Posted on by Max Herrera

The Power of Disciplined Thinking

In his timeless work The Conquest of Happiness, Bertrand Russell offers profound insights into how we can navigate life’s troubles and cultivate a sense of inner peace. One of his key ideas is that the wise person thinks about their troubles only when there is a purpose in doing so. This simple yet transformative principle has the power to enhance both our happiness and our efficiency. In a world that often feels overwhelming, this advice serves as a guide to living a more intentional and fulfilling life. I especially like this quote:

“The wise man thinks about his troubles only when there is some purpose in doing so; at other times he thinks about other things, or, if it is night, about nothing at all. I do not mean to suggest that at a great crisis, for example, when ruin is imminent, or when a man has reason to suspect that his wife is deceiving him, it is possible, except to a few exceptionally disciplined minds, to shut out the trouble at moments when nothing can be done about it. But it is quite possible to shut out the ordinary troubles of ordinary days, except while they have to be dealt with. It is amazing how much both happiness and efficiency can be increased by the cultivation of an orderly mind, which thinks about a matter adequately at the right time rather than inadequately at all times. When a difficult or worrying decision has to be reached, as soon as all the data are available, give the matter your best thought and make your decision; having made the decision, do not revise it unless some new fact comes to your knowledge. Nothing is so exhausting as indecision, and nothing is so futile.”

At the heart of Russell’s philosophy is the notion that we should not allow our minds to be consumed by worries at all times. Instead, we should reserve our mental energy for moments when we can actually address our problems. Cultivating an orderly mind for happiness and efficiency doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties or pretending they don’t exist. Rather, it means recognizing that dwelling on troubles when no action can be taken is not only unproductive but also detrimental to our well-being. By training ourselves to think about problems only when necessary, we free our minds to focus on the present moment and the things that bring us joy.

Russell acknowledges that there are exceptional circumstances—such as an impending crisis or a deeply personal betrayal—where it is nearly impossible to shut out troubling thoughts. In these moments, only those with extraordinary mental discipline can maintain their composure. However, for the majority of our everyday challenges, we have the capacity to control how much mental space we give them. The key is to develop what Russell calls an orderly mind, one that addresses issues deliberately and at the appropriate time, rather than allowing them to dominate our thoughts incessantly.

An orderly mind is not something we are born with; it is cultivated through practice and self-awareness. One way to develop this quality is by setting aside specific times to address our concerns. For example, if you’re facing a difficult decision, gather all the necessary information, dedicate a focused period to thinking it through, and then make your choice. Once the decision is made, resist the urge to revisit it unless new information arises. This approach not only reduces mental clutter but also prevents the exhaustion that comes from constant indecision.

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Posted on by Max Herrera

Hyper-Empathy as a Strength

Previously, I talked about the Hyper-Empathy Syndrome. In short, Hyper-empathy Syndrome is a term used to describe a condition where an individual experiences an unusually intense level of empathy, often to the point where it becomes overwhelming or disruptive to their daily life. People with hyper-empathy are highly attuned to the emotions, pain, and experiences of others, sometimes to the extent that they feel others’ emotions as if they were their own. This heightened sensitivity can lead to emotional exhaustion, difficulty setting boundaries, and challenges in maintaining their own well-being.

If you or someone you know struggles with hyper-empathy, remember that it’s okay to seek help and prioritize your own well-being. Empathy is a gift, but it’s important to care for yourself as much as you care for others. 

Key Characteristics of Hyper-Empathy Syndrome

  1. Intense Emotional Absorption: Individuals with hyper-empathy may deeply internalize the emotions of others, feeling joy, sadness, or pain as if it were their own.
  2. Difficulty Distinguishing Between Self and Others: They may struggle to separate their own feelings from those of others, leading to emotional confusion or overload.
  3. Overwhelming Compassion: They often feel compelled to help or fix others’ problems, even at the expense of their own needs.
  4. Emotional Exhaustion: Constantly absorbing others’ emotions can lead to burnout, anxiety, or depression.
  5. Boundary Challenges: People with hyper-empathy may find it hard to say no or set limits, as they fear causing distress to others.

