If thinking is categorized practically, it can be broadly split into ‘volitional thinking’ and ‘instrumental thinking.’ Volitional thinking involves the belief that to succeed, a person must have a strong will to overcome hardships and obstacles. Self-improvement falls under this category. However, to actually overcome hardships and obstacles, it is instrumental thinking that drives us to consider that we need ‘tools’ to get past them. In other words, it’s like how carpenters build houses: they construct the structure, but tools are what make it possible. There is no carpenter without tools. Both are essential for success, but if I had to emphasize one, focusing on instrumental thinking is more advantageous. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Experience should not serve as a constraint that confines individuals to their past; instead, it should act as a foundation for future endeavors. While successful experiences can instill confidence, they may simultaneously restrict one’s thoughts and actions, leading to potential lapses in judgment. It is noteworthy that my achievements may not have solely stemmed from my abilities but could have been attributed to fortuitous circumstances, often arising from the missteps of others. A valuable experience should not foster arrogance or dismiss the fallibility of unwavering self-assurance and disregard for alternative perspectives. To mitigate the risk of failure, one must cultivate humility. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”