‘The Art of the Good Life’ (II)
This week, we’ll continue with ‘The Art of the Good Life’ by Rolf Dobelli
Chapter 11: The Focusing Illusion — — why you wouldn’t be happier in the Carribbean
How much better life would be if you had a different job, lived in a different location, a different house, had a different haircut? Okay, it would be a little different.
Take the longest possible view of your life. Realize that the things that seemed so important in the moment have shrunk to the size of dots — — dots that barely affect the overall picture. A good life is only attainable if you take the occasional peek through a wide-angle lens. (從較開闊的角度看你的人生, 而非集中在一兩件事上, 才可過好生活。)
Chapter 12: The Things you Buy Leave no Real Trace — — why you should buy less and experience more
If it’s the good life you’re after then it’s advisable to show restraint about what you buy.
Whey you experience something pleasurable, you’re fully present in both heart and mind.
Reading a good book, taking a trip with your family, playing cards with friends — — they’re all bargains.(體驗比購買實物更有影響力)
Chapter 14: The Circle of Competence — — why it’s important to know your limits
It’s completely irrelevant how many areas you’re average or below average in. What matters is that you’re far above average in at least one area — — ideally, the best in the world. Once that’s sorted, you’ll have a solid basis for a good life. (尋找一項你最擅長的工作, 至為關鍵。)
Chapter 15: The Secret of Persistence — — why bores are more successful than adventurers
Once you’ve identified your circle of competence, stick at it as long as possible. Likewise if you find a good spouse, a suitable place to live or a rewarding hobby.
‘You don’t have to be brilliant,’ as Charlie Munger says, ‘only a little bit wiser than the other guys, on average, for a long, long time.’
Chapter 20: Your Tow Selves — — why your life isn’t a photo album
Because of our remembering self’s miscalculations, we tend to prize brief, intense pleasures too highly and quiet, lasting, tranquil joys too little: bungee jumping instead of long hikes, thrilling one-night-stands instead of regular sex with your partner, attention-grabbing YouTube videos instead of a good book.