Causes of Hyper-Empathy

While the exact causes are not fully understood, hyper-empathy may be linked to:

  • Neurological Factors: Some research suggests that hyper-empathy may be related to heightened activity in brain regions associated with emotional processing, such as the mirror neuron system.
  • Psychological Factors: Trauma, childhood experiences, or certain personality traits (e.g., high sensitivity) may contribute to the development of hyper-empathy.
  • Conditions Like Autism or ADHD: Some individuals with autism (particularly those formerly diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome) or ADHD may experience hyper-empathy as part of their neurodivergence.

Challenges of Hyper-Empathy

  1. Emotional Overload: Constantly feeling others’ emotions can be draining and overwhelming.
  2. Neglect of Self-Care: Individuals may prioritize others’ needs over their own, leading to physical and emotional neglect.
  3. Difficulty in Relationships: Hyper-empathy can create imbalances in relationships, as the individual may struggle to assert their own needs or boundaries.
  4. Guilt and Anxiety: They may feel guilty for not being able to help everyone or anxious about others’ well-being.

Managing Hyper-Empathy

While hyper-empathy can be challenging, it can also be a gift when managed effectively. Here are some strategies for coping:

  1. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and establish limits to protect your emotional energy.
  2. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize activities that recharge you, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature.
  3. Develop Emotional Detachment: Practice mindfulness or grounding techniques to help distinguish between your emotions and those of others.
  4. Seek Support: Talk to a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate your emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
  5. Channel Empathy Positively: Use your empathy in constructive ways, such as volunteering or advocating for causes you care about, without overextending yourself.

Hyper-Empathy as a Strength

While hyper-empathy can be overwhelming, it also has its positives. Highly empathetic individuals are often compassionate, intuitive, and skilled at understanding others’ perspectives. When balanced with self-care and boundaries, hyper-empathy can be a powerful tool for building meaningful connections and making a positive impact on the world.

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Posted on by Max Herrera

On Unrealized Dreams

An unrealized dream is a goal, aspiration, or vision that someone has not yet achieved or brought to fruition. It represents something deeply desired—a personal, professional, or creative ambition—that remains incomplete or unfulfilled. Unrealized dreams can range from small, personal goals (like learning a new skill) to grand, life-changing ambitions (like starting a business, writing a book, or making a significant impact on the world).

Key Characteristics of an Unrealized Dream

  1. Emotional Significance: Unrealized dreams are often tied to strong emotions, such as passion, hope, or longing. They reflect what truly matters to a person.
  2. Potential for Growth: These dreams often push individuals out of their comfort zones, encouraging personal development and resilience.
  3. Tension Between Reality and Aspiration: Unrealized dreams highlight the gap between where a person is and where they want to be, creating a sense of motivation or, at times, frustration.
  4. Timelessness: Some dreams remain unrealized for years or even a lifetime, yet they continue to inspire and drive individuals forward.

Examples of Unrealized Dreams

  • A musician who dreams of recording an album but hasn’t yet found the resources or time.
  • An entrepreneur who envisions building a successful startup but is still in the planning stages.
  • A traveler who longs to visit every continent but has only explored a few so far.
  • A writer who has a novel in their mind but hasn’t yet put it to paper.

Why Are Unrealized Dreams Important?

  1. They Inspire Action: Unrealized dreams motivate people to set goals, take risks, and work toward something meaningful.
  2. They Reflect Identity: Dreams often reveal a person’s values, passions, and sense of purpose.
  3. They Encourage Resilience: The pursuit of a dream, even if unrealized, builds character and teaches valuable lessons.
  4. They Connect Us to Others: Sharing dreams fosters empathy and understanding, as most people have aspirations they haven’t yet achieved.

The Journey Matters

While the term “unrealized dream” might sound negative, it’s important to recognize that the process of pursuing a dream is often as valuable as achieving it. The journey teaches patience, perseverance, and creativity. Even if a dream remains unrealized, the effort put into it can lead to unexpected opportunities, growth, and fulfillment.

