Fatalism- a failed philosophy
Avoiding fatalism
Fatalism is tricky. One for its meaning being widely misunderstood and two for how pernicious it is to those who have unwittingly embraced it.
While its name may engender some confusion, fatalism does not mean one eagerly awaits death- however it may be the death of hope, achievement, and satisfaction. Fatalism derives its name from the fabled fates who spun the future of mere humans who were powerless to change the outcome.
Fatalism typically manifests itself in the belief that no matter what one does the die has been cast leaving us powerless to change the outcome. It hinges largely in the belief of Predeterminism- that all events have been established in advance.
Such ideologies may sound absurd in today’s society that exalts technology, science, and rational thought. However, regardless of our educational pedigree, intellect, or even good intentions we can find ourselves embracing this dark philosophy. Fatalism triumphs over those who believe in it.
Here are just a few examples of fatalistic thinking.
- “It would have turned out this way regardless”.
- “Nothing can be done, so why try?”
- “HECM endorsements will never improve.”
- “There’s no way I could do that. It just wouldn’t work.”
- “Why bother making the call? They’re just going to say no anyway.”
Negativity and fatalism are close cousins and sap our faith, hope, and perseverance which begs the question- how does one steer clear of fatalistic thinking?
Here are a few ways to avoid fatalism
- Find positive friends who inspire and uplift you. This is the crowd you want to spend time with, share your ideas and plans with, and ask feedback from.
- Change your diet. Not food- but what you watch on television, read online, and listen to. Write down what your typical routine is and look back to see if any reinforce a negative perception.
- Exercise. Moving and getting your heart rate up is the easiest and cheapest antidepressant available. Whether you walk, run, or use a treadmill to get active.
- Drop off Facebook and Twitter for a week or longer. Much of what you see in your timeline is either (1) negative, or (2) fake.
- Read inspirational books or quotes to feed the soul.
In conclusion, it can be said that fatalism can be fatal to your hopes, dreams, and achievements. The trick is to identify it and steer clear.
Friends, Adversity & Gratitude
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Continue reading10 Ways to Get ‘Smarter’
- Visit new places
- Continue your education
- Read books
- Challenge yourself physically
- Play an instrument or learn how to play one
- Write or blog
- Role play
- Teach others
- Eat healthful foods
- Find interesting people
Clips used under the Fair Use Act:
- “Don’t you want to look at the Grand Canyon” Vacation, (1983)
- “Im professor Turgeson”. Back to School, (1986)
- “Just doing my workout”. Anchorman, The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
- “You play an instrument? -Yeah.” I lLove you Man (2009)
- “I’m a writer.” The Shining (1980)
- “Some therapeutic role-playing exercise.” News Radio (1995)
- “I’m going to teach you.” Young Frankenstein (1974)
- “Animals at the zoo eat better than me.” Married with Children (1987)
- “You get to meet lots of interesting people.” The Simpsons (1989)
Avoiding Success Killers
A humorous look at success
Video clip credits under the Fair Use Act:
- My Bad: Penguins of Madagascar (2014)
- We’re making sausage: Seinfeld (1989) – S09E04 The Blood
- What we got here is a failure to communicate: Cool Hand Luke (1967)
- Is that an insult, or is that part of the public speaking advice? The Office (2005) – S02E17 Dwight’s Speech
- Persuasion. – Right. Mascots (2016)
The Hallmarks of Success
What’s Your Mindset for 2017?
Many have grown their business despite adversity
It was refreshing. Attending a recent sales meeting of mortgage brokers the keynote speaker lit up the room. He outlined how he refused to accept that his business would shrink due to the housing crash and the countless regulations that followed. Tough words coming from a mortgage wholesaler, but true. Not only did he survive but he actually exploded his business while others accepted defeat.
Results vs. Intentions
Why Our Results & Intentions Always Match
“The road to hell is paved with good intentions”. This popular aphorism underscores the importance of putting action behind our plans and internal promises. During a professional coaching class I attended several months ago one instructor took it a step further stating, “results and intentions always match”.
In Brian Klemmer’s book, “When Good Intentions Run Smack into Reality” he outlines several steps to the path to better results. Here are just a few that we should consider.
1. Identify the result. It’s the familiar ‘work backward’ from the goal approach. Envision exactly what you want, desire and dream of. Is it more loans? A better marriage? Improved health and energy? Be specific.
2. Set the context. The context or environment in which you work toward your result influences everything. Identify the ideal context in which your goals would be achieved. Don’t stop at declaring your context but create it. This could be changing your…
7 Questions That Predict Your Success
Success. Its definition reaches far beyond our income, position, and responsibilities. For some success is achieving the freedom to live the life they want, while for others it hinges on their professional recognition. Do you want to know if you will be successful in the future? If so, ask yourself these questions. Welcome to Friday’s Food for Thought, brought to you by Open Mortgage, where better is possible.
1. Do I share my goals?. We’ve heard for years that sharing our goals helps increase accountability, however, some studies have shown quite the opposite. In a recent TED Talk “Keep your goals to yourself”, Derek Sivers said that sharing your goals can lead to a social reality that tricks the mind into feeling you’ve already met your goal. It boils down to less talking and more doing until after the fact.
2. Am I stubborn?. The world and those around it are constantly seeking to impose its will on you. “The question is whose will does prevail in the end? Stronger will power is the results of…
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