“A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.” -
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Inflexibly, clinging to a single truth never works. There are always more aspects, options, angles and opposing views. Nearly nothing is B & W.
- Delayed gratification vs. living in the moment
- Living a life of purpose vs. a life of financial security
- Reducing my ego vs. embracing my ambition
- Honoring my ambition vs. the anxiety that accompanies it
I’d wager these all resonate with most of you reading this. Obviously, leaning in one direction too far has its implications. And, no: they’re not mutually exclusive.
“The best thinkers can hold two opposing views at once.” – Charlie Munger
“The mind separates, and when it draws barriers in the heart of these dualities, the barrier becomes a real one. There’s no longer porous space for breathing. Then you have dualism and things cut-off that should belong together.”
“modern-day research in developmental psychology has shown that children and adults who engage in certain kinds of mind-wandering actually display more cognitive flexibility [..]”
While the aeon.co piece is mostly about the benefits of appreciating art, to me it related to Khe Hy’s quest to holding two opposing views at once. Whether in the form of literature, rap (see below!) or abstract oil painting: exposing yourself to new concepts is key. Now, next week, in the New Year and all the years to come.
As always, thank you for reading! : )
Happy Holidays & Happy New Year from Amsterdam,
Jon
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