Keywords: Perspective, introspection, world, trajectory, purpose, direction, control, values, positive mindset, positive impact, growth, discovery.
Welcome back curious reader
Today, we embark on a journey of introspection, exploring the age-old question of whether the glass is half full or half empty in the context of our world, our globe, and the universe beyond. Just as this question prompts us to consider our outlook on life, so too does it compel us to examine our perspective on the state of our planet and the vast cosmos it inhabits. What follows is how I feel about it and I believe it comes down to subjectivity and mindset. Below is the challenge prompt from class this week on whether the world is getting better or worse:
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In our classroom (crit room), we have a massive wallpaper titled “The World,” depicting Earth stretching across an entire wall. Its a reminder of just how small we are against the backdrop of the globe and even space itself. However does the term “world” encompass not only our planet but also the vast universe and all life within it? no it doesn’t actually and I was surprised by that ”The world typically refers to the planet Earth and everything that exists on it, including all living beings, the natural environment, and human-made structures.”
Initially, I stood at the top middle of the diagram/ room holding a neutral stance on my potential personal impact on being able to make things even better, believing that as a part of nature, I couldn’t significantly alter its course. However, upon reflection, I’ve come to acknowledge the undeniable impact humans have on the environment and each other, particularly as our population soars and resources dwindle. With my initial misunderstanding about the definition of the world, I believed in the grand scheme of the universe, Earth is but a speck—a tiny component in the macro organism of the cosmos however after the definition got cleared up, I changed to standing top left of the diagram/room.
While we can certainly strive to make the world a better place, it’s still essential to recognize the limitations of our influence on the universe’s trajectory and how our world fits into that greater plan. Whether the world is improving or declining depends largely on our individual, species-centric perspectives. And while we can make a difference and have an impact, it’s crucial to avoid getting bogged down in existential questions about the universe’s purpose or direction. I belive I got that positivity and perspective from how I was brought up, and also this book: Subtle art of not giving a f*ck life lessons
Ultimately, like the entrepreneur who sold the glass while others debated its contents, I choose to focus on what I can control—my actions, my values, and my impact on the world around me. I’m committed to designing with purpose, having a strong creative philosophy, striving to have a positive influence, and building something greater than myself. The summary of this commitment for me, in 3 big words and its plastered on my wall, DESIGN, BUSINESS, IMPROVEMENT. I’m not focused much on anything that is beyond my control, or beyond which I choose to not to control, influence or be involved in 🙂
So, as we ponder the state of the world and the universe at large, let’s remember to focus on what truly matters—making a difference, leaving a positive mark, living in the now and embracing the journey of growth and discovery.
Until next time,