Blog: Self-Improvement

Are you curious about the world around you and looking for a way to make sense of it all?

Look no further than philosophy!

Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, and our place in the world.

It can help you understand yourself and the world around you better.

In this blog post, I will explore the different branches of philosophy, the origins of philosophy and how it can benefit you in your personal and professional life.

What is Philosophy?

Philosophy is a broad field that encompasses many different areas of inquiry.

At its core, however, philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and our place in the world.

a) Metaphysics

One of the main areas of inquiry within philosophy is metaphysics, which is the branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of reality.

Metaphysics addresses questions such as:

What is the nature of the universe?

What is the relationship between mind and body?

Does free will exist?

What is the nature of time?

b) Epistemology

Another important area of philosophy is epistemology, which is the branch of philosophy that deals with knowledge.

Epistemology addresses questions such as:

What is knowledge?

How do we acquire knowledge?

What is the relationship between knowledge and belief?

How can we justify our beliefs?

c) Ethics

Ethics is another branch of philosophy which deals with the questions of morality, what is good and bad, right and wrong.

It looks at various moral theories like consequentialism, deontology, virtue ethics, and more, and addresses questions such as:

What is the nature of moral responsibility?

How should we make moral decisions?

What is the difference between right and wrong?

d) Living a Good Life

On a more general level, philosophy can also refer to a particular set of beliefs or a way of thinking about the world.

In this sense, philosophy can be understood as an approach to life, a set of guiding principles, or a perspective on the world that shapes one’s actions and decisions.

d) Other branches

There are other branches such as logic, which is the study of reasoning and argument, political philosophy which is the study of government and political systems and social philosophy which is the study of social interactions, institutions and organizations.

Philosophy is an attempt to understand the world and our place in it through reason and critical thinking.

It encourages us to question assumptions, to consider alternative perspectives, and to think deeply about important issues.

Philosophy provides tools and perspectives that can be used to understand and navigate the world and to make sense of our own experiences.

Origins of Philosophy

The origins of philosophy can be traced back to ancient Greece, specifically to the city of Miletus in Ionia, where thinkers such as Thales, Anaximander, and Anaximenes began asking questions about the nature of the universe and our place within it.

The earliest philosophers sought to understand the world and our place in it through reason and observation, rather than through tradition or religious belief.

The word “philosophy” comes from the Greek φιλοσοφία (philosophia), which is composed of two parts: “philo-” meaning “love” and “-sophia” meaning “wisdom.”

The word literally means “love of wisdom.”

Benefits of Philosophy

Philosophy is beneficial or relevant in our lives because it helps us to think critically about the world and our place in it.

It encourages us to question assumptions and to consider alternative perspectives, which can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and our relationship to the world around us.

Additionally, philosophical ideas and concepts often have real-world applications in areas such as ethics, politics, and law.

Furthermore, it teaches to make well-informed decisions, to think rationally and logically, which can benefit many aspects in one’s personal life and even in the society.

It can help to provide clarity, purpose and peace of mind for many people.

Practical Life Philosophies

There are many practical ways in which philosophy can help us live a more fulfilling life:

Stoicism: accepting whatever life brings, and focusing on what is within your control.
Existentialism: individual freedom and choice in shaping one’s own life.
Epicureanism: pursuit of simple pleasures as the most important goal in life.
Minimalism: only owning and keeping things that add value to your life.
Buddhism: living in the present moment, finding peace & happiness through mindfulness & compassion.
Humanism: reason, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge and truth.
Utilitarianism: maximizing the happiness and well-being of the greatest number of people.
Transcendentalism: ultimate reality is spiritual and transcendent, and that individuals can connect with this reality through intuition and self-reflection.
Rationalism: reason and logic in understanding the world and making decisions.
Pragmatism: truth of an idea is determined by its practicality and usefulness.

I will be doing a separate blog post on each of these philosophies, with a detailed breakdown of practical applications.

Concluding Thoughts

Philosophy may seem like an academic discipline, but it’s more than that.

It is a way of thinking, an attitude towards life and a set of principles that guide one’s actions and decisions.

Through the study of philosophy, you can learn to think critically and make better decisions, gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you, and find meaning and purpose in life.

Whether you’re trying to figure out what’s truly important in life, or just looking to improve your critical thinking skills, philosophy has something to offer.

As the saying goes, “The unexamined life is not worth living,” so dive in and start exploring the world of philosophy today!

Now that I have shared what philosophy is about, and the practical ways you can apply it in your life, which philosophy do you feel resonates the most with you?

What other useful philosophies do you apply in your life?

Let me know in the comments below.

