Saturday, June 15, 2024

The Way to Happiness

The Way to Happiness: Beyond Money and the Illusion of an Easy Life

Introduction: In today's society, it's all too common for people to associate happiness with an easy life filled with wealth and material possessions. This perception often leads individuals to make choices that prioritize financial success over their personal well-being, including opting to stay single. However, when we delve deeper into the true sources of happiness, we discover that it lies in different aspects of our lives. Research, including the insights gained from a nurse's observations of people's regrets at the end of their lives, sheds light on what truly matters. Let's explore why no one wishes for more money or more time in the office in their final moments.

Living a Life True to Oneself: The most common regret witnessed by the nurse was the lack of courage to live a life true to oneself, instead of succumbing to societal expectations. This regret highlights the importance of authenticity and self-expression. Choosing to follow our own dreams and passions, even if they don't align with societal norms, is crucial for finding lasting happiness.

Balancing Work and Life: The second regret on the list was working too hard. This regret reminds us that relentless pursuit of professional success at the cost of personal relationships and self-care can lead to unhappiness in the long run. While money may provide temporary satisfaction, it cannot compensate for the absence of meaningful connections and a balanced life.

Expressing Feelings and Emotions: Expressing emotions openly and honestly is an essential part of a fulfilling life. The regret of not having the courage to express feelings highlights the importance of vulnerability and communication. Suppressing emotions can create a barrier to genuine connections and hinder our overall happiness and well-being.

Nurturing Friendships: Maintaining strong relationships and staying connected with friends is vital. The regret of not staying in touch with friends reveals the significance of human connection and support networks. True happiness lies in the meaningful bonds we form with others, not in material wealth or professional achievements.

Allowing Ourselves to Be Happier: The final regret witnessed by the nurse was the failure to allow oneself to be happier. This regret emphasizes the personal responsibility we have to cultivate happiness in our lives. It reminds us that happiness is a choice, and we must actively pursue it by prioritizing our well-being, practicing gratitude, and embracing positive experiences.

If you want to keep exploring more about this topic, perhaps you should read this next article.

click here to read it

Conclusion: It's crucial to challenge the misconception that happiness solely depends on an easy life filled with money and material possessions. The insights gained from the nurse's observations of people's regrets at the end of their lives reveal that true happiness comes from living authentically, nurturing relationships, expressing emotions, and prioritizing personal well-being. By recognizing these truths, we can shift our focus away from the illusion of an easy life and instead strive for a life filled with purpose, meaningful connections, and genuine happiness.

watch on YouTube / YouKu

Article by Marcelo Gameiro
Published 01 Jul 2023

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Parents choosing a career for their kids - (choosing a major)

Choosing a major is a significant decision that can have a profound impact on a student's career and future. It's important to take the time to carefully consider different options and evaluate career prospects before making a choice.

Firstly, it's essential to explore different options and discover what interests you. Consider what subjects you enjoyed in high school, what extracurricular activities you participated in, and what hobbies you have. Think about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as your personality type, and how that might influence your choice of major.

You can also speak with academic advisors, professors, and other professionals in fields that interest you to get a better understanding of what it's like to work in those areas. Attend college fairs and information sessions, and take advantage of any resources your school offers to explore majors and careers.

When evaluating different majors, consider the potential career prospects. Look at job outlooks, salary ranges, and opportunities for advancement in the field. Some majors may have more job openings than others, while others may offer higher salaries or greater potential for growth.

It's also essential to consider your own interests and goals. While a major with high job demand and earning potential may seem attractive, if it doesn't align with your interests and passions, you may be unhappy in the long run. On the other hand, pursuing a major that aligns with your interests may lead to a more fulfilling career and a higher level of job satisfaction.

Choosing the wrong major can be a costly mistake. If you find yourself in a major that you don't enjoy, it can be challenging to stay motivated and succeed in your coursework. Moreover, you may find it difficult to secure a job in that field after graduation, which can limit your options and make it difficult to pay off student loans.

