Monday, June 30, 2025

NARA'S NOTEPAD

VOLUME 22

JULY 2025

NUMBER 7

 


NARA'S NOTEPAD IS SUPPORTED BY READERS LIKE YOU

 


ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU’RE UNIQUE, JUST LIKE EVERYONE ELSE

THE ART OF ATTENTION

 


Attention is the ability to actively process specific information in the environment while tuning out other details. It is a vital skill that allows us to learn new things, solve problems, and survive in a complex world. However, attention is not a simple or static phenomenon. It is influenced by many factors and has various effects on our perception and memory. In this essay, I will explore the different types of attention, the factors that affect attention, and the effects of attention on perception and memory. I will also provide some suggestions on how to improve attention in different situations.

One of the aspects of attention is the type of attention that we use in different situations. There are four main types of attention: sustained, selective, divided, and alternating. Sustained attention is the ability to focus on one thing for a continuous period. For example, when we read a book or watch a movie, we use sustained attention to follow the plot and characters. Selective attention is the ability to focus on one thing while ignoring other things. For example, when we listen to a lecture or a conversation, we use selective attention to filter out background noises and distractions. Divided attention is the ability to perform two or more tasks at the same time. For example, when we drive a car and talk on the phone, we use divided attention to coordinate our actions and words. Alternating attention is the ability to switch between different tasks that require different levels of focus. For example, when we study for an exam, we use alternating attention to review different topics and materials.

Each type of attention has its benefits and challenges. Sustained attention helps us to maintain concentration and avoid errors. However, it can also be exhausting and boring if the task is too long or difficult. Selective attention helps us to avoid information overload and focus on what is important. However, it can also make us miss some relevant or interesting details that are not in our focus. Divided attention helps us to multitask and save time. However, it can also reduce our performance and increase our stress if the tasks are too complex or demanding. Alternating attention helps us to adapt to changing demands and goals. However, it can also cause confusion and interference if the tasks are too similar or unrelated.

Another aspect of attention is the factors that influence attention. Many factors can enhance or impair our attention, such as interest, motivation, arousal, fatigue, distraction, and emotion. Interest is the degree to which we find something appealing or meaningful. For example, when we are interested in a topic or a person, we pay more attention to them and learn more from them. Motivation is the degree to which we have a goal or a reward for paying attention. For example, when we are motivated by grades or praise, we pay more attention to the tasks that lead to them. Arousal is the degree to which we are alert or excited.

For example, when we are aroused by a stimulus or a situation, we pay more attention to it and react faster to it. Fatigue is the degree to which we are tired or sleepy. For example, when we are fatigued by lack of sleep or stress, we pay less attention to anything and make more mistakes. Distraction is the degree to which we are exposed to irrelevant or competing stimuli. For example, when we are distracted by noises or notifications, we pay less attention to our main task and lose our focus. Emotion is the degree to which we feel positive or negative feelings. For example, when we are emotional by happiness or sadness, we pay more attention to the sources of our emotions and less attention to other things.

Each factor can have positive or negative effects on our attention depending on the context and the intensity. Interest and motivation can increase our attention and learning if they are aligned with our goals and values. However, they can also decrease our attention and learning if they are too strong or too weak. Arousal and emotion can increase our attention and performance if they are optimal and appropriate. However, they can also decrease our attention and performance if they are too high or too low. Fatigue and distraction can decrease our attention and performance if they are frequent and severe. However, they can also increase our attention and performance if they are occasional and mild.

A third aspect of attention is the effects of attention on perception and memory. Perception is the process of interpreting and organising sensory information. Memory is the process of encoding, storing, and retrieving information. Attention plays a critical role in both processes, as it determines what we perceive and what we remember. Attention can alter our perception of reality and influence our memory formation and retrieval. For example, when we pay attention to a stimulus or a situation, we perceive it more accurately and vividly. We also encode it more deeply and store it more securely in our memory. When we retrieve it later, we recall it more easily and confidently. However, when we do not pay attention to a stimulus or a situation, we perceive it less accurately and vividly. We also encode it less deeply and store it less securely in our memory. When we retrieve it later, we recall it less easily and confidently.

