Section 1.1: Time and Its Value

1. Time and death wait for no one.

From the moment of our birth, we enter into a temporary agreement with the universe, a pact that grants us access to its wonders. However, the intriguing aspect of this agreement is its unknown expiration date. Some individuals may only see a day or a week, while others are gifted with decades or even a century. This secret serves to remind us to cherish our time and savor every moment of life. Yet, many fail to appreciate this precious resource, squandering it on trivial pursuits like gossip and social media rather than focusing on learning and growth.

I hold strong beliefs about time. I believe that wasting it brings accountability before a higher power. Rather than waiting for a future moment to chase our dreams, we should act now. If you wish to propose to someone or seek forgiveness for past errors, do it now. Time is fleeting, much like melting ice—it's your choice how to utilize it.

Section 1.2: The Present Moment

2. If you dwell on the past, you may feel depressed; if you worry about the future, you may feel anxious; but if you stay in the present, you can feel happiness.

Our minds are often in a state of constant chatter, fixating on past regrets and future worries. Reflecting on previous choices can lead to feelings of sadness, while anxiety about what’s to come can hinder our ability to enjoy the moment. The past is immutable; we can only extract lessons or regrets from it. Similarly, our thoughts about the future can have a detrimental impact on our mental well-being. The key to happiness lies in embracing the present moment. To achieve a fulfilling life, we must cultivate mindfulness and immerse ourselves fully in our current activities, allowing us to extract joy from each experience.

Section 2.1: The Impact of Dopamine

3. The modern devil is cheap dopamine. (Naval Ravikant)

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation and craving, was first identified by Arvid Carlsson in the mid-20th century. There are two categories of dopamine: cheap dopamine, derived from instant gratifications like drugs and sugar, and hard-earned dopamine, which comes from accomplishments such as exercise and skill acquisition. Our brains are wired to seek the easiest path to dopamine release, often leading us toward the instant gratifications that dull our senses and diminish productivity.

To cultivate a joyful and fulfilling life, seek dopamine from challenging endeavors. Engaging in exercise, establishing healthy habits, and pursuing knowledge will enhance overall happiness and enrich our lives.

Section 2.2: The Role of Habits

4. People don’t shape their futures; they shape their habits, and those habits shape their futures.

Habits form the foundation of our daily existence. Research indicates that our minds process an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 thoughts each day, relying on habitual patterns to navigate them. The distinction between success and failure, health and illness, productivity and stagnation often lies in the habits we cultivate.

Habits have a compounding effect; for instance, if you prioritize health and diligence during your academic years, you’re likely to carry those traits into college and beyond. Conversely, neglect in early years can lead to ongoing challenges. Adopting positive habits—such as regular exercise, reading, and practicing gratitude—can significantly enhance the quality of life.