NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I'm fundamentally an entrepreneur, and any day I solve the same problem twice in a row, I'm pretty unhappy. I like to do something different every day.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The idea that we repeat ourselves and pigeonhole ourselves is a modern invention created through specialization of labor in the industrial revolution.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

As more people move up Maslow's hierarchy of needs, we will be able to define ourselves much more loosely.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

AngelList is the world's largest platform for online fundraising and recruiting for startups, bringing venture capital online.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

We have lots of great lead investors, many micro venture capitalists who can do deals on the platform, allowing anyone who is wealthy and sophisticated to invest behind them.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The desire to be successful often contradicts the desire to be happy, and we must learn to balance both.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Happiness is a choice that you make and a skill that you develop; it is not about external accomplishments.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I think we all get shaped by adversity; every great thing I've accomplished started with something highly negative.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I grew up in a tough environment as an immigrant, which shaped my intense drive to succeed and win.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I learned the importance of honesty from Richard Feynman, who said you must never fool yourself, as you are the easiest person to fool.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Growing up in New York, I learned that honesty is a strong virtue, even in tough environments, and it is crucial in relationships.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

To be happy, you have to be present, and one of the core tenets of being present is to be completely honest at all times.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

AngelList helps founders fund other founders and recruit great talent, standing for underdogs in the startup ecosystem.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The information revolution is reversing the industrial revolution, shrinking the optimal size of firms from thousands to potentially one.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

In the future, individuals will work for themselves, choosing jobs and contracts based on social connections and personal preferences.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The world is moving towards independent brands and individuals, and I believe we are all meant to work for ourselves rather than follow hierarchies or traditional 9-to-5 jobs.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Being a Founder is about creating yourself day by day, habit by habit, rather than just finding yourself.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

When investing in a founder, I look for three key traits: intelligence, energy, and integrity. Intelligence means having a deep understanding of their field, energy is crucial for perseverance, and integrity ensures they act ethically even when faced with challenges.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

If a founder is willing to do something unfair to make me happy, that's a red flag. Integrity is about having core values that transcend financial incentives.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Investing in someone means committing to spend a significant amount of time with them, so it's essential to genuinely like the people you work with.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The best founders are those who I learn from, and I jump at the chance to help them because I know I will come away smarter.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Great new companies often look strange and don't fit conventional molds, which can lead investors to miss out on significant opportunities.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Conventional wisdom in investing is often wrong; for example, many believed there was no money in the internet before Netscape, or in software before Microsoft.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should evaluate each investment opportunity on its own merits, regardless of past failures in that space.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I treat books as throwaway blog posts, allowing me to read multiple books at once without the pressure to finish them, which has rekindled my love for reading. I filter my blogs very carefully and have a long reading list of a couple of hundred blogs, with a recent standout being 'Melting Asphalt' by Kevin Simler, which offers deep insights into various topics.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books are often more valuable than bite-sized information from blogs or social media, as they contain wisdom that has stood the test of time.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading news articles all day can lead to becoming a hyper-stressed and anxious individual, as your brain rewires to assume that every bad thing is happening next door instead of far away.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The best thing you can do for yourself in the tech business is to move to Silicon Valley, similar to how actors need to go to Hollywood.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I passed on investing in Pinterest despite having multiple chances, thinking it was just images and wouldn't make money, even when my fiancée was using it obsessively.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

In the startup world, you're betting that 90% of companies will go to zero or just return your money, while the remaining 10% will yield huge multiples and markups.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The mistake of commission usually happens when you don't have time to get comfortable with a deal and make a decision quickly due to fear of missing out.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I regret signing up for advisory roles because they consume a lot of time, and you often end up working for the founder without a clear benefit to yourself.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Meditation is like dieting; everyone talks about doing it, but few actually do it regularly. I've tried at least four different forms of meditation, and the one that works best for me is choiceless awareness.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Enlightenment is a space between your thoughts, which means you can achieve it moment to moment, rather than through years of practice.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

To have peace of mind, you need to have peace of body first, which is why I emphasize the power of habits and daily routines. It's all about habits; whether I'm picking up a good habit or discarding a bad one, it takes time. For instance, if someone wants to be fit but is currently out of shape, it's not going to happen in three months. It's a long-term journey, at least ten years, where you'll break bad habits and replace them with good ones.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The morning routine I follow is a mobility movement practice, not intended for a big burn. It involves taking my joints to their end range of movement while controlling my breathing in a specific way, which contributes to the present state value of that routine.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