Therefore, it is important to improve our perception and memory by paying attention to relevant details and avoiding irrelevant ones. For example, when we read a text or listen to a speech, we should pay attention to the main ideas and the supporting evidence. We should also avoid distractions such as noises or thoughts that are not related to the text or the speech. When we study for a test or prepare for a presentation, we should pay attention to the key concepts and the examples. We should also avoid fatigue, such as lack of sleep or stress, that can impair our attention and memory.


BARACK OBAMA



 Barack Obama was the 44th President of the United States, serving two terms from 2009 to 2017. He was the first African American to hold the position of President in the country and left a lasting impact on American politics and society. Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1961 and graduated from Columbia University in 1983 with a degree in political science. After working as a community organiser in Chicago, he attended Harvard Law School, where he earned a law degree in 1991. Obama served in the Illinois State Senate from 1997 to 2004 before being elected to the United States Senate in 2004. In the 2008 presidential election, Obama defeated Republican nominee John McCain to become President of the United States. During his presidency, Obama implemented various policies, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Obamacare, which aimed to improve healthcare access for millions of Americans. He also worked to improve the economy, passed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and implemented the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to create jobs and improve infrastructure.

One of Obama's most significant foreign policy accomplishments was the negotiation of the Iran nuclear deal. He also improved relations between the United States and Cuba by reestablishing diplomatic ties and easing travel restrictions. Obama was a strong advocate for climate change action, and his Clean Power Plan sought to reduce carbon emissions from power plants.

During his presidency, Obama faced significant challenges, including the Great Recession, foreign policy crises in the Middle East, and growing political polarisation in the United States. However, he maintained high approval ratings throughout his presidency and is regarded as one of the most influential and transformative presidents in modern American history.

 

POLITICS AND RELIGION

 


Politics and religion have been intertwined for centuries, shaping the course of history and influencing the lives of millions of people around the world. Despite the fundamental differences between the two, they have often been used to legitimise each other and promote various agendas.

Religion has long been used as a tool for political control, with rulers using it to justify their authority and shape the values and beliefs of their subjects. This has led to the rise of religious hierarchies, theocracy, and religious nationalism, which have caused conflicts and divisions among people of different faiths. Furthermore, religious institutions have often been used to impose moral and ethical codes that are incompatible with modern secular values, such as gender equality, LGBTQ rights, and social justice.

On the other hand, politics has also played a significant role in shaping religious practices and beliefs, with governments using their power to regulate or suppress religious activities they deem a threat to their authority. This has led to the persecution of religious minorities, the suppression of freedom of speech, and the subjugation of religious institutions to state authority. In more recent times, the rise of populism and nationalism has led to the politicisation of religion, with religious groups being co-opted into various political movements and parties.

Despite the potential for conflict between politics and religion, there is also the potential for synergy and collaboration. Religious and political leaders can work together to promote social welfare, promote human rights, and advance the common good. Furthermore, religion can offer moral and ethical guidance to politicians and policymakers, serving as a moral compass for society. At the same time, politics can also provide a framework for religious pluralism and the protection of individual rights, ensuring that no one religion or group dominates over others.

In conclusion, politics and religion are complex and often contentious issues that require careful consideration and dialogue. While they may seem incompatible at times, they both have the potential to positively impact society when used wisely. It is up to leaders in both domains to work together to ensure that their actions promote peace, justice, and mutual respect between people of all faiths and backgrounds.

 

 

JUST TO LAUGH

 


At a workshop on dog temperament, the instructor noted that a test for a dog’s disposition was for an owner to fall down and act hurt. A dog with a poor temperament would try to bite the person, whereas a good dog would lick its owner’s face or show concern.

