One science book, one mindset book,
and one classic read. Have fun.
Everything develops with information and it comes in all shapes and sizes. Our emotions, our ideas, our thoughts, our actions are all forms of information. The experience we gain from these different types of information is like a feedback loop. Not feeling happy? Not feeling fulfilled? You're gonna need better information. Start with books. Books will give you loads of data. They'll help you order your mind.
It's how growth occurs.
Feed the beast with these books...
I love a good time travel movie. Or book. And I don't really care too much about the time travel vehicle that pops our heroes from one time period to another time period. It's ok. Just tell me a good story. But don't use a hot tub and a Russian energy drink. That's not science-ie enough for me.
This book is a good story. That may not be the first thing you think of when you pick up a science book but the writing here is beautiful. Rovelli combines cutting edge science, philosophy, and adds a dash of poetry to time.
And he's efficient. Not a page or word wasted. It's short. It's thought provoking. It'll change the way you view time and how you experience it.
Time is relative to each individual. We can buy it, sell it, waste it. Smoke it? Naw. But it may be a commodity. Or it may be nothing at all?
The more we delve into the topic of time, and question it, the less we seem to understand it. Does it even exist? These are questions that have been asked since Plato tried to figure out the universe. The more we learn about our universe, and physics, the more elusive time becomes.
Highlights from the book:
The Illusion of Time: At the most fundamental level of physics, time may be considered an illusion. As Rovelli points out, "in the elementary laws that describe the mechanism of the world, there is no such difference" between past and future (hence our fascination with time travel).
Time Arises from Variables and Perspective: Time is not a fundamental component of the universe, but rather a property that "arises from a set of variables, and a special perspective." It is a complex interplay of structures, rather than a singular, universal concept. (It sounds dizzying. But the book simplifies it's message. Remember complex science and philosophy mixed with poetry. But you will be all tingly. You will question everything.)
The Arrow of Time and Entropy: The only indication of an "arrow of time" in the basic laws of physics stems from the second law of thermodynamics, which dictates that entropy always increases (read my article in Medium on entropy and why everything falls apart). This leads to a perception of before and after, even if time itself is not a concrete reality.
Time and Human Mortality: Rovelli concludes his work with a reflection on "time's milestone: mortality," emphasizing the profound link between our comprehension of time and our finite existence. Yes, back to entropy and how order turns to chaos time and time again.
Bonus Science: The Gene: An Intimate History by Siddhartha Mukherjee - This is a lot more science-ie nut an interesting and timely read.
This is a multi-million copy seller for a reason.
You're not smart, or stupid, or destined to repeat the sins of your parents. Your abilities are not fixed. Your intelligence is not tied to your IQ or schooling or upbringing. They can be developed through work, perseverance, and the willingness to accept and embrace challenges and failures. This is the 'growth' mindset as described and detailed by author Carol Dweck, Ph.D.
I know this sounds like the worse kind of self-help, pull-yourself-up-by-your-bootstraps pablum but it's backed by science. The book is filled with examples She defines it. She gives you the benefits of a growth mindset. She shows you how to achieve it. It's quick and simple in theory but oh, so difficult to achieve.
Benefits are:
Enhanced Performance and Achievement: Research indicates that individuals who embrace a growth mindset tend to surpass those with a fixed mindset by being more open to tackling demanding tasks and persevering through challenges. You try more. You fail more. You succeed more.
Improved Relationships and Interpersonal Skills: A growth mindset can have a positive influence on personal connections, encouraging qualities such as empathy, flexibility, and a readiness to cooperate and learn from others. Facing challenges leads to appreciation for yourself and others. We don't move forward alone.
Increased Resilience and Adaptability: By regarding obstacles as chances for personal development, individuals with a growth mindset are better prepared to navigate life's highs and lows, and are less likely to be discouraged by setbacks. And less likely to freak out. Maybe not at the beginning but at least once you've had your nose bloodied a time or two.
Seek out feedback especially negative feedback. It creates growth. It opens a path forward. Growth is attained by placing your self in challenging situations that scare you. Growth is not achieved by doing the 9 - 5 lifestyle that society slams 99% of its inhabitants into.
Get out of the Lazy Boy.
Bonus Philosphy: The Art of Focus: Find Meaning, Reinvent Yourself, and Create Your Ideal Future by Dan Koe - This is a little philosophy, a little science, a little kick-in-the-pants. If you're searching you may find the answers here. Includes a great list of references that include books, YouTube channels, pdf's, and podcast. Lots of way to up your self-education ante.
Yes, it's long. It has way too many complicated Russian names and nick names. It can ramble a little but it may also be the best novel ever written.
It's a philosophical treatment of the existence of God. If God is just and loving why is there so much suffering? Why does he gives us free will? It only leads to pain? Doesn't it? These existential questions will feel familiar to all humans. Which is the brilliance of this novel.
It's also a murder mystery. And a legal thriller. Murder. Suicide. Sex. Three brothers - really four - and a father, Fyodor who loves nothing better than getting drunk and chasing women of all ages. Dmitri is passionate, impulsive, and quick to anger. Ivan is an atheist, an intellectual, and the first to call bullshit on the issues of the day. Alyosha is the youngest, working on becoming a monk, full of compassion and seeking a spiritual life.
All are attracted and repulsed and disgusted by their father.
There is a lot of push and pull in this novel. No one is sure of themselves. There is no clear cut path to redemption. There are no right and wrong decisions. Only consequences. Which also may not be good or evil either.
If you only read one classic novel during your life time this is the one. Enjoy.
Bonus Classic: The Call of the Wild by Jack London - believe it or not both explore similar themes. It's civilization vs. the wild urges inside of all living creatures to survive and thrive at any cost. It's good vs. evil. But which is which? Plus, it may be the best survival guide for junior high school ever written. It's a short, fast, fun read with one of the most unforgettable villains in literature (The man in the Red Sweater ).
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