People often underestimate what can be achieved in a short time, but they also underestimate how quickly they can fall back into bad habits. It's a long-term project because it's not just a diet; it's a way of eating that prevents future weight gain.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can lose 20 pounds in a month surprisingly easily, but you must track your habits. Measurement is a great way to make changes concrete. A good book on this is 'The Power of Habit' by Charles Duhigg.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

To sustain a healthy diet, I focus on changing my taste buds to enjoy healthier foods instead of labeling certain foods as bad. I substitute unhealthy tasty foods with healthy ones to make it effortless to maintain my habits.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I've developed a taste for Japanese cuisine, which has helped me enjoy flavorful food that is healthier. Now, I find heavy, creamy foods unappealing, and I prefer simple, fresh meals that taste better and are easy to prepare.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The freshness and quality of food, especially when cooked Tepanyaki style, is crucial. Cooking high-quality meats and vegetables right before eating enhances the taste significantly, making home-cooked meals more enjoyable than restaurant food.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I dropped caffeine and hard alcohol, which seemed difficult at first, but it was manageable. I realized that caffeine was a stimulant that caused energy crashes, and once I stopped, I experienced more consistent energy levels throughout the day.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

When trying to change behaviors, it's often easier to remove multiple negative inputs at once, like caffeine, sugar, and alcohol, because they are interdependent. I did this by attending a three-day meditation retreat, which helped me overcome the initial challenges.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

To effectively change habits, you need incentives, whether positive or negative. Self-control is overrated, and setting up external commitments can help reinforce your goals, as I did when I announced my intention to start a company to my colleagues.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The book 'Sapiens' by Yuval Noah Harari offers a unique perspective on human history, exploring how storytelling has allowed humans to self-organize and dominate other species. It challenges conventional views and provides startling insights into our nature.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Religions serve as a cooperating system for humans, establishing rules and boundaries for expected behavior.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The 'Origin of Species' by Charles Darwin explains human behavior better than anything else, as it provides insight into how humans work on a large scale.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can be a gateway to understanding complex ideas and improving your mental health.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books like 'Illusions' by Richard Bach offer mental hacks for living your life more effectively.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Treat your life like a movie; this perspective helps you maintain a positive outlook and engage with others more meaningfully.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to be more ethical and moral by treating your life as a movie and considering how a hero would act.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn a lot from observing how others behave and adopting traits you admire.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to navigate life's complexities by observing and reflecting on your own thoughts and actions.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Meditative practices help you observe your thoughts and reactions, allowing for more effective responses in daily life.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to be more present and engaged in your life by observing your thoughts and reactions.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Understanding Game Theory, even at a basic level, is essential for grasping how humans negotiate and behave.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books like 'The Origins of Virtue' by Matt Ridley provide a deep understanding of human behavior and negotiation.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can serve as a guide to understanding the intricacies of human nature and society.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can provide valuable insights into human behavior and relationships, enhancing your understanding of social dynamics.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Understanding the dynamics of human behavior can help you navigate social interactions more effectively.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can serve as a guide to understanding the intricacies of human nature and society.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can provide valuable insights into human behavior and relationships, enhancing your understanding of social dynamics.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The principles of psychology can be used for good or ill; it's important to maintain honesty in your interactions.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can provide a framework for understanding complex concepts and navigating life's challenges.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can serve as a source of wisdom and guidance in navigating life's complexities.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can provide insights into happiness, relationships, and personal values that are often overlooked in traditional education.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can serve as a source of wisdom and guidance in navigating life's complexities.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can provide a framework for understanding complex concepts and navigating life's challenges.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can cultivate a habit of reading by starting with topics that genuinely interest you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should embrace the freedom to explore literature without the constraints of traditional education.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a liberating experience; it allows you to explore new ideas without the constraints of traditional education.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to read and enjoy it; start with books that interest you and don't feel pressured to finish them.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can cultivate a habit of reading by starting with topics that genuinely interest you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should embrace the freedom to explore literature without the constraints of traditional education.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can cultivate a love for reading by associating it with positive experiences and enjoyment.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can cultivate a love for reading by associating it with positive experiences and enjoyment.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Don't feel obligated to finish any book; read what you enjoy and skip around as you like.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should read what excites you and not feel pressured to stick to a linear reading path.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should embrace the freedom to explore literature without the pressure of completing every book you start.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The best way to get hooked on reading is to find books that you genuinely enjoy and that spark your interest.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books like 'Snow Crash' and 'The Lies of Locke Lamora' are excellent for those who enjoy fantasy and humor.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Graphic novels like 'V for Vendetta' and 'The Watchmen' are underrated and offer great writing alongside beautiful illustrations.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books like 'Sapiens' are great for understanding history and science in an approachable way.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The act of reading can be a form of meditation, helping you to focus and calm your mind.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a source of comfort and solace, especially during challenging times.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

