NARA'S NOTEPAD
VOLUME 22
NOVEMBER 2025
NUMBER 11
Friday, October 31, 2025
HOW TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF?
As anyone who has ever tried to keep a New Year's
resolution will tell you, motivating yourself to get something done is not
always very easy. When the time comes to put the resolution into effect, we
forget, or we decide that we have more important things to do, or we are in the
wrong mood.
The principal reason for this is that, if we fail
to create in ourselves an emotional response to the idea of achieving what we
decide to work for, we are setting ourselves up to fail.
One famous life coach often helps people to give up
smoking, but because he has a high reputation, he likes to stack the odds in
his own favor. In other words he filters out potential clients who lack the
necessary motivation, since he knows that they are unlikely to succeed.
How does he do this? Simple. He asks each potential
client to give him three reasons or benefits for giving up smoking. If they
cannot give him three reasons, he tells them to go away and not to return until
they have thought of three.
Now I don't believe that there is any magic in the
figure three, but statistically, the more reasons you can think of to justify
your decision, the more likely you are to have your emotions aroused by the
thought of success.
Suppose you think of several good reasons for your
New Year's resolution. Does this guarantee that you will have the right level
of motivation? Not in the least. After all, the clients of the life coach
mentioned above are being coached by him and he will work on raising their
motivation. He is merely concerned to ensure that he has the raw material (the
three reasons) to work on.
But if we can guess the sort of method he might use
on his clients to raise their motivation, could we not use the same method to
motivate ourselves? Absolutely.
So let's look at the most likely method.
Visualization
The most useful way to motivate ourselves is to visualize
success. Think of any goal that you would like to achieve, the bigger and the
more attractive the better. Perhaps it involves retiring to an idyllic island,
taking a vacation in an exotic location, climbing a mountain, or buying a
super-car. Perhaps it is already in reach. Perhaps it isn't.
Now, choose a place and a moment when you can relax
and not be interrupted. You need only a few minutes. Begin by reflecting on the
reasons or advantages that achieving your goal will bring you. Then close your
eyes and imagine that you have achieved that goal.
How does it feel? What do you see? What does it
sound like? If people are speaking, what are they saying? Does your goal have a
particular taste? Immerse yourself in this imagined reality for a minute or
two, concentrating also on the advantages or reasons that you have already
identified. Tell yourself how blessed you are to have achieved your goal.
After a few minutes, open your eyes and note how
good you feel. Ask yourself if you now feel motivated to pursue that goal,
however hard it may be to achieve it. I shall be surprised if you don't.
The trouble is that motivation doesn't last
forever. It can gradually subside and disappear over time. Even a few hours are
enough. You know how good an idea seems when you are lying in bed, but how you
no longer think so when morning and reality dawns? That is an example of how
motivation can degrade.
So the advice I give you is to set aside a few
minutes each day to revisit your goal in your imagination, preferably at the
same time each day, so that you establish a routine. Relax again and close your
eyes, and repeat the immersion of yourself into that desired position where you
have already achieved your goal and are enjoying the fruits of it.
Planning
Unfortunately, it isn't enough to build motivation
unless we use it to make plans and to put those plans into effect. A good way
to do this is to brainstorm all the steps that you will need to take to achieve
your goal. Then put them into the order in which you will need to tackle them.
In some cases, you may be able to see parallel chains of steps that may be
tackled more or less at the same time. Whatever the steps are, they will all
have the effect of gradually putting you nearer and nearer to achieving your
goal.
Now, be ambitious and set a date when you hope to
achieve the goal. Work back down the chain of steps, giving a date for each
one. If you were over-ambitious, you will find that you do not have enough time
to achieve the goal by the date that you have set. No problem, just set back
all the dates by the same number of days, weeks or months.
Action
Enter all the steps in a diary or on an Action Plan
that you draw up specifically for the purpose. It is a good idea to put such an
Action Plan up on the wall, where you can see it as a reminder of the project.
Now make sure that you read your Action Plan or diary every day, so that you
are reminded to carry out the steps as they fall due. If possible, aim to take
some action to move you nearer to your goal each day, no matter how small that
action may be. - Stuart
Nelson
WOMEN IN SCIENCE
Women have made significant contributions to
science throughout history, but they have often been overlooked or not given
the recognition they deserve. Despite this, many women have persisted and
achieved great success in various fields of science. Here are some examples of
notable women in science.