While it can be valuable to seek the advice and guidance of parents or other trusted individuals, it's important to remember that ultimately, you are the one who will be working in your chosen field. As such, it's crucial to prioritize your own interests and passions when making a decision about a major. It can be tempting to choose a major that aligns with your parents' expectations or offers a higher earning potential, but if you don't enjoy the work, you may find yourself unhappy and unfulfilled. Taking the time to consider your own goals and desires can lead to a more rewarding and satisfying career in the long run. Ultimately, it's your life and your future, so make the decision that feels right for you.

I was very fortunate to have parents that let me choose to do what I wanted, ultimately because it would be me who would have to work in that field. After taking their insights into consideration I believe I did make a good choice.

In conclusion, choosing the right major is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. It's important to explore different options, evaluate career prospects, and consider your own interests and goals before making a choice. Taking the time to make an informed decision can lead to a more fulfilling career and a happier life.

Saturday, June 1, 2024

Visit to "Shaolin Temple" in 17/07/2023

Yesterday, I had an amazing day with my new friend Zigang Li. Our paths crossed just a week ago when I was strolling on campus, and after a brief introduction, he extended a kind invitation to visit the renowned Shaolin Temple together. We agreed to embark on this adventure on the following Saturday, which was yesterday.

We set off at 8:00 am, filled with anticipation for the day ahead, and returned at 10:00 pm, thoroughly immersed in a memorable experience. Our excursion went beyond merely visiting the temple; we also ventured into the scenic mountains surrounding it. As night fell, we were treated to a captivating spectacle called the "Shaolin Zen Music Ritual", an enchanting outdoor show illuminated by mesmerizing light effects.

I must say, Chinese people never cease to amaze me. A week ago, I had just met Zigang Li, and now it feels as if we have been old friends, enjoying wonderful activities together. Last week was undoubtedly a delightful time for me, although it left me feeling exhausted upon returning home. Nonetheless, every moment was absolutely worth it. Due to my limited knowledge of the local language, I rarely venture out to explore places on my own. Instead, I rely on the kindness of students or chance encounters like the one I had with Zigang Li.

Zigang proved to be an excellent guide, introducing me to numerous exceptional dining establishments. As a foreigner, it would take a lifetime to discover the best eateries in the area, even if I had all the wealth to afford the finest services. However, with Zigang's guidance, I was able to have a truly remarkable culinary experience. We began our day with breakfast at a charming local soup store. The establishment exuded a cozy atmosphere, bustling with locals enjoying their morning meals. The soup, accompanied by freshly baked bread, was simply divine, explaining the crowded nature of the place.

I am immensely grateful to my new friend Zigang for making my day truly special. I captured countless photographs to preserve and cherish the memories we created together. These moments will undoubtedly hold a cherished place in my heart for years to come.

Watch on: YouTube / Youku

More information on this book

Saturday, May 25, 2024

My prediction becomes true

My prophecy has come to fruition, and it's an easily predictable one that anyone could foresee. You don't need to be a genius to anticipate what I'm about to reveal. Now, let me assure you that out of the 18 classes I teach, the majority are nothing like the one I'm about to describe. Brace yourself for a story that begins with a dire warning and may not end well.

At the start of the semester, I had a premonition that the students in this particular class were destined to fail. My prediction was based on their lackadaisical approach to assignments and attendance. Now, as the semester draws to a close, I would have to be exceptionally forgiving not to fail a significant number of them. As you can see from the final results, some have indeed failed.

Notice: lot of missing attendance, homework and assignments.

I've been teaching in China for approximately five years, and up until this past year, I never had to fail a single student. While it's not uncommon to encounter students with low grades, I never had to resort to failing anyone—until now, unfortunately.

What I'm witnessing here is the genesis of a tale that may have a grim outcome, echoing the prediction I made earlier. In this particular class, students frequently skip my lessons, arrive late, and disappear during break time, never to return. They come to class without their books and show no interest in paying attention. When I call them out on their behavior, they find it amusing and pretend not to understand me. It seems they carry this lackadaisical attitude into their other classes as well.