Once, while eating pizza in the living room, I tried this theory on my two dogs. I stood up, clutched my heart, let out a scream and collapsed on the floor.

The dogs looked at me, glanced at each other and raced to the coffee table for my pizza. 

LINES I LIKED

 


Ø  Although it’s easy to blame everyone and everything for our unhappiness, sometimes we just have to take a long look at ourselves, our habits and behaviours, and our personality.

Ø            An excellent way to broaden your experience is to listen to someone who has expertise in an area where you don’t.

 


An experience makes its appearance only when it is being said.

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

www.nara2007.blogspot.com

(NARA’S NOTEPAD)

 

Sunday, June 1, 2025

 

NARA'S NOTEPAD

VOLUME 22

JUNE 2025

NUMBER 6

NARA'S NOTEPAD

IS SUPPORTED BY READERS LIKE YOU 


 ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE IF YOU HAVE THE PERSEVERANCE TO ACHIEVE IT

THE FUTURE OF AIR TRAVEL

 


The air travel industry has seen unprecedented growth in the past decade. With rapid advancements in technology, the future of air travel looks exciting and promising. Some of the trends and innovations that are set to shape the future of air travel are listed below.

1.                  Electric Planes

Electric planes have been talked about for a while, and they could be the game-changer that the aviation industry has been looking for. Although electric planes are still in their early stages, there have been several successful tests. The most notable test was in 2019 when a modified six seater-plane made by the Slovenian company Pipistrelle successfully completed its first-ever fully electric commercial flight.

2.                Supersonic planes

Supersonic planes were last in operation in 2003 when the Concorde was retired. However, there have been some efforts towards resurrecting supersonic commercial travel. Companies like Boom Supersonic and Aerion are trying to bring supersonic travel back. Boom Supersonic is planning a fast supersonic jet that will cut the travel time from New York to London to three and a half hours.

3.                Sustainable aviation fuel

Sustainable aviation fuel is becoming increasingly popular in the aviation industry. Sustainable aviation fuel is made from renewable sources such as waste vegetable oil, agricultural waste, and municipal waste. Sustainable aviation fuel is expected to reduce carbon emissions and decarbonizes the aviation

 industry. Many airlines have started using sustainable aviation fuel in their planes, and it is expected that more airlines will adopt sustainable aviation fuel in the future.

4.      Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the aviation industry. AI can be used for many tasks, such as predicting maintenance issues, reducing flight delays, and increasing fuel efficiency. AI systems can also replace many human-operated systems, which can help reduce costs and increase safety. 

5.     Virtual reality

Virtual reality could be a game-changer for the future of air travel. Virtual reality technology can create a more immersive travel experience, which can make long-haul flights more enjoyable. Airlines can also use virtual reality technology to train pilots, air traffic controllers, and other aviation professionals.

6.       Flying cars

Flying cars may seem like something out of a sci-fi movie, but they are becoming more a reality. Companies such as Terrafugia and Aero Mobil are developing flying cars that could be on the market in the next few years. Flying cars could transform the way people travel and could help reduce traffic congestion on the ground.

In conclusion, the future of air travel looks bright. With electric planes, supersonic planes, sustainable aviation fuel, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and flying cars, the aviation industry is set to undergo massive changes in the coming years. Although some of these innovations are still in their early stages, they offer exciting opportunities that could help shape the future of air travel. With safety and sustainability as the top priorities, the aviation industry can continue to evolve and remain a vital part of the global transportation system.

 

WANT TO BE SUCCESSFUL?

 


 

1.      Improve your self-image.

2.      Set specific goals.

3.      Adopt a positive attitude.

4.      Work hard.

5.      Strengthen your relationships.

6.      Be driven by a burning desire.

 

While you can’t skip any of these steps on your way to the top, rest assured that everything you need to start is already inside of you.

