 

 

 

You're definitely growing. As I said, the main message isn’t about the world's end. Instead, it views the world as constantly changing, based on a transformation cycle. This perspective is so clear that it overlooks the issues of success and failure, focusing more on the hidden dangers of complacency and arrogance that come with achievement. The world is changing way too fast. What used to be considered truth can start to feel out of place as times and generations shift. In a capitalist society, this reality hits even harder. Businesses that can’t adapt quickly enough might as well be seen as obsolete. Take the Luddites in England back in 1811, for example. They were skilled workers who lost their jobs due to new textile machines during the Industrial Revolution, and they fought back against the changes. But they couldn’t stop the tide of progress. Just like you can’t turn back the clock, resisting change isn’t the answer. We need to find ways to adapt to the situation. After all, nothing stays the same forever.

 

Things that are tilted and organized eventually become chaotic. That's why it's said that those who recognize and accept change in the I Ching grow significantly. People often think they've achieved everything and everything is complete, but that's where the chaos begins. You shouldn't be satisfied with your accomplishments; you need to shift your perspective to learn new things that can apply elsewhere. Just like it’s said to remember the tough times, even when you’re enjoying peace, you shouldn't let your guard down during calm periods. But does that mean you must accept and adapt to every change? The I Ching emphasizes that timing is crucial for change, especially regarding promotions, independence, and job changes. Companies like General Electric and Walt Disney introduced a leadership development system called the Leadership Pipeline. It focuses on nurturing leaders from within rather than bringing them in from outside. However, this approach doesn't always guarantee good results. For instance, consider this...

 

 

Promoting a top employee to a manager is risky. Just because someone is excellent at their job doesn't mean they'll be a good manager. You can't really guarantee that. The nature of the roles is entirely different. As an employee, if you do your tasks well, you'll get recognized for that. However, a manager must handle their work and manage and direct others, which requires different skills. It means they need to grow even more. So, promoting a top employee could result in losing a valuable worker and adding an inexperienced manager, which could hurt the company in the long run. You might see yourself as a top employee and feel you've gained enough experience. But the key is to be cautious about that mindset. The right time for change isn’t when you've just been recognized for your work but when you're fully prepared to take on different responsibilities. That’s when it’s worth trying something new. How do you feel when you complete a task?

 

 

What else are you thinking about? Just getting good results isn’t the end of it. When you achieve something, don’t just be satisfied; you need to shift your focus to new ways of learning that can apply everywhere. If you want to grow even more, forget about your accomplishments, no matter how impressive. Always approach learning with a mindset of being a work in progress. That’s the best way to adapt to change and enjoy unexpected success and growth. Humility may seem like you’re bowing down to others, but it’s not like that at all. In terms of effectiveness, being humble is a powerful social skill. It’s something that’s mentioned repeatedly for its value and importance. But that doesn’t mean you should always keep a low profile; you must know when and where to do it. Being humble is helpful when you need guidance from someone more knowledgeable or in an awkward situation where trust is still being built. In the context of leadership, if someone in a high position, like a company leader, is seen as humble, it usually leads to positive outcomes all around.

 

 

They say that the reasons behind getting results are like seeds that sprout. It has been over 20 years since the term "the age of self-avoidance" came up. Back then, people believed in the saying, "The nail that sticks out gets hammered down," but since the late '90s, during the challenging economic times, being different from others has become a survival skill. Given how the world is today, there's no room for humility—where you downplay yourself to lift others. However, the kind of humility that the classics talk about isn't just about putting yourself down. If you have a lot, there's definitely someone out there who has less. If you're high up, there's someone lower down. Humility means reflecting on your position, being grateful for what you have, and actively trying to help those who don’t have what you do. Yet nowadays, some people get angry if they feel like something was taken from them. It’s all about biting and tearing at each other—“I have to win, even if it means you lose.”

 

 

If you push just a little more complicated in this world, is that the real success when you get an opportunity? The I Ching says no. When you look around and see people obsessing over what they don’t have, it’s clear that even though it seems like everyone has everything, we’re actually in a time of real lack. The I Ching emphasizes humility—over and over again. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a command. Yes, the teachings about humility from the I Ching are still relevant today. Why do we despise arrogance and admire humility? Because that’s just part of being human. If you think about the people you care about, it’s easy to see. This goes for celebrities and sports stars who are loved by many too. Remember, those with power are humble; ultimately, the humble ones get everything. The mouth can bring disaster, and the tongue can cut like a knife. This is a convenient truth. That’s why people often say that the mouth is the source of trouble. Many can relate to this daily, where slip-ups can lead to anger.

 

 

The experience of wearing something is endless. No matter how old you get, you must be aware of this. Talking about other people and sharing stories is fun. As the saying goes, you can’t control what others say, and humans naturally love to talk about others. There’s actually a scientific reason behind this. Recent neuroscience research has shown that when we evaluate someone in a lower position than us, the part of our brain that feels rewarded lights up, while assessing someone in a higher position activates the part that feels lost. Basically, our brains perceive those deemed inferior as rewarding and those who are superior as a loss. In simpler terms, we tend to judge and criticize the failures or mistakes of others who seem inferior to us, making ourselves feel superior and even getting a thrill from it. Especially nowadays, with smartphones and the internet always at our fingertips, we don’t even need the courage to face someone to say harsh criticisms or curses without hesitation.