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If you are excited to get more life hacks, also check out: “Beyond Financial Freedom: An Unofficial Guide to Living Your Best Life”

Spencer is an avid globetrotter who achieved financial freedom in his 20s, while trading & teaching across 70+ countries. As a former professional trader in private equity and proprietary funds, he has over 15 years of market experience, and has been featured on more than 20 occasions in the media.

What are Peak Experiences, and How to Get More of it in Your Life?

Have you ever had a moment in your life where you were completely immersed in an activity, feeling a sense of awe and wonder, and experiencing a deep sense of connection and fulfillment?

These intense moments of positive emotion and enlightenment are what we refer to as peak experiences, or “flow states.”

These moments can be transformative and help us feel more connected to the world around us.

In this blog post, we will explore what peak experiences are, their origins, and the benefits they offer.

We will also look at some examples of peak experiences and discuss how to incorporate them into your daily life.

What are Peak Experiences?

Peak experiences, also known as “peak moments” or “flow states,” are moments of intense psychological or emotional joy, awe, or wonder that can be accompanied by a feeling of transcendence or unity with the universe.

These experiences are often described as life-changing and may have a profound impact on an individual’s sense of self and their perception of the world around them.

During a peak experience, an individual may feel completely immersed and involved in an activity, leading to a sense of personal growth and fulfillment.

This sense of immersion is often characterized by a feeling of being completely present and focused in the moment, and may involve a sense of challenge and growth as well.

Peak experiences may be triggered by a variety of different activities and experiences, and can take many different forms.

Some people may experience peak moments through artistic or creative endeavors, while others may find them through physical activities or sports.

Still others may experience peak moments through spiritual or religious practices, or through moments of deep connection with others.

Regardless of the specific form they take, peak experiences are often described as transformative and may have a lasting impact on an individual’s sense of self and their perception of the world.

They may also contribute to a sense of purpose and meaning, and can be an important source of fulfillment and happiness.

Origins of Peak Experiences

The concept of peak experiences was first introduced by psychiatrist and humanistic psychologist Abraham Maslow in his theory of self-actualization.

Maslow was interested in understanding the psychological and spiritual growth of individuals, and he believed that peak experiences were moments of profound insight and understanding that had the potential to bring about significant personal transformation.

He described peak experiences as “sudden, dramatic, and emotionally charged,” and believed that they could provide individuals with a sense of unity, transcendence, and connection to a higher power or purpose.

Maslow’s theory of self-actualization and peak experiences has had a significant influence on the field of psychology and the study of human motivation and growth.

His ideas have been further developed and refined by other researchers and practitioners, and the concept of peak experiences has become an important topic of study in fields such as positive psychology, education, and management.

Despite some criticism and debate over the specifics of Maslow’s theory, peak experiences continue to be recognized as valuable and transformative experiences that can contribute to personal and spiritual development.

Benefits of Peak Experiences

There are many potential benefits to having peak experiences, including:

Increased creativity and problem-solving abilities
Greater feelings of happiness and well-being
Improved focus and productivity
Enhanced personal and professional growth
A sense of connection to others and the world around you

Examples of Peak Experiences

Peak experiences are intense moments of positive emotion, connection, and enlightenment that can be transformative and help individuals feel more connected to the world around them.

Some examples of peak experiences may include:

A moment of profound spiritual connection, such as during a religious ceremony or during a moment of meditation
A moment of intense emotional connection with another person, such as falling in love or having a deep conversation with a close friend or during an act of kindness
A moment of personal accomplishment, such as finishing a marathon or achieving a long-term goal
A moment of awe and wonder, such as seeing a natural wonder or experiencing something new and exciting
A moment of intense emotion, such as the birth of a child or the death of a loved one
A moment of artistic or creative inspiration, such as composing music or writing a poem
A moment of intense physical connection, such as during a dance performance or a sports event
A moment of intense focus and concentration, such as during meditation or a difficult task
A moment of intense physical sensation, such as bungee jumping or skydiving
A moment of connection with nature, such as hiking in the mountains or swimming in the ocean
A moment of intense self-discovery, such as during a retreat or therapy session
A moment of profound understanding or realization, such as when a complex problem is finally solved or a difficult concept is finally grasped

These moments can be deeply personal and may vary from person to person. They are often described as intense, life-changing, and meaningful.