Today marked their final exam, and it came as no surprise when I caught several of them cheating, caught on video no less. Part of the exam required them to record a video for the evaluation of their pronunciation. As you might suspect, the videos contained suspicious elements, such as covering their mouths while speaking or obscuring their faces, making it impossible for me to discern what was really going on (perhaps someone else speaking on their behalf). Considering the way they conducted themselves in my class, were you surprised by their actions during the final exam?

While I did manage to catch some cheaters with irrefutable evidence, I believe many will evade punishment. However, here's the kicker—those who got away with it will face severe consequences later in life. That's my next prediction for them, and I'm sure those reading this article would concur. It's not a particularly difficult prediction to make, and unless they alter their current path, it will likely come true.

I have taught some truly inspirational classes, and now I'm here, hoping to reach even more students on the same path. I want to convey the message that there is still time to change directions. No one is perfect, and they can all strive for improvement. I hope to inspire some of them to make a change. If not, they will inevitably confront the consequences I predicted, sooner or later...

To end this article on a positive note, I want to share something wonderful that happened to me yesterday. One of my former students reached out to me for help with an assignment at the company she currently works for. I remember her vividly because she was an exceptional student—always sitting in the front, actively participating in class, and displaying a genuine thirst for knowledge. As you might have guessed, she achieved a good grade in my class. And if I were to ask you to predict her future, based on what I just shared, you would likely anticipate great success. It seems that is precisely what's happening now, as she's working for a prominent company in Beijing. This brings me immense joy!

Given her dedication as a student, I can only imagine what a committed employee she must be. She is responsible, intelligent, and possesses excellent English skills.

Now a more extreme example, but it is a good example of what can start small and progress to bigger and worse situations in life if someone lead a wrong direction in life

Watch on YouTube

Saturday, May 18, 2024

Rejected

Rejection, though often painful and disheartening, is an inevitable part of life. Whether it's being turned down for a job, facing a romantic rejection, or experiencing a setback in pursuing your dreams, rejection can leave you feeling discouraged and questioning your abilities. However, rejection should not be seen as a roadblock but rather as a stepping stone towards personal growth and eventual success. In this article, we will explore the significance of rejection in our lives and provide examples of individuals who turned their rejections into catalysts for remarkable achievements.

Rejection as a Learning Opportunity:

Rejection serves as a valuable learning opportunity, allowing us to identify areas for improvement and refine our skills. Each rejection offers a chance to reflect on our strengths and weaknesses, helping us to develop resilience and perseverance. By embracing rejection and seeking constructive feedback, we can gain valuable insights that ultimately propel us closer to our goals.

Example: J.K. Rowling

Renowned author J.K. Rowling faced rejection from numerous publishers before Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone was finally accepted. Despite receiving multiple rejections, Rowling persisted in pursuing her dream, and her determination paid off. Today, the Harry Potter series has sold over 500 million copies worldwide and has been adapted into a highly successful film franchise.

Rejection as Motivation:

Rejection can serve as a powerful motivator to prove doubters wrong and exceed expectations. It fuels a fire within us, igniting a desire to push beyond our comfort zones and work even harder towards achieving our goals. By channeling the energy from rejection into determination, we can transform setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Example: Walt Disney

Walt Disney, the legendary creator of Mickey Mouse and the Disney empire, faced numerous rejections and failures throughout his career. He was told he lacked creativity and that his ideas would never succeed. However, Disney persisted, using rejection as motivation to refine his craft. Today, the Walt Disney Company stands as a global entertainment powerhouse, thanks to his perseverance and refusal to be deterred by rejection.

Rejection as an Opportunity for Self-Reflection:

Rejection forces us to introspect and reassess our goals and aspirations. It encourages us to explore new paths, discover hidden talents, and uncover alternative routes to success. By embracing rejection and remaining open-minded, we can unlock opportunities we might never have considered otherwise.

Example: Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey, a media mogul and philanthropist, faced numerous rejections and obstacles throughout her career. Despite experiencing setbacks, she leveraged rejection as an opportunity for self-reflection. Winfrey shifted her focus from broadcasting to hosting her own talk show, which became wildly successful. Today, she is one of the most influential and powerful women in the world, known for her inspiring achievements and resilience in the face of rejection.