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A healthy world

Here I’ll share some practical tips that anyone can adopt to help combat global pollution. These simple yet impactful actions can make a significant difference in our fight against climate change and rising contamination levels. Let’s explore how small changes in our daily lives can contribute to a cleaner, healthier planet!

Climate Change

  • Replace conventional and old light bulbs: With this simple task we’re freeing our planet of 68 kilograms of CO2 per year. The option of saving bulbs or bulbs of low flow cares for the environment (and also cares for our pockets).
  • Use the car less: I recommend going more for cycling, public transport or walking to help protect the environment (and our health). By not using the car we avoid half kilogram of CO2 per mile of journey. The overuse of the automobile encouraged to make new roads and such decision caused a great impact on the territory and destroyed beautiful landscapes, and in addition to that there is more traffic noise, which causes more stress for those living near such noise.
  • Recycle more: By recycling we will save more than one ton of CO2 yearly. But recycling is not the answer, here the question is: how to avoid generating all that waste?, i.e., we should buy only what we really need and keep out of the levels of consumerism. Further, when choosing our goods we should prefer the ones with less packaging and pick reusable bags for our purchases. At the time of purchasing beverages is better to buy glass bottles because they are easier to recycle and they do not use the amounts of fuels as requiered for plastic and paper (besides, production of paper and plastic releases many chemicals into the air, rivers and seas).
  • Examine the tires of your car: In this issue we recommend keeping tires inflated to the corresponding pressure since taking into account this recommendation saves fuel combustion in a 3%. Each gallon of gasoline less implies 9 kilograms of CO2 less reaching the atmosphere. And it should be emphasized that it is recommended to use the car only when necessary.
  • Use less hot water: To warm the water uses too much energy, especially in the winter time because the environment is colder than normal. The same is recommended to wash clothes using cold water as it would save about 230 kilograms of CO2. It is also important to use water that is needed in such tasks as washing the car, washing dishes etc. And remember not to leave water valves open.
  • Avoid using too much packaged products: You can save 545 kilograms of CO2 if you avoid generation of 10% of garbage. This helps to a great extent because if we create a culture to choose products with less packaging producers make products with less packaging and thus avoid much of pollution.
  • Set the thermostat on the car properly: to set two degrees higher in winter and lower it 2 in summer, you can save 900 kilograms of CO2 with this simple adjustment in a year. You should not use the heater where it is not necessary because the car engine will make more effort and will burn more fuel.
  • Plant a tree: this recommendation is important because every tree in its lifetime absorbs about one ton of carbon dioxide. I recommend watering at night or when the sun is hidden because the tree would absorb more water since it is not evaporated by the sun.
  • Turn off electronic devices: Turning off the TV, Bluray, stereo, and computers when not in use can save thousands of kilos of carbon dioxide a year. There is no need to have the TV on when nobody is watching it.

Water

Consume the really needed amount of water. Avoid unnecessary water costs with these tips:

  • Do not leave the tap running while you brush your teeth or shave.
  • Do not wash the foods with the tap open; use a container. Upon completion, this water can be used for watering plants.
  • Do not use any soap under running water.
  • Use the washing machine and dishwasher only when they’re fully loaded.
  • Do not throw sticks, paper, cigarette butts, sanitary towels, tampons or condoms. Put them in a garbage basket.
  • Repair leaks immediately. 10 drops of water per minute represent 2,000 liters of water a year wasted.
  • Use native plants that require less care and less water.
  • Reuse as much water as you can. Reused water is fine for bathrooms, cleaning floors, or washing the front of your home.
  • Do not empty the tank without a real reason to do it .
  • Do not throw the oil sinks. They float on water and are very difficult to remove.
  • Do not throw any garbage into the sea, rivers or lakes.
  • Water gardens and streets with potable water.
  • The best time to water is late afternoon as it prevents evaporation.
  • Gel, shampoo and detergents are not environmentally friendly. They should be used sparingly and where possible choose organic products.
  • Do not forget to plant a tree at least once in your life.
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Posted on by Max Herrera

A Few Thoughts on Procrastination

Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing tasks, often leading to feelings of guilt and anxiety. It often stems from fear of failure, perfectionism, or a lack of motivation. For instance, a student might delay starting their project because they’re worried it won’t meet their own high standards, which can create a cycle of anxiety and avoidance. This tendency not only affects productivity but can also erode self-esteem and increase stress levels.