 

 

It's all about what you put out there. The book "Tao Te Ching" talks about having a good time chatting, but it also stresses that you need to be really careful with your words. Just look at how many well-known people lose their standing overnight because of something they said; words can reflect a person's character or tendencies. Some folks blurt things out without thinking, claiming they have no limits. Others might use their bluntness as an excuse to insult someone directly. Why do they even say those things? They have nothing to gain and don't realize they're just making a bad impression. Some people get this kind of feedback a lot. On the flip side, some are great at understanding others and comforting them. To be a good talker, you must first be a good listener. If you don’t have that foundation, your words won’t carry any weight because no one wants to listen to someone who doesn’t listen to them.

 

 

They say if it takes two years to learn to talk, it takes sixty years to learn to listen. That shows how much harder it is to listen than to speak. Sometimes, silence speaks louder than words, but finding a relationship where you can share that silence is rare and challenging. The highest level of conversation is sharing thoughts; the middle level is talking about events, and the lowest is gossiping about people. So, who will you speak to today, and what will you talk about? That reflects your true self. You know that saying, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”? It might sound boring, but if you want to get far, you’ve got to take your time. Rushing doesn’t help; it’s about steady progress that really pays off. When you succeed and gain power, people flock to you, but those people will bail at the first sign of trouble. That’s why it’s essential to invest in your own time and build your own story.

 

 

Many people say that you must go through tough times and hardships to achieve anything worthwhile, and they’re right. It’s true that experiencing failures and challenges and learning from them builds solid confidence and patience. That’s how you develop clear judgment and persuasive communication. This is part of the path to success. Ultimately, those people don’t even bother hoping for a lucky break. There’s a story about a traveller who asked three guys laying bricks, "Why are you stacking those bricks?" The first guy said, "Because I have to." The second guy replied, "Because I get paid for it." But the last guy said, "I'm creating a meaningful space where people can relax." So, why do you work? What’s the purpose behind what you do? Or really, what’s the reason you’re living? It’s about following the proper steps and timing. Good results will eventually come if you build a solid foundation from the ground up. Everyone goes through times when things don’t go their way.

 

 

It's understandable to feel frustrated when it seems like someone who put in less effort is getting the opportunities you deserve. When you see someone with sneaky intentions thriving, it's hard not to feel resentful. That's a natural reaction. But remember, a capable person knows when to hold back. Stay confident and be patient; dawn always comes after a night. That day will go for you if you have an honest and strong heart. Your mind is where your true self resides, and it has the power to turn hell into heaven or heaven into hell. Life often takes unexpected turns. You must make more intentional decisions and choices whenever you face those situations. Life is just a series of choices. Just like the food you eat for breakfast shapes your body, your decisions now shape your life. We all want to make the right choices and decisions, which we all share.

 

 

I want to reduce risks and anticipate things ahead of time. That desire is, in fact, the starting point of the I Ching. Today, the giants of Ogura Koichi are also looking for answers in the I Ching. I want to share some insights from this book and mix them with my thoughts for us to consider together. Sometimes it feels like one mountain after another—you think you’ve hit rock bottom, that there’s nowhere left to fall. But often, that bottom isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning. When you feel entirely cornered, your true potential shines through. Individuals, organizations, and even nations can face unexpected challenges that, while they may lead to loss, often forge us into something more substantial, much like how hammering makes the metal more durable. The I Ching suggests that this period is one of immense hardship and growth through those struggles. Of course, if you shy away from these challenges, you’ll miss out on that growth. If you embrace the rugged path, that’s the way forward.

 

 

The results can be drastically different. One theory in crisis management that British economist and historian Arnold Toynbee liked to quote is the "eels in the bucket" effect. In Northern Europe, eels are put in the tank when transporting herring caught from the sea. This way, the herring keeps moving around to avoid being eaten by the eels, which helps them stay fresh during the journey. This concept suggests that companies need tension and motivation—like the eels—to survive tough competition. Now, think about this: what if I told you I have no struggles, no pain, no worries? If that were the case, I wouldn't be alive; I'd be like a walking dead person. But here I am, alive! So, struggles are always with us. The question becomes, how do we deal with that discomfort? Do we embrace and live with it or try to manage it? That's what we need to ponder when it comes to the hardships and pains of life.

 

 

This is something the writer Kim Hong-shin said. Maybe it's a story you've heard countless times throughout your life. But it's also something you'll continue to hear repeatedly. There are so many people who have faced their crises, navigated through them wisely, and turned those challenges into opportunities for success. Finding someone who has succeeded without experiencing hardships and crises is rare. That's right—nobody goes through life without facing challenges. Just like Kim Hong-shin said, it's a part of being alive. Even amid a life-or-death crisis, you must keep searching for a way forward to find opportunities. Just like a tree that survives fierce storms and blizzards in a rugged canyon becomes the best material for a premium violin, our lives are similar. When the compass needle wobbles, it's just trying to find the right direction. The same goes for our lives; we shake and adjust for a better path. We all know that hardships and adversities are challenging, but overcoming them sets successful people apart—this is known as AQ or Adversity Quotient.

 

 

Facing adversity and hardship, it's crucial not to easily give in to challenging situations but to make rational decisions that ultimately help you overcome crises and achieve your goals. Those with a high resilience score share some common traits. First, they don’t blame others. Second, they don’t blame themselves. Third, they believe they can get through anything. People with high resilience trust themselves and those around them, thinking they will eventually overcome any challenges. How someone reacts to the crises in front of them can vary. Some might get stuck in a never-ending struggle, while others see the same challenges as opportunities and achieve unimaginable success. Crises often make people stronger. Those strong individuals never fear hardships; they believe they will end up laughing. And in this journey, there’s support and encouragement for that faith and courage. Even when things get tough, you’ll find a way through if you keep pushing forward.