WORLD OCEANS DAY

 


World Oceans Day is an event celebrated annually on June 8 to raise awareness about the importance of the ocean in our lives and the need to protect it. The ocean is the largest ecosystem on Earth and covers about 75% of the planet’s surface. It regulates our climate, provides food and jobs for millions of people, and supports diverse organisms and habitats.

The idea of World Ocean’s Day was first proposed by the Canadian Government at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Since then, it has become a global event, celebrated in over 140 countries with various activities such as beach clean-ups, educational workshops, and conservation projects.

The theme for World Oceans Day 2021 was “The Ocean’s Life and Livelihoods”, which highlights the interconnectedness of the ocean and humans. The theme aimed to raise awareness about the importance of the oceans and humans. The theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of the ocean in supporting livelihoods, such as fisheries, tourism and coastal communities.

Unfortunately, the ocean faces numerous threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change, which affect its health and the livelihoods that depend on it. Therefore, there is a need for urgent action to protect the ocean. Governments, organizations, and individuals can play their role in protecting the ocean by reducing plastic waste, managing fisheries sustainability, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting marine habitats.

World Ocean’s Day is an opportunity for everyone to reflect on the importance of the ocean, the challenges it faces, and what we can do to protect it. By working together, we can ensure that the ocean remains healthy and productive for generations to come.

 

CHARLES DE GAULLE

Charles de Gaulle was a French general and politician who served as the President of France from 1959 to 1969. He was born on November 22, 1890, in Lille, France. De Gaulle is considered as one of the most influential figures in French politics and history.

De Gaulle entered military service and began his career as an infantry officer in World War I. He was wounded several times and taken as a prisoner of war by the German army. Later, he served in various positions in the French military and played an active role in World War II. He led the French Resistance movement against the Nazi occupation of France and also served as the head of Free France, a government-in-exile based in London.

After World War II, de Gaulle played a key role in the post-war reconstruction of France. He founded the Fifth Republic, which is the present-day French political system. As President of France, he initiated several economic, social, and cultural reforms, which modernized the country. He also played a significant role in shaping France's foreign policy, particularly its relations with other European countries.

 De Gaulle is known for his political philosophy of "Gaullism," which emphasizes strong national sovereignty and independence. He also believed in the importance of Franco-German relations and advocated for the formation 

TO QUOTE

Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose. – Lyndon Johnson

Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you’re the one who gets burned. – Anonymous

Be honest and ethical. Always do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. – Jimmy Carter

JUST TO LAUGH



Once there was a man who went to an exotic country and came across a stall selling handmade handheld fans. He asked for the prettiest and longest-lasting one, and the owner charged him a whopping $1,000! After using it the first time, it broke, so he took it back for a refund.


The owner listened to the complaints and finally asked him how he used the fan. The man demonstrated flapping the fan as one would normally do.

Then the owner said, "Ah! No wonder! You have been using the fan wrong. This is the way to use it."
Then, he held the fan and frantically moved his head left and right.

LINES I LIKED

 


Ø  An unclear surface is full of distractions, making it difficult to work efficiently.

Ø  Analyse what you hear.

Ø  Any good thing we like to do will have some bad impacts.

Ø  Anyone looks like a genius when they’re in a good position, and even the smartest person looks like an idiot when they’re in a bad one.

 


Anticipation is half the joy of achievement.

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

www.nara2007.blogspot.com

(NARA’S NOTEPAD)

 

NARA'S NOTEPAD

VOLUME 22

MAY 2025

NUMBER 5


 NARA'S NOTEPAD

IS SUPPORTED BY READERS LIKE YOU

 


BE OPEN TO OTHER PEOPLE’S FEEDBACK

HUMAN FEELINGS

 


Feelings are complex mental and physiological responses to stimuli, situations, or thoughts that arise within an individual. They encompass a wide range of emotional experiences, including joy, sadness, anger, fear, love, excitement, and many others. Feelings can be triggered by external events, internal thoughts, memories, or even physical sensations, and they play a crucial role in how we perceive and navigate the world around us. Adjusting to different kinds of feelings involves developing emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies. Here are some tips for adjusting to different feelings.

