That Courage to Act

Ben Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve during the financial meltdown years, has written his memoirs. The New York Times in its review of the book says, “Bernanke’s memoir is called The Courage to Act - a title that may be ironic because, although he generally chose to act in most of the crisis he faced, it would have required an equal amount of courage, or even more, not to.”

#MyLearning
Actions carry relevance and pertinence when done at the right time & at the right place. May I have the courage to be proactive in the deserving moments of life situations.

Pic: biz shift-trends.com

Setting Life Goals

Economist and political scientist Joseph Schumpeter, who popularized the term "creative destruction" in economics, claimed that he had set himself three goals in life: to be the greatest economist in the world, to be the best horseman in all of Austria and the greatest lover in all of Vienna. He said he had reached two of his goals, but he never said which two,although he is reported to have said that there were too many fine horsemen in Austria for him to succeed in all his aspirations.

#MyLearning
Our life goals should be a healthy mix of aspirational professional and personal goals. Working toward becoming the best in each can be fun and deeply satisfying - and never mind that we may fail to achieve one or two of our goals - the fun lies in the journey!

Picture source: engineering. com

Living Life Authentcally

Their chests were to be digitally tattooed in post production so they had to shave their chest hair. While others in the cola campaign ad agreed, cricketer Sehwag did so only after some coaxing. After the shoot, while others rushed to the monitor to reflect on their performance or their looks, Sehwag just swaggered away unconcerned,  once the director yelled cut.
Because frankly, as with his batting style, he didn't give a damn.

#MyLearning
How unmindful can I be of societal, familial and peer pressure in being my authentic self?

The Truth of Intention

He treats his music room like a mosque & visitors have to keep their footwear outside. He prays five times a day, which leaves him with “no time for smoking, drinking or fornication.” That was ace composer A.R. Rahman speaking in the television documentary Jai Ho, based on his musical journey. He explained how an intention coming from purity and love  can make any music appeal to people,  irrespective of their cultures, nationalities or geographies.

#MyLearning
The truth of my intention should be seen like a beacon of light - clear, direct and of unmistakable integrity. Can I honestly do it?