How to Have More Peak Experiences

If you are looking to have more peak experiences in your life, try the following:

Identify activities that you find deeply engaging and enjoyable: Pay attention to what kinds of activities bring you a sense of flow and fulfillment, and make an effort to prioritize and incorporate these activities into your life.
Set aside dedicated time to focus on these activities without distractions: This might mean setting aside specific blocks of time to engage in your chosen activity, or finding a quiet and distraction-free environment to work in.
Seek out new challenges and experiences that stretch your abilities and encourage personal growth: To incorporate this element into your daily life, try seeking out new experiences and activities that challenge you and help you to develop new skills and knowledge. This could involve learning a new hobby or sport, taking on new responsibilities at work, or tackling a difficult problem or project.
Practice mindfulness and stay present in the moment: This might involve practicing mindfulness techniques, such as focusing on your breath or paying attention to your senses, to help you stay present and focused.
Foster a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the experiences and opportunities you have: This helps to enhance your sense of fulfillment and satisfaction, and can also contribute to a greater sense of connection to others and the world around you. Make an effort to regularly reflect on and appreciate the experiences and opportunities you have, and express gratitude to those around you who support and enable your growth and development.

It’s also important to note that peak experiences are not always easy or enjoyable in the moment.

They may involve hard work, struggle, and even failure. However, it is through these challenges that we often grow and learn the most.

Concluding Thoughts

Peak experiences, or “flow states,” are intense moments of joy, awe, and wonder that can bring about a feeling of transcendence and personal growth.

By identifying and engaging in activities that bring you fulfillment, setting aside dedicated time to focus on these activities, seeking out new challenges, practicing mindfulness, and fostering gratitude, you can incorporate peak experiences into your daily life and benefit from their transformative effects.

Now that I have shared what peak experiences are about, and the practical ways you can apply it in your life, do you think this is something you will want to make a part of your life?

Let me know in the comments below.

If you are excited to get more life hacks, also check out: “Beyond Financial Freedom: An Unofficial Guide to Living Your Best Life”

What is Minimalism? (7 Practical Ways to Apply it in Your Life!)

Minimalism is a lifestyle and philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and mindfulness in all aspects of life.

It is a rejection of the materialistic, consumerist culture that is prevalent in many Western societies, and instead emphasizes the importance of living with intention and purpose.

In this blog post, I will cover all the benefits of this life philosophy, practical ways you can apply it in your life, and how it ties in with your spiritual development.

Origins of Minimalism

The origins of minimalism can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s, when a group of artists and writers began to reject the traditional, ornate styles that were popular at the time.

These artists and writers, who included figures such as Donald Judd and Sol LeWitt, instead embraced simplicity and purity of form in their work.

This led to the development of the minimalist movement, which sought to strip away the excesses of modern life and focus on what was truly essential.

Over time, the minimalist philosophy has spread beyond the realm of art and has become a popular lifestyle choice for many people.

Today, minimalism is embraced by people from all walks of life, who are drawn to its emphasis on simplicity, mindfulness, and intentionality.

Benefits of Minimalism

There are many benefits to adopting a minimalist lifestyle.

One of the biggest benefits is the feeling of freedom and liberation that comes from decluttering and simplifying your life.

By getting rid of excess possessions and obligations, you can free yourself from the burden of constant maintenance and upkeep.

This can provide a sense of relief and liberation, and can allow you to focus on what is truly important to you.

In addition to the psychological benefits of minimalism, there are also practical benefits.

For example, living a minimalist lifestyle can save you time and money.

By getting rid of excess possessions, you can reduce the amount of time and energy you spend on cleaning, organizing, and maintaining your belongings.

This can save you time and effort, and can allow you to spend your time and money on things that are truly meaningful to you.

Another benefit of minimalism is that it can help you to live a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

By reducing your consumption and waste, you can reduce your impact on the environment and help to preserve natural resources for future generations.

This can be especially important in a world that is facing increasingly urgent environmental challenges.

How to Apply Minimalism in Your Life

If you are interested in adopting a minimalist lifestyle, there are many practical ways to do so. Here are some tips for applying minimalism in your life:

Declutter your home: One of the first steps to adopting a minimalist lifestyle is to declutter your home and get rid of excess possessions that you no longer need or use. Start by going through each room in your home and getting rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This can include clothing, furniture, appliances, and other household items.
Minimize your consumption: Another important step is to minimize your consumption and only purchase what you truly need and will use. This can involve making a shopping list and sticking to it, avoiding impulse purchases, and being selective about the products that you buy.
Be mindful of the things that you already own: In addition to minimizing your consumption, it is also important to be mindful of the things that you already own. This means taking good care of your possessions and making sure that they last as long as possible. This can involve regular maintenance and repair, as well as being selective about the products that you use to clean and care for your belongings.
Prioritize experiences over possessions: A key principle of minimalism is the idea that experiences are more important than possessions. Instead of focusing on acquiring more and more things, try to prioritize experiences that will enrich your life and provide lasting memories. This can include things like traveling, learning new skills, or spending time with loved ones.
Simplify your daily routine: Another way to apply minimalism in your life is to simplify your daily routine. This can involve reducing the number of tasks and obligations that you have, and focusing on the things that are truly important to you. For example, you might prioritize spending time with loved ones, pursuing your hobbies and passions, or taking care of your health and wellbeing. By simplifying your daily routine, you can free up more time and energy for the things that matter most to you.
Be mindful of your digital life: In today’s digital age, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the constant stream of information and distractions that are available online. To apply minimalism in your digital life, try to limit the amount of time that you spend on your devices, and be selective about the content that you consume. This can help to reduce the noise and distractions in your life, and can allow you to focus on the things that are truly important to you.
Cultivate gratitude: Another important aspect of minimalism is the practice of gratitude. By cultivating gratitude, you can shift your focus away from the things that you lack, and instead appreciate the things that you already have. This can help to reduce feelings of dissatisfaction and discontent, and can help you to feel more content and satisfied with your life.