Recognize and Identify Feelings: The first step in adjusting to feelings is to recognize and identify them. Pay attention to your emotional experiences and try to label and understand what you are feeling. This self-awareness is crucial for effectively managing and responding to your emotions.

Validate Your Feelings: Accept that all feelings are valid and normal. Avoid judging or criticizing yourself for experiencing certain emotions. Instead, practice self-compassion and acknowledge that it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, both positive and negative.

Explore the Root Cause: Take time to explore the underlying causes or triggers of your feelings. Reflect on the situations, thoughts, or interactions that led to your emotional response. Understanding the root causes can help you address the underlying issues and manage your feelings more effectively.

Develop Coping Strategies: Build a toolbox of healthy coping strategies to manage different kinds of feelings. This may include techniques such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, journaling, physical activity, talking to a trusted friend or therapist, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music.

Practice Emotional Regulation: Learn techniques for regulating your emotions and maintaining emotional balance. This may involve techniques such as cognitive reframing (changing negative thoughts to more positive or realistic ones), practicing relaxation techniques, setting boundaries in relationships, and practicing self-care activities that nurture your well-being.

Seek Support When Needed: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support when dealing with intense or overwhelming feelings. Talk to a friend, family member, or mental health professional who can provide guidance, validation, and support during difficult times. Connecting with others can help you feel understood and less alone in your emotional experiences.

Practical Self-Compassion: Be kind and compassionate toward yourself, especially during times of heightened emotions or challenges. Treat yourself with the same empathy and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing similar feelings. Self-compassion can help you navigate difficult emotions with greater resilience and self-acceptance.Learn from Your Feelings: View your feelings as valuable sources of information and learning. Reflect on what your emotions are trying to communicate to you about your needs, values, and boundaries. Use this insight to make informed decisions and take constructive actions in your life.

Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to become more attuned to your feelings and reactions. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment, observing your thoughts and emotions without judgement, and cultivating a sense of acceptance and non-reactivity. Regular mindfulness meditation can help you develop a greater sense of emotional balance and reliance in the face of challenging feelings.

Express Your Feelings Appropriately: Find healthy ways to express your feelings, whether it’s through talking openly with trusted individuals, writing in a journal, engaging in creative activities, or participating in support groups. Expressing your emotions in constructive ways can help you process and release them, preventing them from building up and causing unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Practice Emotional Flexibility: Recognize that emotions are fluid and can change over time. Avoid getting stuck in rigid emotional patterns or holding onto negative feelings longer than necessary. Cultivate emotional flexibility by allowing yourself to experience a range of emotions and adapting to changing circumstances with resilience and adaptability.

Set Realistic Expectations: Be realistic about what you can control and influence in your life, including your emotional responses. Understand that it’s normal to experience a mix of positive and negative emotions, and that perfection is not attainable. Set realistic expectations for yourself and others, and focus on progress rather than perfection in managing your feelings.

Seek Balance: Strive for a balance between acknowledging and processing your feelings and not letting them overwhelm or consume you. Practice self-care activities that promote relaxation, joy, and well-being, such as spending time in nature, engaging in hobbies, connecting with loved ones, and prioritizing rest and relaxation.

Practice Empathy: Develop empathy towards yourself and others by recognizing that everyone experiences a range of emotions and struggles at times. Practice active listening empathy in your interactions with others, and be open to understanding their feelings and perspectives. Cultivating empathy can foster deeper connections and mutual support in navigating complex emotional experiences.

Reflect and Learn: Take time to reflect on your emotional experiences and learn from them. Consider what you can learn about yourself, your values, and your needs from different feelings and situations. Use this self-reflection as an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and continuous learning in managing your emotions effectively.

By integrating these strategies into your life, you can develop greater emotional intelligence, resilience, and well-being allowing you to adjust more skillfully to different kinds of feelings and navigate lives challenges with greater ease and grace.