 

 

Change happens. If you can create change, it can be the driving force to overcome obstacles and achieve results. Those achievements will definitely last a long time. These days, most people use cards, but the reason people still have a desire for cash is that money allows for exchanges through economic activity. If you have money, you can trade it for things you want. However, we work every day from morning till night to earn money and want to make a lot of it, but we don’t think deeply about it. What does money mean to you? You might want to earn more than others and spend a lot of time thinking about spending it, yet the idea of questioning your relationship with money feels strange. In a capitalist society, you can't survive a moment without money. It’s so intertwined with daily life that we take it for granted, but we don’t consider its value or impact on our lives.

 

 

People often overlook this and even become slaves to money. But if you look at how and where someone spends their money, you can get a good idea of who they are. Still unsure about what you value or enjoy? Just check your credit card statements. Your eating habits, hobbies, spending attitude, reading habits, health, and relationships all reveal your thoughts, actions, and personality. Just looking at where you make purchases can give insights into your lifestyle. Of course, the definition of being wealthy varies from person to person, making it hard to pin down. You might be considered richer if you have a billion won compared to someone with 500 million, but you might also feel poor compared to someone with 1.5 billion. Even though the national income is rising, living standards are improving, and welfare is improving, the feeling of relative deprivation due to the wealth gap is stronger than ever. The world is divided between those who have money and those who don’t. Some are in a position to lend money, while others are stuck borrowing. That’s why cash keeps circulating, hence the saying. Some situations wound deeper than legal issues or disputes, especially when you realize the money you need is out of reach.

 

 

Sometimes, it feels like we have to spend more money than we have. But money is just money; it’s neither good nor bad. According to the Book of Changes, this is a time when taking losses can lead to more significant gains later on. We must shift our perspective and turn current losses into future profits. Everyone hates losing money, and you’re no different. You’d probably prefer to gain even more; if you have to give a little now, you hope to return much later. We often look down on those who can’t do this, calling them fools. People who take losses are seen as unable to handle their affairs. However, the Book of Changes suggests that those willing to take losses can achieve great success. It’s important to remember that calculating profits is just a means to survive, not the goal of life. You want to make more money, spend more time happily with loved ones, or pursue the dreams you’ve always wanted to chase.

 

That’s probably to get those opportunities, meaning money isn’t the end goal. But some people live their lives chasing after money like it’s the only thing that matters. The I Ching warns against living a life that solely revolves around money. The hand in "hand over" actually means to take a loss. When you let go of things, you make space to gain more, and what seems like a loss now will eventually come back as a benefit. That’s the idea behind it. You can buy food with money, but you can’t buy an appetite. You can buy a bed, but you can’t buy sleep. You can buy medicine, but you can’t buy health. You can buy books, but you can’t buy knowledge, and you can buy a watch, but you can’t buy time. Most importantly, you can buy a person but can’t buy their heart. So yes, even though money is something we can’t ignore in life, it’s just a means to an end, not our life’s purpose. The I Ching looks at every moment of life from both sides, paying attention to what’s in front of us and behind us. I keep saying this, but when it comes to money, it’s all about the long game.

 

 

If you develop good judgment to reduce risks and take a more specific and secure stance, it means that any losses will eventually turn into gains. In times when money is stacking up smoothly in the area, it's important to be extra cautious about the hidden dangers behind that success. First, always know your position and avoid being overly greedy; commit to whatever you take on. Second, don’t give up just because something takes a long time. Third, don’t seek profits solely for your benefit. Fourth, if you unexpectedly come into money or luck, be considerate of those around you and ask for help. The most significant danger at this point is letting your greed overshadow your goals and objectives. When you think you can buy anything with money and that anything is possible, your money might slip away. Right now, our society is in an era of excessive anger. According to the Korean Neuropsychiatric Association, 52% of adults in our country have experienced anger that’s hard to control, and a whopping 11% have experienced anger that requires treatment. Anger is one of the key issues running through Korean society, alongside social polarization and materialism.

 

 

The pressure can get intense in a world where everything feels like a competition. It's like, instead of just being hungry for success, it hurts when someone else gets ahead of you. This destructive anger can turn anyone into a perpetrator or a victim. The conflicts between different generations and genders keep getting worse, and honestly, talking about the ongoing tensions is exhausting. With social media blowing up, the spread of anger and hate has only sped up and expanded. At this point, it feels like we're living in a place filled with division and conflict. In our country, whether it's powerful companies or the government, or even between neighbours—yes, even family members—everything seems to end up in lawsuits. We’ve become a society that relies on legal battles to solve every issue. It’s not an exaggeration to say we’ve become a "lawsuit republic." Many people feel this is the only way to get justice if they've been wronged. But if you think about it, winning a lawsuit often leaves you with more scars and doesn’t fix the problem. Social lawsuits highlight our society's flaws, and change comes so slowly that it often leaves people feeling helpless.