To overcome procrastination, one effective strategy is to break tasks into smaller, manageable parts. For example, instead of tackling a whole research paper at once, a student could focus on writing one paragraph or even just conducting some preliminary research. Setting specific, achievable goals can make a daunting task feel less overwhelming. Additionally, using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique—working for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break—can help maintain focus and reduce the temptation to procrastinate.

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Setting Accessible Goals

Setting accessible goals is a mandatory requirement to achieve our dreams, victories, and even to emotionally satisfy and promote social development. Undoubtedly, we have to focus our efforts and energy in order to fuel our projects and turn them into a successful reality. In practice, however, we should avoid dispersing our energy through several dreams at once. Instead, what we have to do is to choose one or two dreams and focus all our energy and resources solely on them. Obviously, this simple advice is dictated by common sense, but it is also a fact which is often completely overlooked, leading to a great waste of dynamical, physical, mental and economic energy.

accessible goals

Another important tip is to understand that some dreams can come true immediately while others do not. Setting and following accessible goals determine, firstly, that the happiest people are precisely those which set achievable goals. A small goal is conquered in less time and produces a little happiness. As time goes by, many small goals form a great result that produces an enormous happiness.

In summary:

  1. To achieve a goal, first we have find in ourselves the will to achieve that goal.
  2. Goals must be accessible and realistic.
  3. A goal is realistic and accessible and when we have the possibility to conquer it.
  4. A goal is unaccessible when it is beyond our actual capabilities.
  5. The best way to conquer a goal is to divide it into small steps of increasing difficulty.
  6. People who divide their goals into small steps move forward faster than those that set goals which prove to be too high.
  7. If a person set unaccessible goals, he will probably fail, and will start doubting himself, giving up about such project and perhaps he will not try again.
  8. Every person needs to set goals which allow him to move forward, learn, grow and succeed.

Think about these simple facts before setting and redefining your goals 🙂 Also, visualize your goals.

Posted on by Max Herrera

7 key aspects to produce high-quality content

If your work is related to or focused on production of content-rich material, such as articles, books, movies, web sites, educative software applications, and so on, please pay special attention to the following key aspects to guarantee the high quality of your deliverable:

