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- January 28, 2020
- 5:00 pm
David Foster Wallace (February 21, 1962 – September 12, 2008) was an American writer and university professor in the disciplines of English and creative writing.
This speech is from his graduation address at Kenyon College in 2005.
The most profound ideas are the most difficult to articulate because they express thoughts that transcend words. Many of us struggle through life because we are stuck in our “default setting”, where we unconsciously see ourselves as the absolute center of the universe. David Foster Wallace presents an alternative way to see the world in this timeless speech.
How can distinguishing reality from our internal narrative help us make better decisions and reduce stress?
The human mind is an incredibly complex entity capable of processing vast amounts of information, analyzing data, and solving complex problems. However, despite its immense capability, the mind can also be a terrible master, controlling our thoughts and actions in undesirable ways.
When we allow our minds to become our masters, we relinquish our control over our thoughts and actions. We become slaves to our internal dialogue, which can lead to anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. Negative thoughts and emotions can consume us, leading to a decline in mental and physical health.
The mind is an excellent servant when it is utilized to its full potential. It can be trained to focus on the task at hand, analyze data, and solve problems. When we take control of our minds, we can achieve great things and improve our lives in countless ways.
The key to mastering the mind is to practice mindfulness and self-awareness. By paying attention to our thoughts and emotions, we can recognize negative thought patterns and take steps to stop them. Mindfulness meditation can be a powerful tool to help us become more present and centered, enabling us to take control of our thoughts and emotions.
Furthermore, it’s essential to understand that our thoughts and beliefs are not necessarily a reflection of reality. Our minds have a propensity for creating stories and scenarios, often fueled by fear or anxiety. Learning to distinguish reality from our internal narrative can help us make better decisions and avoid unnecessary stress.
In conclusion, the mind is an excellent servant when we take control of it. By practicing mindfulness and self-awareness, we can avoid becoming slaves to our internal dialogue and negative thoughts. Remember, your mind serves you, not the other way around. Take charge of your mind, and you can master your thoughts, emotions, and your life.