 

MARGARET THATCHER

 


Margaret Thatcher, also known as the "Iron Lady," was the first female Prime Minister of Britain. She served as a leader from 1979 to 1990, making a significant impact on the country and global politics. Thatcher's conservative policies, free-market economics, and strong leadership style transformed Britain's economic and political landscape fundamentally.

Born on October 13, 1925, in Grantham, Lincolnshire, Thatcher was an intelligent and ambitious young woman. After studying chemistry at Oxford University, she worked as a research chemist before deciding to pursue a career in politics. She was elected to Parliament in 1959 as a member of the Conservative Party and quickly made a name for herself as a force to be reckoned with.


Thatcher's rise to power began in 1975, when she was elected as the leader of the Conservative Party. At the time, the UK was in a state of economic decline and political turmoil, with high inflation, high unemployment, and widespread industrial unrest. Thatcher promised to restore Britain's economic prosperity and national pride, and the British people gave her a landslide victory in the 1979 general election.


Thatcher's economic policies were based on a free-market ideology that emphasized reducing government intervention, deregulation, and privatization. She implemented deep spending cuts, sold off state-owned industries, and reduced the power of trade unions, which had long dominated British politics. Many of her policies were highly controversial and led to widespread protests and strikes.


Despite the opposition, Thatcher remained resolute and unwavering in her convictions, earning her reputation as the "Iron Lady." She believed in the importance of individual freedom, responsibility, and initiative, and saw herself as a champion of the common man against the power of the state.

Thatcher resigned as Prime Minister in 1990 after a leadership challenge within her party. She was succeeded by John Major, but her legacy as one of the most significant political figures of the 20th century continues to live on. Thatcher's policies transformed British society and economy, paving the way for the globalization of the 1990s and shaping the political landscape of modern Britain.

 

GLOBAL WARMING

 


Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average temperature due to human activities, primarily the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation. The release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere traps heat and leads to the greenhouse effect, causing Earth’s temperature to rise.

The consequences of global warming are far-reaching and impact various aspects of our planet. Rising temperatures contribute to melting polar ice caps and glaciers, leading to sea-level rise and coastal flooding. Extreme events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heat waves, are becoming more frequent and intense.

Global warming also disrupts ecosystems, causing shifts in habitats and the extinction of numerous plant and animal species. It affects agriculture, altering growing seasons and reducing crop yields. Furthermore, it poses risks to human health, increasing the spread of infectious diseases and exacerbating respiratory problems due to poor air quality.

Addressing global warming requires collective efforts on a global scale. Mitigation involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to clean and renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing sustainable land-use practices. Additionally, adaptation measures are necessary to cope with the changes already occurring and minimize the potential impacts.

It is essential for governments, businesses, and individuals to take proactive steps in curbing global warming. By embracing sustainable practices, promoting green technologies, and fostering international cooperation, we can strive towards a more resilient and environmentally conscious future.

 

TO QUOTE


 To forgive is the highest, most beautiful form of love. In return, you will receive untold peace and happiness. – Robert Muller

There is only one person who could ever make you happy, and that person is YOU. – David Burns

Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty… - Theodore Roosevelt

JUST TO LAUGH



 MARRIAGE:

It's an agreement wherein a man loses his bachelor's degree and a woman gains her master's.

CONFERENCE:

The confusion of one man multiplied by the number present.

CONFERENCE ROOM:

A place where everybody talks, nobody listens, and everybody disagrees.

SMILE:

A curve that can set a lot of things straight!

LINES I LIKED

 Ø  

BØ  Beginning to doubt what you’re told is a key step in becoming a more effective thinker.

Ø  Being a dreamer is essential because it helps you be creative and turn your ideas into tangible goals.

Ø  Being brave demands stamina, energy and endurance.

 

Be wrong once, never twice!

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

www.nara2007.blogspot.com

(NARA’S NOTEPAD)