 

 

"Cheonsusong means that 'song' refers to a lawsuit. It’s a time when disputes and conflicts are common. The idea is to let go of selfishness and remember to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Even with just two people, you can’t avoid conflict. There will always be disagreements in any society. But if everyone sticks to their opinions, finding common ground becomes difficult. If someone insists on pushing only their agenda, the outcome is pretty predictable. That’s where the important attitude of 'putting yourself in someone else’s shoes' comes into play. Looking at it from that perspective means changing your thoughts about the situation. Back in the day, the quality of land—good or bad, high or low—totally affected the yield of crops and ways of living. So, land issues were a big deal, almost a matter of life and death. But the point here is to think about things differently. In the West, there’s a saying: 'Walk a mile in someone else’s shoes.' You can’t really understand how someone feels about their shoes unless you try them on. Only those wearing the shoes know if they’re too tight, comfortable, or uncomfortable. But truly understanding what the person wearing the shoes feels is a whole different level."

 

It's not easy to truly understand others; it takes much effort. What about you? Have you ever let a slight misunderstanding spiral into something bigger, creating distance between you and someone else? Those thick knots of hurt can stick around in your life. The advice is not to take the other person's anger personally and to let go of minor words and actions. Even if you win the argument at the moment, in the end, you gain nothing. So why should we try to see things from someone else's perspective? Why avoid fights and forgive their anger? It all comes down to doing it for yourself. Choosing to forgive is important. Forgiving isn't easy, but it allows you to live in the present instead of being stuck in the past and helps you shape your future. Who is that person who filled your heart with those feelings? Please don't hold back your conflicts and anger; do it for yourself, and practice empathy and forgiveness.

 

 

"Choose wisely; the mind is where you truly reside. Within it, you can turn hell into heaven or heaven into hell. Once, a king asked his ministers to touch an elephant they had never seen before. The minister who touched its leg said it felt like a pillar. The one who touched its ear claimed it was like a huge fan. The minister who felt its tail said it resembled a snake, while the one who touched its belly thought it felt like a wall. Before knowing what an elephant was, they had limited impressions—legs like pillars, ears like fans, tails like snakes, and bellies like walls. If you only hear parts of the story, you might get confused and never grasp the whole picture, no matter how much time passes. Yes, we can talk about the same thing but mean different things. In such cases, my understanding isn’t the whole truth; the other person's view can also be valid. Yet, surprisingly often, we tend to think that only our knowledge is correct and that others are wrong. This mindset ultimately shapes your perspective."

 

 

Taking things slow can hinder your growth and success. Your mistakes, poor judgments, and the struggles that come from them don’t define your whole life; they’re just part of it, a process. Like thick, sturdy bamboo grows strong because of its joints, it doesn’t break easily. Bamboo without joints is like someone who has never faced failure. They might pause for a moment through setbacks, leaving behind signs of worry and growth that become solid parts of their life. Caterpillars bend their bodies to stretch out further and longer. You can’t grow just by reaching out. To develop more prominent, you must reflect on whether you’re doing everything right at each stage and what you can improve. It’s essential to have periods where you intentionally gather your strength. Are you bending down right now? If so, it’ll soon be time to stand tall and move forward with energy. Your moment has arrived. Those with weak minds tend to be more social because people can only choose between loneliness and emptiness. Let's talk about a book written by Schopenhauer. 

This book hits hard with some real talk, but in a way, it’s also super comforting. I’m bringing insights from Schopenhauer’s theories on happiness and life, adding my thoughts to the mix. If you’ve ever had a conversation with yourself or at least thought about who you are, today’s message will resonate with you even more. Take a moment to understand how resilient your heart is—listen until the end. I hope you’ll revisit this whenever your mind starts to waver. It’ll really empower you more than you think. Aristotle broke down what a person can possess into three categories: external wealth, the wealth of the soul, and physical wealth. Schopenhauer adds another layer, explaining that the reasons for our different fates can be divided into three parts: what makes us who we are, what we possess, and what we show to others. Today, we’re diving into these three.

 

 

I will talk about the most important thing that makes us human. If we don't have this first thing down, everything else—what we have and show others—means nothing. So, what is this essential part of being human? It's our mind. It's a deep and complex area that we can't fully understand or find clear answers to. Schopenhauer says that people with a narrow mindset, no matter how hard they try for happiness, will only see an essential, almost animalistic kind of joy and always rely on trivial distractions. Even culture doesn't elevate their narrow thinking. But the most noble and lasting enjoyment comes only from mental fulfillment. Many people know that mental strength is essential, but the problem is you can't see it or measure it. So, it's hard to grasp. Because of this, too many people...

 

 

People often overlook the power of mental strength and focus on what humans have or show to others like they're crunching numbers. But in the end, nothing will improve in life if you don't have that mental strength. For instance, some folks envy specific interesting events that others have experienced. But instead of envying the event itself, it’s better to admire that person’s ability to appreciate and describe those moments. The same event can be told in a way that’s super entertaining by one person, while another might make it sound boring. So, a foolish person might envy the poet for their writing experiences without realizing that they should admire the poet's unique insight and creativity in expressing something that might seem ordinary. In the end, as Schopenhauer said, our mental strength is the most essential thing that makes us human.

 

 

There’s a richness that comes from within. I believe that taking the time to reflect on ourselves and having meaningful conversations is what matters most. It’s about not getting distracted by unnecessary things; that inner strength helps us live our lives. A person who is self-aware can find joy in their thoughts and imagination, even when they’re alone. But someone who isn’t as aware might jump from socializing to entertainment, unable to handle the painful boredom. No matter how great things seem on the outside, if your inner world is lacking, your reality will feel lacking, too. It’s like being in a beautiful place but having bad weather or using a poor-quality camera—it just doesn’t look good. Simply put, such a person is trapped in their consciousness, living only within their mind. So, even if you try to help them, they might not truly hear you. Ultimately, everything related to humans constantly circles back to our awareness.