Minimalism & Spirituality

Minimalism and spirituality are two different, but related, concepts.

Minimalism is a lifestyle and philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and mindfulness in all aspects of life.

It is a rejection of the materialistic, consumerist culture that is prevalent in many Western societies, and instead emphasizes the importance of living with intention and purpose.

On the other hand, spirituality is a broad term that refers to the human search for meaning and connection with a higher power or the transcendent.

Spirituality can be expressed in many different ways, including through religious practices, meditation, and other forms of inner exploration.

Despite their differences, minimalism and spirituality are related in several key ways.

First, both minimalism and spirituality emphasize the importance of simplicity and mindfulness.

By focusing on the present moment and letting go of distractions and distractions, both minimalism and spirituality can help us to live more fully and authentically.

Second, both minimalism and spirituality encourage us to let go of excess possessions and attachments.

By getting rid of the things that we don’t need or use, we can free ourselves from the burden of constant maintenance and upkeep.

This can provide a sense of relief and liberation, and can allow us to focus on what is truly important to us.

Finally, both minimalism and spirituality can help us to connect with something greater than ourselves.

For some people, this might be a higher power or the transcendent.

For others, it might be a sense of connection with the natural world, or with a community of like-minded individuals.

In either case, minimalism and spirituality can both provide a sense of meaning and purpose in life.

Concluding Thoughts

Overall, minimalism is a lifestyle and philosophy that emphasizes simplicity, minimalism, and mindfulness in all aspects of life.

It can provide many benefits, including a feeling of freedom and liberation, practical savings of time and money, and a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

By decluttering your home, minimizing your consumption, and being mindful of the things that you already own, you can begin to apply the principles of minimalism in your own life.

Now that I have shared what minimalism is about, and the practical ways you can apply it in your life, do you think this is a life philosophy which you will want to adopt?

For those already embracing this philosophy, what are some other ways which you have applied minimalism in your life?

Let me know in the comments below.

If you are excited to get more life hacks, also check out: “Beyond Financial Freedom: An Unofficial Guide to Living Your Best Life”

Living Your Best Life, Travel & Lifestyle

The Travelling Trader: Time to Explore Central Asia!

After 3 years of not being able to travel due to Covid, I am now ready to embark on my next adventure!

In fact, I have also sold my house, so I’m not sure how long I will be on the road. (Until property prices come back down lol)

This trip will bring my total country tally to 70+ countries, let’s see how many I can hit by the end of the year.

As per usual, I will continue to provide market updates, as long as I have an internet connection.

Let’s all build up our warchest and get ready for the big sale!

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If you are excited to get more life hacks, also check out: “Beyond Financial Freedom: An Unofficial Guide to Living Your Best Life”

Birthday Reflections Upon Turning 36

Every birthday, I like to take a day off to reflect and give thanks for the previous year, and brainstorm what I would like to focus on in the upcoming years. I like to think of it as constant realignment of my priorities in life.

Here are some things I would like to focus on for the next few years:

Continue exercising and eating healthy consistently
Spend more time on friendships and relationships
Read more about psychology, philosophy, mental models
Try some new things like cooking, Salsa, art, wine appreciation, etc
Travel more (aim for 100 countries before 40)
Embrace minimalism, to focus time and attention on things which are important
Becoming better at mindfulness, empathy, gratitude, self-esteem, and showing love & kindness
Continue to create more educational and inspiring content on my blog and various channels to help others
Find new ways/careers/volunteer work that can make a difference in people’s lives

Once again, a big thanks to everyone who has supported me all these years, and to those who have put in the extra effort to make my 36th birthday a memorable one! ?

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If you are excited to get more life hacks, also check out: “Beyond Financial Freedom: An Unofficial Guide to Living Your Best Life”