  1. Fragmentation: Fragmentation is a current problem in knowledge. It occurs because knowledge is separated in isolated parts, sometimes with very strict boundaries, and the audience of your work might end up grasping only little parts of the knowledge base embedded in your work, missing the crucial interconnections between concepts and ideas, and also missing the interdisciplinary content. Fragmentation in knowledge can significantly hinder the effectiveness of content delivery. For instance, consider a blog post about climate change that discusses only the scientific data without incorporating social, economic, or political perspectives. Readers might grasp the statistics but miss critical insights on how climate change affects vulnerable communities or the policies needed for mitigation. By connecting these disparate threads, you not only enrich the content but also foster a holistic understanding, encouraging readers to engage more deeply with the material. This interconnected approach can spark curiosity and motivate them to explore further, leading to a more informed and active audience. To combat fragmentation, it’s essential to present knowledge in a cohesive manner that highlights relationships between concepts. Utilize techniques such as storytelling, analogies, or visual aids that clarify complex ideas and demonstrate their relevance to everyday life. For example, a piece on technology’s impact on education could weave in personal narratives from teachers and students, illustrating how tools like online platforms enhance learning experiences. By creating a narrative that bridges various disciplines (like psychology, sociology, and technology) you not only make the content more relatable but also empower your audience to see the bigger picture, thereby nurturing their intrinsic motivation to learn and explore further. Sometimes, your audience might not receive your message at all. Your aim should raising your audience self-motivation (rather than being externally motivated.) Self-motivation is at the core of creativity, responsability, and lasting and true change. Your audience must have a genuine interest for your work and the knowledge it includes. For achieving this, structure your work properly: guide your audience through a well-defined structure, which integrates your audience with the reality, starting from the most basic concepts, notions and ideas, and gradually rising the level of interconnection among them.
  2. Communicational Approach: This comprises aspects such as the pedagogical philosophy of your production, your reader or user’s motivation, and the employment of graphics or multimedia resources according with the pedagogical philosophy and the topics developed. The question you should answer here is: Are you using the best approach and resources for communicating your ideas? The communicational approach plays a pivotal role in how effectively your ideas resonate with your audience. For instance, if your content targets a younger demographic, incorporating interactive multimedia elements (like quizzes, polls, or short videos) can enhance engagement and cater to their learning preferences. This strategy aligns with active learning principles, encouraging readers to not just consume information but actively participate in the learning process. A blog post about mental health awareness could benefit from infographics that illustrate statistics and personal stories, making the topic more relatable and memorable. By considering the pedagogical philosophy behind your content, you can tailor your approach to foster genuine connections with your audience. Moreover, understanding your readers’ motivations can further refine your communicational strategy. For example, if your audience is primarily driven by a desire to improve their professional skills, providing practical tips, case studies, and real-world applications will resonate more effectively than theoretical discussions. Additionally, leveraging varied resources, such as podcasts for auditory learners or downloadable templates for kinesthetic learners, can cater to diverse preferences. When crafting a piece on productivity hacks, including short audio clips of expert interviews or downloadable worksheets can significantly enhance the reader’s experience. A well-thought-out communicational approach not only delivers information but also inspires action, making your content more impactful and memorable.
  3. Language, Grammar and Style: This aspect covers all the things related to grammar, ortography, definitions, localization and format. Language, Grammar, and Style are foundational elements that can make or break the quality of your content. Proper grammar and spelling not only reflect professionalism but also enhance clarity, allowing your audience to engage with your message without distractions. A well-edited article that uses correct terminology and punctuation will come across as credible and trustworthy, while a piece riddled with errors may lead readers to question the validity of the information presented. Furthermore, consistent formatting, such as uniform headings, bullet points, and font choices, helps guide readers through the content, making it easier for them to digest complex ideas. Localization is another crucial component that can significantly impact the effectiveness of your communication. Tailoring your language to fit the cultural context and preferences of your target audience can enhance relatability and comprehension. Using regional idioms or expressions can foster a sense of connection, while avoiding jargon or overly technical language ensures accessibility. If you’re writing about technology for a global audience, consider providing glossary sections or explanations for terms that may not be universally understood. Paying close attention to language, grammar, and style not only elevates the quality of your content but also ensures that your message resonates with and is accessible to your intended readers.