1.
Marie Curie: Marie Curie was a Polish physicist and chemist who is known
for her ground breaking work on radioactivity. She was the first woman to win a
Nobel Prize and the first person to win two Nobel Prizes in different fields.
(Chemistry in 1903 and Physics 1911).
2.
Rosalind Franklin: Rosalind Franklin was a British biophysicist who is best
known for her work on X-ray crystallography. Her research played a crucial role
in the discovery of the structure of DNA, but she was not fully credited for
her contributions until after her death.
3.
Mae C. Jemison: Mae C. Jemison is an American physician and astronaut who
became the first African American woman to travel to space in 1992. Before
becoming an astronaut, she conducted medical research and worked as a general
practice physician.
4.
Chien – Shiung Wu: Chien – Shiung Wu was a Chinese-American experimental
physicist who is known for her work on nuclear beta decays. Her experiments
helped to disprove the law of conservation of parity and led to advances in the
understanding of nuclear physics.
5.
Ada Lovelace: Ada Lovelace was a British mathematician and writer who is
often considered the world’s first computer programmer. She worked with Charles
Babbage on his proposed mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical
Engine, and wrote an algorithm for it that is considered to be the first
computer program.
These women and many others have made significant
contributions to science and helped to break down barriers for future
generations of female scientists. While there is still a long way to go in
terms of achieving gender equality in science, these women serve as inspiring
role models and proof that women are capable of making significant
contributions to the field.
MORE WOMEN IN THE WORLD OF SCIENCE
How
to get more women in the field of science? Some suggestions are provided here:
- Encourage girls from
early age: It is essential to
encourage girls from an early age to pursue STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, & Mathematics) related fields. Parents, teachers, and
society must introduce and highlight the importance and opportunities of
science and technology to girls.
- Ensure gender
equality: Gender equality
should be promoted in schools and work places to encourage women to pursue
STEM careers. Female students must be provided with the same
opportunities, facilities, and support as male students.
- Provide role-models: Women role models in STEM must be promoted
and highlighted so that girls and women can be inspired.
- Create supportive
environments: Universities and
companies must create appropriate environments and supportive systems for
women in science. Women should be given equal opportunities, support, and
recognition and their work should be acknowledged in the industry.
- Challenge stereotypes: Stereotypes about gender roles and ability
must the challenged. Both girls and boys should be introduced to the idea
that science and math are not male dominated subjects.
- Expand STEM education: Governments should help to ensure that STEM
is an essential part of education and curriculum in schools at all levels.
It will create awareness and interest in the subjects and inspire more
girls to opt for STEM careers.
TO QUOTE
One of
the most expensive things you could ever do is pay attention to the people. –
Henry Cloud
Nothing
moves unless something moves. – Albert Einstein
Save
money for emergencies. – Chanakya
Nature
does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished – Lao Tzu
There is
one way to avoid criticism; do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing. - Aristotle
The funniest story told about a
South Korean President is no doubt the tale of Kim Young Sam's meeting with
U.S. President Bill Clinton. As the story goes, Kim spoke little English and
worried about embarrassing himself during the pre-meeting photo-op. His aides
tried to coach him. They practiced lines: Kim would say, "How are
you?" Clinton would surely answer "Fine" and no doubt politely
return the question. All Kim had to say was, "Me too." Then the pair
could head off and speak in private, through interpreters.
What happened, the story
continues, is that, when the presidents finally
met, Kim got confused and said, "Who are you?" Clinton, figuring his
counterpart was joking, teasingly bantered back: "I'm Hillary's
husband."
Kim, who had learned at least one of his lines, confidently retorted: "Me
too…”
LINES I LIKED
Ø By making a positive difference in the lives of others and contributing
to the world around us, we can create a lasting impact beyond our lifetimes.
Ø By integrating different viewpoints new perspectives will emerge that in
turn will result in more creativity.
Ø By acknowledging the good in your life, you begin to shift your focus
from challenges to possibilities.
By speaking less, you allow your words to carry
more weight.