Conclusion:

Rejection may sting in the moment, but it is an integral part of the journey towards achieving our goals. By reframing rejection as a learning opportunity, a source of motivation, and a chance for self-reflection, we can harness its transformative power. Embracing rejection allows us to build resilience, refine our skills, and uncover new paths towards success. So, the next time you face rejection, remember that it is not the end of the road but a stepping stone towards your dreams.

I talked about rejection today, so let me share a recent one, and also let me say, it happens all the time, just get used to it and move on…

I did try to make a new friend at the canteen today as I always do, after chatting a little bit I did find out one student were majoring in IT and the other in Math, since I did teach “How to teach Math” before I did offer the course for FREE for the student here on my website. We agree that as soon I get back home I would send the course to her, but for that I needed her e-mail and name to create an account for her in my website and give her the access to the course, and this is what happen: (her answer: NO THANK YOU!!)

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Celebrating Achievements: Graduation.

Title: Celebrating Achievements: Graduation Ceremonies and Parties as Gateways to Precious Memories

with students in China (2023)

Introduction: Graduation marks a significant milestone in one's academic journey, signifying the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and growth. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and the creation of memories that will be cherished for a lifetime. Both graduation ceremonies and parties provide a unique opportunity to commemorate achievements, bond with loved ones, and serve as reminders of past victories, motivating us to strive for future success.

The Importance of Graduation Ceremonies: Graduation ceremonies hold a special place in our hearts. They symbolize the official recognition of our accomplishments and serve as a collective moment of pride for graduates, their families, and friends. Stepping onto the stage, donning the traditional cap and gown, and receiving that hard-earned diploma are experiences that create lasting memories. The solemnity of the occasion, the speeches filled with wisdom and inspiration, and the presence of fellow graduates foster a sense of camaraderie and unity, reinforcing the shared journey toward academic success.

Capturing the Essence of Graduation Parties: While graduation ceremonies evoke a sense of formality, graduation parties provide a joyful and lively atmosphere for celebrating this remarkable milestone. Parties offer an opportunity to mingle, relax, and revel in the achievements alongside friends and family. From the laughter-filled conversations to the congratulatory toasts, these gatherings create an ambiance of festivity that serves as the backdrop for creating cherished memories. Whether it's a small intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the collective joy and support expressed during graduation parties strengthen our sense of accomplishment and remind us of the people who have contributed to our success.

The Power of Memories: Memories have a profound impact on our lives. They serve as reminders of who we are, where we come from, and what we have achieved. The memories we make during graduation ceremonies and parties hold a special place in our personal narratives. They allow us to relive the excitement, pride, and joy of the moment, even years down the line. Memories have the power to transport us back in time, reigniting the emotions and motivation we felt during those pivotal moments. They remind us that we have conquered challenges before, serving as a driving force to propel us forward in future endeavors.

My graduation from Londrina State University (UEL) - 1994

The Role of Memories in Impelling Future Success: By relishing the memories of graduation ceremonies and parties, we gain an invaluable perspective on our capabilities and achievements. They remind us that we are capable of overcoming obstacles, and they reinforce the belief that we have what it takes to succeed in the face of future challenges. Memories of celebrating with loved ones, the encouragement received, and the pride witnessed can serve as a wellspring of motivation during times of doubt or hardship. They instill within us a sense of resilience and determination, urging us to continue striving for excellence.

my MBA graduation in Salt Lake City - 1999

Conclusion: Graduation ceremonies and parties provide the perfect platform to celebrate our academic achievements and create cherished memories. They serve as reminders of our past victories and propel us toward future success. By relishing these moments and treasuring the memories they create, we tap into a well of inspiration and confidence, knowing that we have the strength and ability to overcome any future obstacles. So, let us revel in the joy, embrace the camaraderie, and commemorate our achievements, for these memories are precious treasures that will guide us on our path to greatness.

As a teacher in china I got invitations to graduation parties. (watch in YouTube)

Another Graduation Party (watch in YouTube video1 / video2)

Links

Saturday, June 15, 2024