 

 

So, what it’s saying is that the nature of consciousness is essential. Schopenhauer makes a strong point: No matter how much luxury and pleasure surround a foolish person, it’s nothing compared to the awareness of someone like Cervantes, who wrote "Don Quixote" while struggling with a tight throat. Their inner emptiness and lack of mental richness make them want to hang out with people just like themselves. It’s a case of “birds of a feather flock together.” They might not spend much time on it, but they throw a lot of money at fleeting sensual pleasures, trying to fill that void with temporary highs, but it doesn’t work. Living like that is as foolish as a clown in a red hood, wasting life in a hopeless state. The reason for this wasted life is boredom stemming from mental emptiness. When the mind is poor, it blocks happiness in a big way, mainly through pain and boredom. This pain primarily comes from deprivation.

 

 

It all comes from a sense of lack. So, if we fix poverty and deficiency, wouldn’t things improve? Well, even if you tackle poverty and lack, if someone’s mind is empty, boredom will hit them immediately. The reason people keep struggling is that pain and boredom are like a balancing act; when one fades, the other comes creeping back. It’s like these two keep filling that space inside us alternately. The author describes the life of someone with an empty mind as a constant back-and-forth between pain and boredom, with some variation in intensity. It’s like there’s this ongoing battle within. However, the fundamental pain that comes from lack and deficiency is something we can address as humans. The author emphasizes that we shouldn’t neglect getting the things we need. For example, having a reasonable amount of wealth is essential. We shouldn’t let fear of the world stem from money issues. What’s crucial here is that while we strive to acquire external things at a decent level, we must simultaneously work on filling that inner void. If we don’t strengthen our mental resilience...

 

 

Focusing too much on superficial things can really narrow a person's perspective. If something challenges their view, they can feel completely lost and mentally drained when that happens. A nomadic lifestyle is considered one of civilization's most basic forms. Yet, we see a similar mindset in the high-end, tourist-driven lifestyle. Nomadic living stems from poverty, while travel often arises from boredom. Whether it's pain or boredom, both can dull the mind. Many people wear their inner emptiness on their faces. How about you? This inner emptiness keeps us hyper-aware of even the smallest events happening outside. Feeling empty inside, we constantly crave external stimulation to lift our spirits. So, we don’t think too hard about our choices. We waste time on meaningless tasks, and our social interactions and conversations often reflect that same lack of depth. Essentially, we chase after all sorts of social activities and entertainment mainly due to this inner void.

 

 

Many people waste their time and end up in a pretty miserable state. The only thing that really keeps us on the right path is the richness of our inner spirit. That's really important. When you're empty inside, you crave external distractions and don’t think carefully about how to spend your precious time—way more valuable than money. Ordinary folks just kill time, but mentally rich people know how to make the most of it. Those with a weak mindset are bored because their intellect and willpower don’t kick in independently. As a result, they often feel completely drained. Boredom sets in, and to deal with it, people come up with random, temporary motivations to get themselves moving. But those motivations can be inconsistent, leaving people feeling powerless again. I didn’t mean to go this deep, but Schopenhauer... well, I’m not too familiar with him.

 

 

They keep sending some really strong messages, okay? That's all good. So, how do we fill a weak mind to create a rich mental strength? You’re probably curious about that. I’m going to explain it all clearly today. First, to understand this, we need to know what kind of person has rich mental strength. As one’s mind becomes more abundant, the space for inner emptiness shrinks. Their thinking is endlessly active, and they engage with various phenomena in both their inner and outer worlds, constantly refreshing their playfulness. They’re driven to combine the power from their mind with other forces in all sorts of ways, so they hardly ever feel bored, except during tiring moments. Such people rely on high sensitivity as friends and take intense passion as the root of their lives. Their emotions are more delicate than anyone else's, so every obstacle they encounter inspires strength. Above all, their rich imagination and vitality of thought contribute significantly to all this. Therefore, these individuals seek a quiet, uncontroversial life, forming only a bit of social connection while living somewhat reclusively.

 

 

It's like this: the stronger your mind, the more you choose solitude. And it makes sense—if you have a lot going on inside you, you need less from the outside and fewer people. So, unfortunately, someone with a brilliant mind often ends up being pretty antisocial. If socializing is measured by quantity, that person might seem better off in this complicated world. But sadly, knowing a hundred fools doesn’t hold a candle to the wisdom of one lonely genius. That’s why Seneca said that every fool suffers from boredom with themselves. So, the emptier your mind, the more social you tend to be. People really can’t help but choose between loneliness and emptiness. Think about it—look around you, and you’ll probably see folks like this. You know, the ones who always say, “There’s nothing fun to do” or “Why is life so boring?” That’s precisely what Schopenhauer meant when he talked about people with empty insides constantly seeking distractions and social interaction. It’s a perfect example of that.

 

 

And more than anything, I feel this deep down in my bones—that the person with the most substantial mental strength can be okay on their own at any time. This ties in closely with the idea of self-isolation I often discuss. Whether investing, starting a side hustle, studying, taking exams, changing jobs, or getting promoted, a person makes a quantum leap when isolated. It’s not about hanging out with many people at a bar or a café. Let’s get to the most important part: how do you boost that mental strength? First, let’s look at ordinary people. They chase after all sorts of trivial things in life. But when those trivial pursuits don’t go their way, they can’t handle the pain or boredom of returning to their original state. They depend on their social circles and friends for happiness. These external factors prop up their joy in life, so the moment they lose them or feel disillusioned, their happiness crumbles.

