Mindset
Personality
A sense of self
The journey of self-discovery, knowing who you are and what you like serves as the cornerstone of your identity. This existential sensitivity, an awareness of one’s existence and emotions, is the base of a connection with oneself and the wider world. Looking beyond the confines of your own perspective to observe the world around you, identifying elements that resonate on a personal level, shaping our sense of self. We are, fundamentally, a culmination of our feelings, experiences, and the choices we make in response to them.
It’s through this pursuit of personal growth and existential understanding that we begin to see the importance of cultivating our sense of self as an act of resistance. In a world where conformity and algorithmic sameness prevail, asserting our individuality and values becomes a powerful declaration of authenticity and rebellion. This self-awareness is not just about rejecting external influences, but about affirming who we are at our core and what truly matters to us.
A deliberate engagement with the physical world encourages unhurried, contemplative relationship with reading and learning, allowing us to quieten and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world. The act of slowing down and engaging deeply with material can be freeing, fostering a connection to the essence of what it means to be human.
The journey towards self-discovery and personal growth is ongoing, making a conscious decision to grow. It prompts us to continually ask ourselves, “Who am I without distraction?” and “What does it mean to be a free human?” It is never too late to redefine ourselves, to seek out what resonates with us, and to embrace the authenticity of being.
Discovery
Reflect
Experience new
Read
Work
Creation
There is a growing realization that work does not define who we are. Instead, the educational system and workplace are shifting focus towards nurturing skills that are uniquely human, such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence. This fundamental shift prepares people not just to survive but to thrive in a technologically advanced society, ensuring that their essence and humanity remain at the forefront. It’s a move towards valuing human labour not just for its ability to produce goods or services, but for its role in creating meaningful connections and personalized experiences that resonate on a deeper level.
It’s a call to embrace the activities and crafts that bring joy and fulfillment, regardless of their status or recognition in broader society. This encourages people to pursue their passions and interests without the pressure of achieving fame or external validation. It is about taking control of one’s destiny, learning to sift through personal experiences, interpret feelings, and transform them into guiding values and principles.
The emphasis on real-world experiences and practical applications in education is transforming how knowledge is acquired and applied. By encorporating internships, community projects, and collaborations with industry professionals into the curriculum, students are given the opportunity to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and its practical implementation.
Rebuilding society on the foundations of meaning, highlights the limitless potential of the human spirit when it is allowed to explore, create, and connect in ways that are meaningful and authentic. The human experience is multifaceted, involving a dynamic interplay between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the mind.
Creativity
Expressive
Slowness
Meaning
Active
A slower way of being
Despite a societal trend towards a sense of isolation and a decline in collective experiences, there remains a deep-seated yearning for shared adventures. Meeting “other-minded” people broadens our horizons and also strengthens the fabric of our communities, making them richer and more resilient.
Gardening can be seen as a profound act of hope and forward planning. It symbolizes living a better present while cultivating something for the future. Similarly, engaging with the classics whether chess, books, ballet, opera, movies, or even recipes, offers experiences that connect us to the past, enrich our present, and inspire our future. These timeless activities provide a foundation for shared experiences, sparking curiosity and offering a sense of continuity.
The concept of an “Internet Sabbath” represents a deliberate pause in our digitally saturated lives, reviving traditional practices such as family meals and meaningful conversations. A weekly disconnection encourages a return to simplicity and presence, fostering deeper connections with those around us. It’s a testament to the power of routine to conserve mental energy, allowing us to engage with the world with a sense of wonder akin to that of a child. By stepping back from the relentless pace of online activity, we reclaim time for personal reflection and discovery, slowing down our perception of the relentless march of time.
Venturing out to seek new, exciting experiences challenges the comfort of our sheltered, sedentary lives, addressing the root of many physical and mental health issues. It’s a call to action, urging us to break free from the autopilot mode of daily routines and rediscover the joy of living fully and engaging with the vibrant tapestry of life that surrounds us.
Other
Timeless
Priceless
Learn
Spending
Authentic
People are increasingly drawn to items that showcase the human touch, an element that machines cannot replicate. The analogue luxury represents authenticity and craftsmanship. This appreciation for craftsmanship suggests that the value of artisan work will continue to rise. As technology advances, the distinction between the handmade and the mass-produced becomes more pronounced, making the former not only a symbol of luxury but also a statement of individuality and ethical consumption.
We see a growing fondness for the mundane, everyday experiences that, upon closer inspection, reveal themselves to be extraordinary. This perspective celebrates the ‘smaller lives’ we lead, finding depth and richness in simplicity. It’s about cherishing those quiet moments that might at first glance seem insignificant but are, in fact life affirming and the moments to cherish. These do not have to come from grand gestures or extravagance but can be found in the ordinary and often overlooked moments.
Live events epitomize the concept of unforgettable experiences, demanding both our presence and participation. Live performances foster a unique connection with a place and moment in time. They encourage attendees to invest in connections with the artists and fellow audience members, creating a collective memory that cannot be replicated.
The resurgence of vinyl records, books and 70 mm film is not just about nostalgia but represents a conscious choice for quality, tangibility, and the unique experience of engaging with music in a physical format. A future where personalized, AI-driven experiences become the norm, paradoxically, enhances the value of analogue and human-centric experiences that offer a reprieve from the digital noise.
