“The proper aim of education is to promote significant learning. It entails development. Development means successively asking broader and deeper questions regarding the relationship between oneself and the world.”
“While too much or the wrong type of anxiety (free floating) is unhealthy, a certain amount of the right type of anxiety (focused) is both necessary and useful for a well rounded life.
“One of the most interesting aspects of human decision-making is the fact that we are very often completely oblivious as to what is influencing our decisions. These influences are occurring outside of our conscious thinking and are to be found in what is called our ‘adaptive unconscious’.”
“Most anxieties can be relieved by taking specific actions. For example, a person with OCD may obsess (and therefore experience anxiety) about washing their hands. They can, however, relieve their anxiety by simply washing their hands. ‘Free floating anxieties’, on the other hand have no such remedies and are therefore the worst type of anxiety that a person can experience.”
“One of the most reliable means of reducing the amount of frustration in our lives is to train ourselves to want only that which is in our power to obtain. If we allow ourselves to want that which we are unable to obtain then we will inevitably experience frustration.”
“To every man there comes in his lifetime, that special moment when he is figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to him and fitted to his talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds him unprepared or unqualified for the work which could be his finest hour.”
“Never listen to those who suggest that your unhappiness is the fault of others. Never allow anyone to undermine your personal responsibility and autonomy.”
“One of the advantages of old age is that sensing death is near we realize that we should use the time that remains wisely. The young have no such inclination.”
“With each day it is inevitable that we will make mistakes and blunders. Learn what you can from them and then let them go. Do not let them burden you.”
“Confidence in our ability to handle challenges is the direct result of having overcome previous challenges. One way to build up that confidence is to arrange small challenges which once overcome will increase our confidence to go on dealing with greater and greater challenges.”