Meet you next month –2025
Professor A. Narayanan, Ph. D., FISPP
SEND YOUR COMMENTS TO:
E-mail: arumugakannu@gmail.com
Ph: 0422 4393017 Mobile: 75399 15614
(NARA’S
NOTEPAD)
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
BRILLIANCE IS WITHIN US ALL
This statement speaks to the innate potential, creativity, and intelligence that lies in every individual, regardless of background or circumstance. While brilliance is often equated with extraordinary achievements or high intellect, in its deeper sense, it refers to the unique spark or capacity each person possesses to shine in their own domain. Let’s explore this idea more fully, drawing on examples from different fields and perspectives.
1. Innate Potential
and Diverse Forms of Brilliance
Brilliance doesn’t manifest in only one way. It is not confined to
academic excellence or artistic genius – it can be seen in empathy, innovation,
resilience, leadership, or craftsmanship. Human potential is multifaceted.
Example: Temple Grandin, a professor
of animal science who is also autistic, revolutionized livestock handling
systems not despite her condition, but partly because of it. Her different way
of thinking enabled her to understand animal behavior in unique ways. Her
brilliance was not traditional, but deeply impactful.
2. Education and
Opportunity as catalyst
While brilliance may be inherent, it often needs nurturing. Access to
education, exposure to ideas, and encouragement help it bloom. Many individuals
only discover their capabilities when given a chance to explore and grow.
Example: Consider Malala Yousafzai,
who, even in the face of violent opposition, fought for girl’s education. Her
intellectual courage and clarity of purpose demonstrated brilliance forged
adversity, and nurtured by her father’s support and a belied in justice.
3. Everyday
Brilliance
Not all brilliance makes headlines. Often it’s found in everyday acts of
creativity, problem solving, and kindness. A teacher who inspires reluctant
learners, a mechanic who innovates a more efficient repair method, or a mother
managing household on limited resources – all reflect forms of brilliance.
Example: A local entrepreneur in a small
town who starts a recycling business from discarded materials is showing
environmental awareness, creativity, and leadership – an unheralded brilliance
that contributes to the community.
4. Overcoming
Brilliance
The belief in universal brilliance also implies that systemic barriers – a lack of ability – often present people from achieving their full potential. Social inequalities, discrimination, or poverty can obscure someone’s inner light.
Example: Frederick Douglass, born into slavery, taught himself to read and write. His brilliance as an orator ultimately influenced American history. His story underscores how brilliance can emerge, even in oppressive circumstances
5. Personal Discovery and Late Bloomers
Some people uncover their gifts later in life, proving that brilliance
is not confined to youth or early success.
Example: Grandma Mosses began painting in her seventies and became an acclaimed artist. Her story shows that talent can lie dormant for years, waiting for the right moment to surface.
6. The role of Belief and Self-Realization
Brilliance if often unlocked by belief – either from others or from
within. When people are encouraged to trust their voice, take risks, and
express themselves, they discover capacities they didn’t know they had.
Example: Albert Einstein famously struggled in the traditional school system. His teachers saw
him as a poor student. Yet he revolutionized physics. His story suggests that
when brilliance doesn’t conform to expected patterns, it can be misunderstood
or overlooked.
Conclusion
To say
“brilliance is within us all” is to affirm the dignity and capability of every
human being. It challenges narrow definitions of intelligence and success and
invites us to look deeper – at ourselves and others – with appreciation and
patience. The light within may burn quietly or dazzle the world, but it exists.
Recognizing and nurturing it – in ourselves and those around us – is both a
personal and social responsibility.
SMALL THINGS TO IMPROVE YOUR LIFE
1. Compliment
people more often.
2.
Pick up a
crafty hobby.
3.
Start to
learn a language that you’ve always wanted to speak.
4.
Watch
movies, documentaries, shows, read, write etc.
5.
Start a
blog.
6.
Write essays
on whatever interests you at the moment.
7.
Workout,
stretch, go for walk.
8.
Decorate and
rearrange your room until it feels likes you.
9.
Journal and
write about your day, dreams, and ideas.
10.
Reach out to
your friends more often.
THE POWER OF MONEY
Money is one of the most powerful forces in
human society, shaping economies, influencing behavior, and determining access
to resources and opportunities. Its power extends far beyond its physical form,
as it represents value, security, and influence. While money can be a tool for
positive change, it also has the potential to create inequality, corruption,
and ethical dilemmas. Understanding the power of money requires examining its
role in individual lives, social structures, and global systems.
