What is Modern Cynicism?
Let me answer two questions here:
Why does this blog exist?
Why should you care?
By profession, I am a Software developer and have overcome extreme poverty.
Just like Newton’s three laws explain mechanics, I have summarized human psychology into three laws:
1. Humans act out of self-interest, which can be both financial and emotional, and may operate consciously or subconsciously.
2. The subconscious mind is primarily focused on ensuring our survival. It prioritizes tasks it perceives as contributing to survival, regardless of whether the threat is real or perceived.
3. To understand human behavior, we must analyze two factors: Power and Motivation. How much power someone has, and what drives their actions?
Premise of My Theory
The foundation of my theory is an updated version of Cynicism, which I call Modern Cynicism.
Here, selfishness is not only justified but also essential for understanding human behavior. I treat emotions as valid rewards alongside financial ones, which helps explain why humans act the way they do. This leads to less uncertainty and a clearer mental model of human behavior. The theory aligns with psychological egoism, where all actions are motivated by self-interest.
Use the Full Potential of the Subconscious Mind
Our subconscious mind is mainly focused on ensuring survival. And it plays a central role in my theory.
This idea draws from evolutionary psychology and explains why certain habits—especially those critical for survival—are prioritized. However, the subconscious can sometimes be misled by stimuli like social media notifications, which create a false sense of urgency.
Since the subconscious operates based on its natural programming, it’s crucial to reflect on our experiences and consciously rewire these patterns. This process, known as habit formation, allows us to realign our behavior with our actual goals. By reprogramming the subconscious, we unlock a far greater power than our conscious mind can offer, boosting our productivity and efficiency.
Learn Once, Use Everywhere
In today’s fast-paced world, many people operate on autopilot, unaware of how their mind really works. They rely on mental models that are either outdated or overly complex, which leads to confusion and uncertainty. Without understanding the underlying motivations driving their decisions, they remain stuck in patterns they can’t fully control.
The goal of my theory is to equip you with principles that you can apply universally across various areas of life—whether it's personal growth, relationships, or professional challenges.
Once you master these principles, you can apply them consistently to make smarter decisions and maintain clarity in different situations, without needing new solutions for each problem.
Drawing Lessons from Geo-politics
I take inspiration from how nations conduct diplomacy and war, which parallels interpersonal relationships.
This strategic thinking leads to a more open-minded approach to interactions and conflict resolution. Just as countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, individuals must manage power dynamics in their relationships, while maintaining their long-term interests.
Two Key Elements: Self-Awareness and Risk Assessment
Self-awareness and risk assessment are two fundamental elements of this theory.
Through journaling and reflection, we gain insights into our thoughts and behaviors, helping us identify areas for improvement. Unlike traditional self-help practices that require rigid routines, I advocate for a more flexible approach, encouraging you to take notes whenever significant thoughts arise.
This method is particularly suited for busy professionals who need an adaptable system for personal growth.
The Pursuit of Happiness
At the core of this theory is the prioritization of happiness over all else.
By programming our subconscious to focus on the right things—whether personal goals, relationships, or career aspirations—we can achieve success while enjoying each moment. Happiness, when pursued consciously and strategically, becomes not just a reward but a constant presence in our lives.
In summary, my theory offers a pragmatic and modern take on Cynicism, blending psychological insights with strategic thinking to create a system that promotes both efficiency and personal fulfillment. By understanding and leveraging the subconscious mind, we can lead happier, more productive lives while embracing self-interest as a force for good.
Can You Relate?
Do you struggle to make confident decisions and often feel overwhelmed by too many options?
Do you find yourself constantly distracted, pulled in different directions, or unsure of where to focus your energy?
Are you tired of complex self-help advice that never seems to solve the root of your problems?
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of overthinking, procrastination, and indecision, unsure of how to break free?
Do you wish to understand your mind at deeper level?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, this newsletter is for you.
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