 

In relationships like this, the focus is often outside, like only eating rich, greasy meat soup even when you know your health isn’t great. But what if someone is just a bit above average? They might, for instance, enjoy painting as a hobby or dive into subjects like botany, astronomy, or history, discovering a lot that reflects their personality. In that sense, they already have some of their focus turned inward. However, just having a simple interest in art doesn’t quite tap into creative energy, and practical studies often scratch the surface, so they can’t fully immerse themselves. They can’t dedicate themselves wholeheartedly, so they don’t become one with those subjects. On the other hand, only those with a strong creative drive can genuinely engage with the essence of things. They express their unique insights through art, literature, and philosophy, making a genuine effort. Their thoughts are rich, and they always strive for a vibrant and meaningful life, especially when there are interesting and worthwhile things to engage with.

 

 

He doesn't let outside influences affect him at all. He finds inspiration in the achievements of talented people from all eras and countries. The only person who truly understands and feels his passion is himself, so he ends up living for those accomplishments alone. Essentially, he lives for himself and seeks help from no one else. Casual bystanders only get a vague sense of who he is. The stronger his mental resilience, the more he understands Voltaire's saying: without genuine desire, there can be no true enjoyment. The more mentally tough he is, the clearer his true desires become, allowing him to fully indulge in life's pleasures. He views his routine as a means to an end, leading an intellectual life aimed at unseen goals. In this way, he immerses himself in a life of intellect. No matter what's happening around him, he finds comfort in holding onto himself. Inside, he has a more isolating element than others. They are different.

 

 

People never feel delighted with others, so they don’t see themselves as the same as everyone else. That means they don’t feel the need to follow others, but they don’t look down on them either. They believe that everyone has the potential to have the same mental strength as they do. They think that as long as they can be themselves daily, they don’t need any outside motivation. For them, happiness and unhappiness come down to one thing: can they fully realize their value and complete themselves, or are they held back from achieving their goals? That’s it. You know, it’s like this: in everything, we eventually come back to ourselves. So, no matter what happens, we should be able to find comfort in just holding onto ourselves. But if I’m holding onto myself and the world is nothing but anxiety and fear, then life gets tough. Yet, no matter how life unfolds, I can still find some comfort if I can hold onto myself properly.

 

 

How many people have outstanding mental strength? Still, we try to live that life every day, right? I feel the same way, and so do you, which is why you’re listening to this message. Instead of being dragged around by pain and boredom, we want to live a life where we feel whole, just as we are. For those who think the same, the author offers a solution: whether something good or bad happens, as long as it's not a major disaster, what really matters is how we feel about it. It's all about the type and intensity of our sensitivity. A person who can manage their sensitivity well is someone mentally strong. So, out of everything we have, a cheerful heart makes us happiest—nothing more. That’s a line that struck me. A cheerful heart! We often want to know if we have good reasons to feel satisfied, but accepting cheerfulness can be challenging.

 

 

I live my life hesitantly, right? I often worry that my serious thoughts and major concerns might get in the way of my cheerfulness. But this cheerfulness is the real key to happiness and the currency of life. The most significant help to maintaining that cheerfulness isn’t wealth; it’s health. We must strive to keep our health at its highest level so our cheerfulness shines. To do that, we should avoid excess and debauchery, manage our emotions without letting them swing too wildly, and avoid prolonged mental stress. It's important to get active daily and care for our health. Aristotle was right when he said that the essence of life is exercise. It’s a simple truth, but it’s worth repeating. However, remember that your cheerfulness isn’t solely dependent on being 100% healthy. There are plenty of people who are physically fit and still feel depressed or sad. Those feelings of sadness and depression are definitely part of being human, especially for those who are more sensitive to their emotions.

 

 

When you experience periodic cheerfulness alongside a dominant feeling of sadness, it’s crucial to understand that cheerful people know how to lift their spirits and create a joyful atmosphere just by succeeding at one thing. So, even if you excel in a field and feel sensitive and moody because of it, you should still give yourself credit for that cheerfulness that comes when the food arrives or any little thing happens. This cheerful vibe, especially when backed by good health, can really expand and grow. Schopenhauer emphasizes that if you keep pointing out your gloomy feelings and let them grow, you'll end up stuck in a rut with no way out. Your everyday life can be dull and dry if you don’t move with passion. Yet, the moment you try to move, you often face pain, which makes you hesitant and sluggish. That’s why only those with a strong enough mindset, like cheerfulness, can truly be happy. A strong mindset allows you to work consistently without suffering too much. And that's why the right words and writings about mental strength have been crucial for you up until now.

 

 

Even if you don’t bring it to me, you’ve helped me avoid pointless things and focus on what really matters. Being able to express your unique talents without interruptions is true happiness. So, how about you all? I hope these messages stick with you today and don’t bounce off like many random YouTube videos. I’ve been talking my head off because I want to make sure this resonates with you. Now, let me ask you—do you think you have a unique personality? Have you ever tried to cultivate a brilliant mind? Just having those thoughts is a success in itself. We’re all so tired of fighting against what we lack. According to the author, that struggle is just part of being human. But when that fight calms down, we’re left with an empty mind, which can also weigh us down. That’s why people say they’ve “lost their mind” or just given up. And that’s the truth.