  4. Aesthetics: It includes all the details related with the application’s aesthetics, the way content is organized and displayed, and the user interface (if any.) Nowadays, aesthetics of content -rich productions is very, very important. Aesthetics play a crucial role in how content is perceived and consumed by users. A visually appealing design not only captures attention but also enhances the overall user experience. For example, an educational app that presents information through a clean layout, harmonious color schemes, and engaging visuals can significantly improve user retention and interaction. Consider an online learning platform that uses bright, inviting colors along with intuitive navigation; this setup helps users feel more comfortable and motivated to explore various courses. Conversely, cluttered designs or poor visual choices can easily overwhelm users, leading them to disengage and seek out more aesthetically pleasing alternatives. Moreover, the organization and display of content directly influence how effectively information is communicated. Using consistent headings, subheadings, and visual hierarchies helps guide users through the material, making it easier for them to locate and understand key points. Prioritizing aesthetics not only makes your content more inviting but also enhances usability, ensuring that your audience can easily navigate and absorb the information presented.
  5. Evaluation: It refers to the mechanisms employed by you and your reviewers in order to verify the results. Your work doesn’t end when you submit or publish your material. On the contrary, posterior reviewing and evaluation of your work is an important step, a needed feedback for corrections, improvements and future work. Evaluation is a critical aspect of any creative endeavor, as it ensures that the quality of the work meets established standards and effectively communicates the intended message. This process involves systematic review mechanisms, where both the creator and external reviewers assess various elements of the content, including accuracy, coherence, and relevance. Engaging in thorough evaluations allows for identifying areas that may require clarification or enhancement, thereby reinforcing the credibility and effectiveness of the final product. It’s essential to view feedback as a constructive tool rather than a critique, fostering an environment where continuous improvement is prioritized. Evaluation serves as a foundation for future projects and iterations. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of previous work, creators can make informed decisions about their approach in subsequent endeavors. This iterative process not only promotes growth and development but also helps in refining skills and understanding audience preferences. Additionally, establishing a culture of feedback among peers and stakeholders can lead to collaborative learning experiences, enriching the overall quality of the work produced. Ongoing evaluation is not merely a final step: it’s an integral part of the creative lifecycle that drives innovation and excellence.
  6. Internal Aspects: It comprises all the functions invisible for the user, related to security, legal issues, data backup, fault-tolerance, among other internal aspects. Internal aspects are the backbone of any application or content creation process, ensuring that everything functions smoothly behind the scenes. Security, for instance, is paramount in protecting user data and maintaining trust. This involves implementing robust encryption methods, secure authentication protocols, and regular security audits to safeguard against potential breaches. Legal considerations also play a significant role, as compliance with regulations such as GDPR or copyright laws is essential to avoid penalties and foster responsible content sharing. These internal mechanisms, while often invisible to users, are critical in shaping their overall experience and confidence in the platform. In addition to security and legal issues, other internal aspects such as data backup and fault tolerance are vital for maintaining operational integrity. Regular data backups ensure that valuable content is preserved and can be restored in case of unforeseen events, such as system failures or data corruption. Fault tolerance mechanisms, on the other hand, are designed to keep the application running smoothly even in the face of errors or crashes. This includes redundant systems and failover strategies that allow for seamless transitions should a problem arise.
  7. Content: Last, but not least, the content. It’s related to the information presented by your work, and also the goals of the project. Focus on relevant content, be careful of too verbose layouts, and use pertinent, state-of-the-art knowledge references. Content is the heart of any project, serving as the primary medium through which ideas, information, and narratives are conveyed. It’s essential to ensure that the content aligns with the overall goals of the project while resonating with the target audience. Striking the right balance between informative and engaging material is crucial: content should be relevant and purposeful, avoiding unnecessary verbosity that can dilute the message. A clear focus on the subject matter not only enhances readability but also encourages the audience to connect with the material on a deeper level. To produce high-quality content, it’s important to prioritize clarity and conciseness. Start by outlining the key messages or objectives you want to communicate, ensuring each section serves a specific purpose related to those goals. Additionally, adopting a tone that suits the audience (whether formal, conversational, or technical) can enhance engagement and understanding. It’s also beneficial to incorporate state-of-the-art knowledge references, ensuring that your content is grounded in credible research and contemporary insights, which can bolster its authority and relevance. Furthermore, the iterative nature of content creation should not be overlooked. Regularly reviewing and updating content in response to new information or shifting audience needs can significantly enhance its value. Seeking feedback from peers or industry experts can provide invaluable perspectives, allowing you to refine your work further.