If you want to solve insomnia, reading fiction before bed can help turn off your problem-solving brain.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a source of comfort and solace, especially during challenging times.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books like 'Zorba the Greek' combine humor with deep philosophical insights, making them enjoyable reads.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius is a powerful book that can change your worldview on success and happiness.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The best way to engage with literature is to pick up multiple books and find the ones that truly captivate you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The joy of reading can be found in picking up various books and finding what resonates with you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should approach reading with curiosity and openness, allowing yourself to explore various topics and styles.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can find joy in reading by exploring different genres and styles until you discover what resonates with you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should approach reading with a sense of adventure, exploring new ideas and perspectives.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should approach reading with curiosity and openness, allowing yourself to explore various topics and styles.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should approach reading with a sense of adventure, exploring new ideas and perspectives.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The importance of reading cannot be overstated; it opens doors to new ideas and perspectives.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a source of joy and inspiration, helping you to connect with your inner self.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading is a powerful tool; it can help you acquire new skills and knowledge that are essential for personal growth.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a powerful means of self-education, allowing you to acquire knowledge and skills independently.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can enhance your mental well-being by engaging with literature that resonates with your personal experiences.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal development.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The act of reading can help you develop a more nuanced understanding of the world and your place in it.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading is the ultimate meta skill; it allows you to learn how to be healthy, fit, happy, and successful.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a transformative experience, shaping your thoughts and perspectives on life.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to appreciate the beauty of language and storytelling through reading.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a transformative experience, shaping your thoughts and perspectives on life.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can enhance your mental well-being by engaging with literature that resonates with your personal experiences.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a powerful means of self-education, allowing you to acquire knowledge and skills independently.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can be a source of joy and inspiration, helping you to connect with your inner self.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn to appreciate the beauty of language and storytelling through reading.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Reading can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Books can serve as a source of inspiration and guidance in navigating life's challenges.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You can learn how to be happy and successful through reading; it's a skill that can be developed.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Chill out and don't stress so much; everything will be fine if you live in the moment.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should prioritize reading for enjoyment and personal growth over societal expectations.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Self-actualization is crucial; say no to more things to protect your precious time.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should prioritize your time and energy on activities that align with your values and goals.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

You should prioritize your time and energy on activities that align with your values and goals.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

If you don't know how to make yourself happy, try to make someone else happy. This creates a virtuous cycle of happiness.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

To find a worthy mate, focus on becoming worthy yourself. Work on self-improvement until you no longer need someone else to complete you, and then the right person will appear.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

When the student is ready, the master appears. This means you must work on yourself and be prepared for good things to happen.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Waking up naturally is crucial for a peaceful start to the day. It's better to sleep near a window or skylight to let natural light in, which acts as a gentle alarm clock.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Switching your alarm ringtone to something pleasant, like wind chimes, can significantly improve the quality of your mornings.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Sleeping with an eye mask can enhance sleep quality, as it blocks out light and creates a more conducive sleeping environment.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

We are evolved to sleep with our tribe, and loneliness can stem from being disconnected from our roots. Building a supportive community is essential for mental well-being.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

Desire is a contract you make with yourself to be unhappy until you get what you want. Being aware of this can help you choose your desires more carefully.

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Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

In any situation, you have three options: change it, accept it, or leave it. Wishing for change without action leads to misery.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

The most important thing is to accept your circumstances. This mindset can alleviate a lot of unnecessary suffering.

NR

Naval Ravikant

10/29/15

@ Tim Ferriss

I encourage everyone to share the one book that has had the greatest influence on their life, as personal insights can be incredibly valuable.

Naval Ravikant — The Person I Call Most for Startup Advice | The Tim Ferriss Show (Podcast)

Takeaways