 

 

It's a blessing. Those with a sharp mind undoubtedly enjoy the most significant benefits. When you have a mature mindset that allows you to appreciate yourself, the external circumstances around you start to work in your favour, adjusting to meet your needs. People like this don’t need to worry about outside sources because they gain better social conditions through moderation and saving. They don’t even need to cater to lowbrow tastes. So, the best and most desirable thing is for everyone to exist for themselves. As we grow older, what we inherently possess becomes much more important than how it appears to others. That's why Nietzsche says: "You are the conqueror, the one who has overcome themselves, the master of their senses." Are you the master of these things? This comes first. Can you dislike slim people and still become slim yourself? Can you envy wealthy people or think they’re obnoxious and still expect to be rich? This is what we humans possess.

 

 

I will discuss why some people get richer while others struggle. Even when someone breaks free and gets a big payday, why do so many end up back where they started? Understanding how to shift our subconscious is crucial, and I'll dive into this using Schopenhauer's insights. There’s tons of material on this in books and on YouTube, but I’ll bring in Schopenhauer’s sharp perspectives on happiness and life, mixing my thoughts for a fresh take. First, consider what people have—things we can see and own, like assets. Let’s hear what Schopenhauer says: he points out that while it’s not impossible to set a rational limit on our possessions, it’s definitely a tough challenge. Our satisfaction with what we own isn’t absolute; it’s all about comparison.

 

 

It's all about the relationship between you and your possessions. If you try to think about your belongings without considering yourself, it's like having a numerator without a denominator—meaningless. Some people don't even think about how much wealth they should have, while others clearly know what that looks like. This difference shows everyone has a perspective on how far they can go. This perspective can be a limit for some and a goal for others. But there's something important to consider here. Schopenhauer said that anything outside your line of sight—your horizon—doesn't affect you. In simpler terms, everything you want and all the actions and outcomes from them happen within your own perceived limits or goals. If you think something is beyond your limits, that’s where it stays.

 

 

Thinking about things like "That's outside my goals" can make them feel utterly irrelevant in your world. So, in reality, you won’t feel happy or frustrated by those thoughts. This is why your world feels limited. Living within constraints is often wrapped up in the term “stable life” that people like to use. But what’s the real deal? If something unfortunate happens, dealing with it can be really painful and overwhelming. Once you’ve gone through the process of handling what’s within your horizon, your pain gradually lessens until you reach a point where you don’t feel pain anymore. Scars might remain, but the joy you feel after fully processing everything doesn’t last either. You get used to that state and ignore the things that match that level. In a recent video from the show, I mentioned that the mindset to avoid the most is boredom.

 

 

When you're feeling empty inside and trying to deal with problems or get what you want, you'll soon find that boredom sets in once some of those gaps are filled. It’s the same when you start not caring about what you’ve worked hard for—boredom creeps in. People often try to revert to their previous state to eliminate this boredom. Now, reverting doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Schopenhauer mentioned this idea of reverting, but it doesn't mean returning to a lesser version of yourself before you grow. Remember, everyone has their limits and goals. So, when you grow, you're actually expanding as a person. Eventually, you reach that horizon you’ve been aiming for. If you think about it this way, it makes more sense. Let’s keep going. People naturally want to grow. This desire for more isn’t just greed; it’s a basic human instinct. Wanting more experiences and sensations and seeking out more knowledge is just a natural part of being human.

 

 

It's human nature to keep challenging ourselves and trying new things. But when that spark disappears from life, it can feel tedious, dull, and pointless. In those moments, it's like we've checked off everything within our reach, like what Schopenhauer said about owning things within our horizon. But beyond that horizon, there's a whole world we can't see, and imagining taking on challenges at a different level is tough, right? So what do most people do? They fall back into that painful state they were trying to escape. Take dieting, for example. Sure, hitting your goal weight feels great at first, but over time, that excitement fades, and you start feeling blah again. So, you end up back where you started. Why? Because there’s this urge to rechallenge yourself. It’s the same with building wealth. Having money is just a given for someone born into a wealthy family. It’s like air—without it, life feels impossible. Ironically, they often guard their wealth fiercely, like it's their lifeblood.

 

 

On the one hand, being careful and frugal, poverty might be standard for someone poor. When good fortune comes their way, it often gets seen as just a bonus for pleasure and waste rather than something essential for life. So, when that extra wealth disappears again, they can manage just fine without it, almost thinking of it as a relief from one more burden. A line from Shakespeare's Henry VI, Part 3, Act 1, Scene 3 captures this idea: "The beggar rides until the horse dies." And honestly, that’s pretty chilling. I've been in a place where I was moving through life without a care, following these patterns without even realizing it. I thought of myself as a decent person despite my struggles. If someone isn’t bothered by lacking things, it doesn’t matter how much wealth they claim to have because it doesn’t really match who they believe they are. Then, they find themselves back at square one, grappling with their true self.

 

 

We're talking about getting back to that vibe where everything clicks. Sure, in some ways, being a bit strapped for cash can push you to find ways to get by without fearing financial shortages. Some folks even see that as a virtue in our society. But if you want to build significant wealth, you’ve got to think like someone who already has it. You need a clear idea of how you’ll spend your time and money, with many choices that fit seamlessly into that wealthy mindset. And then there’s the next part that comes naturally. These days, with the economy being harsh, it’s easy to feel like everyone’s struggling. But if I want to attract more wealth, the first words that come to mind about me shouldn’t be lack or hardship. Just take a moment to think about it—your horizon might not be visible, but it’s closer than you think.