At the individual level, money provides
the means to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. It offers
a sense of security and freedom, enabling people to pursue education, hobbies
and personal goals. Studies in psychology and behavioral economics show that
money can significantly impact well-being, but only up to a certain point.
Research by Daniel Hahnemann and Angus Deaton found the emotional well-being
increases with income until about $75,000 per year (in the U.S.), after which
the correlation diminishes. This suggests that while money can alleviate stress
and improve quality of life, it does not guarantee happiness or fulfillment
beyond a certain threshold.
Money also holds immense social power. It
influences status, relationships and access to opportunities. In many
societies, wealth is equated with success, those with financial resources often
enjoy greater social influence and respect. However, this dynamic can
perpetuate inequality, as those without money may face systemic barriers to
education, employment, and upward mobility. The power of money to divide is
evident in the growing wealth gap between the richest and poorest populations
worldwide.
On border scale, money drives economies
and shapes political systems. It fuels innovation, funds infrastructure, and
supports public services. Yet its concentration in the hands of a few can lead
to corruption and the erosion of democratic institutions. Wealthy individuals
and corporations often wield disproportionate influence over governments,
shaping policies to their advantages. This phenomenon known as plutocracy,
undermines fairness and can exacerbate social and economic disparities.
Globally, money is a key determinant of
power among nations. Wealthier countries dominate international trade, set
global agendas, and exert influence through financial system, governed by
institutions like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, often
reflects the interests of the wealthiest nations, leaving developing countries
at a disadvantage. This imbalance perpetuates cycles of poverty and dependency.
Despite its potential for harm, money
can also be a force for good. Philanthropy, for example, has funded
groundbreaking scientific research, supported education, and addressed global challenges like
poverty and disease. Social enterprises and impact investing demonstrate how
money can be used to generate both financial returns and positive social outcomes.
THE SCIENCE OF WELL BEING
The science of well-being
is an interdisciplinary field that explores the factors contributing to human
happiness, life satisfaction, and overall mental and physical health. Rooted in
psychology, neuroscience, sociology, and even economics, this field seeks to
understand what makes life meaningful and how individuals can cultivate a sense
of fulfillment. Over the past few decades, research in this area has shifted
from focusing solely on treating mental illness to proactively promoting
well-being and resilience.
One of the foundational
concept in the science of well-being is the distinction between hedonistic and
eudemonic well-being. Hedonistic well-being refers to the pursuit of pleasure and
the avoidance of pain, often measured through subjective happiness and life
satisfaction. Eu-demonic well-being, on the other hand, emphasizes living in
accordance with one’s true self, pursuing meaningful goals, and realizing one’s
potential. Both dimensions are critical for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Neuro-scientific research has also shed light on the biological underpinnings of well-being. Studies suggest that activities like meditation, exercise, and acts of kindness can boost the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of happiness and reward. Additionally, practices like mindfulness have been shown to reduce activity in the amygdala, the brain region responsible for stress and fear responses, while enhancing connectivity in the prefrontal cortex, which is linked to emotional regulation. Another critical aspect of well-being is the concept of resilience – the ability to bounce back from adversity. Research indicates that resilience is not an innate trait but a skill that can be developed through practices like cognitive re-framing, building social support networks, and fostering a growth mindset. These strategies help individuals navigate challenges and maintain well-being even in difficult circumstances.
The science of well-being
also emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors. Regular physical activity,
a balanced diet, and
adequate sleep are foundational to both mental and physical health.
Additionally, studies highlight the value of spending time in nature, engaging
in creative activities, and practicing gratitude as ways to enhance well-being.
TO QUOTE
Why complain about yesterday, when you can make better
tomorrow by making the most of today. – Anonymous
Humans are amazing, but only as amazing as every other
creature. – Sir David Attenborough
Thinking is difficult, that’s why most people judge. –
Carl Jung
JUST TO LAUGH
What do computers like to eat? – Chips.
How do trees get on the internet? – They log in.
What is a computer’s sign of old age? – Loss of memory.
How does a boy cell phone propose to his girlfriend? – He gives her a ring, of course.
LINES I LIKED
Ø Celebrations strengthen internal community bonds.
Ø Certainty in the midst of uncertainty brings stability.
Ø Challenge all your assumptions.
Ø Change current trends with new ideas.
Ø Change is an inescapable part of life.
Ø Capture moments of simple perfection.
Ø Challenge is what drives us to turn dreams into reality.
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