Keeping an eye on these aspects will allow your work to be more solid and safe from fragmentation.

Posted on by Max Herrera

Innovation: A Path to Personal Growth

Herman Melville said: “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation“. I totally agree. Let’s try. Let’s pursue innovation and originality. Most of time, our inner fears lie in failure… the fear to fail. In itself, fear is not that bad. It reminds us of dangers and the possibility of losses, and motivates us to think our actions carefully. But fear should be controlled. Fear should not paralyze us. I’ll try that idea in which I believe. I believe in myself, in my ideas, and thereby, I’ll pursue my goals, my projects. The process of trying is, already, our first reward. Let’s enjoy it.

At the core of innovation lies the courage to challenge the status quo, to question established norms, and to push the boundaries of what is deemed possible. It is a mindset that embraces experimentation, embraces risk-taking, and embraces the unknown, recognizing that true progress is often born out of stepping beyond the confines of familiarity. When individuals embrace innovation in their lives, they open themselves up to a world of endless possibilities, where creativity flourishes and new horizons beckon.

One of the greatest obstacles to innovation is the fear of failure. Our inner fears often manifest as doubts and hesitations, whispering cautionary tales of potential setbacks and disappointments. However, it is essential to understand that failure is not the end but rather a stepping stone on the path to success. Embracing failure as a natural part of the innovation process allows individuals to learn, adapt, and grow, gaining valuable insights that pave the way for future breakthroughs.

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A Simple Guide to Completing Your Academic Degree

Achieving an academic degree is a significant milestone that opens doors to a world of opportunities and personal growth. The journey towards completing a degree is filled with challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons that shape your academic and professional future. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the importance of attaining a university degree, strategies to overcome challenges, staying motivated, learning to learn effectively, writing a thesis or pursuing an internship, prioritizing relaxation and well-being, and embracing the transformative experience of university studies.

A Simple Guide to Completing Your Academic Degree

Importance of Achieving an Academic Degree
Earning an academic degree is a transformative experience that equips you with knowledge, skills, and credentials essential for career advancement and personal development. A degree not only enhances your job prospects and earning potential but also fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and lifelong learning habits. By completing a university degree, you demonstrate dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence, setting a solid foundation for future success in your chosen field.

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Posted on by Max Herrera

Visualizing your Goals

A goal is a very specific result that we want to achieve in a precise, future time. It’s an experience not yet lived, although firmly wished. Let’s recall from our first post about goals, that an objective or goal is a personal or perhaps organizational desired end point in development. It is usually endeavored to be reached in finite time by setting deadlines. Albeit goals, dreams and expectations are related concepts, there are important differences that will be discussed further on. As it often occurs with dreams, there are virtually no limits on the number of goals we may set, since goals represent, in essence, states or things that we wish to achieve in the future. Unlike dreams, though, goals require that we define them precisely, and we have to work for them in the present time, right now. Thereby, goals are nearer, within reach.

visualizing goals

Goals and Expectations

We should not confuse goals and expectations. Goals are the concrete and positive result of a fulfilled wish, and they provide satisfaction and success. On its side, expectations are focused on the behavior that we expect from other people. Setting a goal also means directing all our efforts towards achieving the goal, combining several tasks in order to attain it. However, to have an expectation reduces to delegating our wishes to the lucky concurrence of external factors.

Therefore, setting goals helps us to empower strategies, to create effectivity and to dominate the process of achieving whatever thing we wish. Besides, our goals create new opportunities, and improve our capacity for overcoming obstacles and conquering unexpected hurdles. As we move forward and reach the little goals that we had set, we also have the feeling of walking our paths faster, with a boosted self-confidence and a diminishing desire to return to the past. By the way, when we feel little or no desire to return to the past, we can be sure that we have improved as human beings.

Goals and Dreams

As aforesaid, a difference between goals and dreams lies in the time required for reaching them. Goals are closer. Besides, motivation also establishes a notorious difference between goals and dreams. We have more immediate and realistic motivations for reaching goals. On the contrary, dreams’ motivation is typically diffuse, sometimes very unclear.

However, dreams are the ultimate fuel of life, no matter how fuzzy they may be. As life moves on, we will feel the dream, approach the dream, dream the dream… we will be continuously reshaping the dream. Dreams are, after all, made of a very malleable matter. In life, we walk towards the sun, and our sun is composed of just dreams. Every step toward such sun kills a doubt. And each of such steps is a goal.

Organizing our Goals

We have to prepare a few lists for visualizing our goals and, in general, our action and thinking paths. When we write down our goals in a list, we are defining and outlining a plan to reach the goals. We are committing ourselves to fulfilling them based on practical aspects. On the contrary, the list of dreams contains relatively remote possibilities, excepting perhaps the first or second dream. In order to reach the first dream of the list, we have to conquer a chain of goals. In short, goals are the intermediate steps required for achieving the ultimate objective of your life.

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