 

 

There's another side of me, whether it's my assets, career, or whatever. But are my current mindset, perspective, and choices set up for the person I want to be, or am I just stuck in who I am right now? This is super important. It's not just about pushing hard towards that goal or that number; I need to change my mindset to fit that vision. That has to come first. Can you really get fit if you hate fit people? Can I become wealthy if I envy rich folks or think they're arrogant? Some self-made people believe in destiny, while others firmly trust their ability to rise above poverty and hardship. Unlike those born into wealth, they don't often think about falling into a downward spiral. When someone's mindset is low, they can be reckless with their money, like wealthy people.

 

 

People often act against their instinct to preserve wealth, especially those who have made much money through their talents. They tend to think of their talents as fixed assets, assuming their income is just the interest from it. Because of this, they don’t hesitate to spend as much as they earn instead of saving any of it. Eventually, many of them end up in poverty. On the other hand, those who earn money through their efforts—not just relying on their talents—try to use that money to maintain and grow their wealth. That's why merchants tend to live more affluent lives than other classes. In contrast, those who don’t even make an effort or try anything and haven’t worked to create their opportunities are just wasting inherited wealth and are often looked down upon. They suffer from extreme boredom and might be happier if they were busy working hard in poverty. The ability to live comfortably without truly working for it is an unmatched privilege, and that's something that always follows humanity.

 

 

It's about breaking free from the struggles and lack that seem like an unavoidable part of being human. This liberation allows you to hone your mental strength and pursue things that aren't just about making money. When you do this, your wealth reaches its highest potential, and you become a truly free person. You can wake up every morning and say, "Today is mine." Such a person contributes to humanity's honour and repays the debts they owe to the world many times. Now, here’s the crucial part: Schopenhauer emphasizes that everything we show to others should really be for ourselves. We’re wired to care too much about how others see us, but if you think about it for a moment, you’ll realize that how others perceive you isn’t all that important for your happiness. It’s about what truly makes us who we are.

 

 

Everything about humans' two types of assets goes down in your consciousness. On the flip side, what people show to others is just a reflection of how they appear in someone else's eyes, and that takes place in the consciousness of others, not yours. Whatever happens in someone else's mind doesn’t concern you. Most people don’t realize how superficial and shallow their thoughts are, how narrow their concepts are, and how distorted their views can be. Over time, you might think of these views as no big deal. But you can’t just ignore all the opinions of others, right? So how do you decide which opinions to filter out and which ones to pay attention to? Those who seek happiness in how they appear in others’ eyes rely on a weak mental foundation. Usually, their main goal is to boost their standing through other people's opinions. If someone around you reflects this behaviour, their views about you aren’t worth your time. Don’t be afraid of such people; let their words go in one ear and out the other.

 

 

Think about it: when you realize how often other people's words can hit home, you understand that their opinions can't really influence you. So take the time to reflect on your worth and evaluate yourself properly. It's wise not to react too sensitively to flattery or hurtful opinions from others. Each of us lives within our views, not someone else's. Recognizing this simple truth can really help with happiness. Instead of stressing over how to impress others based on your looks, income, or where you live, focus on this essential truth. It may seem obvious, but it's not always easy to grasp. Understanding this is crucial for life. Still, doing what’s truly valuable can be tough. Our happiness relies on inner peace and satisfaction. So, to boost your happiness, scale back the need to show off or seek approval from others.

 

 

It's important to lower our pride, which means we need to eliminate the thorns that constantly bother us from within. But like I said before, that's not an easy task. Two kinds of seeds sprout from human nature: vanity and self-esteem. The more foolish of the two is vanity. Self-esteem is a solid belief in one's worth, while vanity is the desire to get that belief recognized by others. The stronger your vanity, the more you might be able to talk the talk, but sometimes it’s better to keep quiet. That's because people actually find it easier and more specific to get the praise they crave from others when they stay silent. Unfortunately, the biggest obstacle to having solid self-esteem is the vanity that makes people strive for others' approval. So, the only way to break free from this foolishness is to recognize it for what it is. If you manage to escape this everyday foolishness and become a new person, you'll find peace of mind and a brighter outlook, which makes you even more potent.

 

 

You'll adopt a confident attitude, and your actions will feel free and natural. A little time spent in solitude is so good for your mental stability because it allows you to step away from others' judgments and opinions, allowing you to focus on yourself. At that point, you can find a perspective that reflects who you are rather than skewed by what others think. So, isolating yourself for mental growth can help you avoid a lot of practical misfortunes that come from foolishness. Ultimately, we can pay more attention to solid assets and enjoy them without distractions. So, the takeaway today is about finding your true perspective through self-isolation. It’s about thinking and acting like you, aligned with your horizon. It's about breaking free from the moment and using your resources to realize your value. That's how you become genuinely independent, becoming the master of your own time and strength. Where do you stand in all this?

 

 

"Hey, everyone, I hope today gives you a chance to think about whether you've been living in your consciousness or just in the minds of others, chasing after their ideas. Thank you for listening so far. This is the translated version of the Hawaii Mansion, which is a famous Youtube broadcaster in Korea. His inside thoughts are so heart-touching and knowledgeable, all thanks for his contents.