Tag Archives: Purpose

The Importance of the Individual

Posted on March 29, 2012 by AJ Kessler

Some interesting emails with readers about Dokkodo, and the merits of a life of service.  Service is important, no doubt, But I still put the individual first.  After all, service of any kind is, eventually, for the benefit of individuals. … Continue reading →

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3.7%

Posted on February 2, 2012 by AJ Kessler

On average, you have 78 years total to live. The first 18-25 are, hopefully, spent learning.   This leaves you with between 53 and 60 years to produce something worthwhile. Spending 2 years doing something you don’t enjoy is 3.4% … Continue reading →

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Nobody Cares About Your Happiness

Posted on January 10, 2012 by AJ Kessler

If you’re lucky, 10 people might care about your happiness.  That’s it. Some other people might care whether you show up for work.  They might care whether you perform, which means they care that you’re just happy enough not to … Continue reading →

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The Purpose Of Life

Posted on December 6, 2011 by AJ Kessler

I believe that the very purpose of life is to be happy. – Dalai Lama This quote has been dredged up again recently, floating around the internet for the last few weeks drawing criticism.  Many people, especially, it seems, minimalists, … Continue reading →

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The Idiocy of Worrying About Your Legacy

Posted on November 8, 2011 by AJ Kessler

Marcus Aurelius, the 16th Emperor of Rome, the most powerful man on earth for a time, kept a journal of thoughts and notes for himself, to keep himself grounded.  The twelve “books” worth of writings cover a broad range of … Continue reading →

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Remember What You’re Measured By

Posted on October 30, 2011 by AJ Kessler

Pointless bustling of processions, opera arias, herds of sheep and cattle, military exercises.  A bone flung to pet poodles, a little food in the fish tank.  The miserable servitude of ants, scampering of frightened mice, puppets jerked on strings. Surrounded … Continue reading →

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Why We Really Loved Steve Jobs (It Wasn’t The Toys)

Posted on October 6, 2011 by AJ Kessler

Steve Jobs was, by all accounts, an asshole.  He was an ego maniacal, contemptuous, perfectionist who screamed at and even humiliated his employees when things weren’t to his liking.  He was petty, held grudges, and went out of his way … Continue reading →

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Why Do We Do It This Way, Again?

Posted on October 1, 2011 by AJ Kessler

Two newlyweds were spending their first Christmas together.  Wanting to celebrate properly, the new wife asked her mother for the famous Christmas Ham recipe.  The husband was excited. He watched as the wife prepared to dutifully follow the recipe.  Curiously … Continue reading →

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