Category: Early Childhood Education

Language is Not the Barrier; We Are

Post author By Di Tran
Post date August 8, 2023

Di Tran’s profound reflection, “Language is not a barrier, we are the barrier to think language is the barrier”, is a gentle reminder of the power of non-verbal communication and human connection. At the heart of this assertion lies the idea that while language is undeniably an essential tool for communication, it is not the sole factor determining our capacity to understand or be understood.

The Power of Non-Verbal Communication

Dr. Albert Mehrabian’s study in the 1970s introduced a now widely-referenced concept: when verbal and non-verbal communications are incongruent, people rely more on non-verbal cues than words to determine meaning. According to Mehrabian’s rule, words constitute only 7% of the overall message, with tone of voice accounting for 38% and body language a whopping 55% (Mehrabian, 1971). In other words, while the words we use are critical, how we say them and our body language can convey even more about our feelings and intentions.

One can easily spot the validity of these findings in everyday scenarios. For instance, when two individuals greet each other, a warm, genuine smile can immediately bridge the gap of unfamiliarity—even if they don’t share a common language. A simple gesture of open arms can signify acceptance, while leaning forward can denote interest and engagement.

The Impact of Cultural Literacy

While understanding body language can transcend language barriers, it’s also vital to recognize the influence of cultural differences. As Edward T. Hall mentions in his book, “The Silent Language” (1959), different cultures have their own set of unspoken rules and interpretations of personal space, gestures, and body movements. What might be seen as a welcoming gesture in one culture could be considered rude or intrusive in another.

In light of this, genuine interest in and respect for diverse cultural norms is essential. This approach not only facilitates clearer communication but also fosters deeper connections between individuals of different backgrounds.

Breaking Down Self-imposed Barriers

Di Tran’s reflection also brings attention to the psychological and sociological barriers we create for ourselves. We often anticipate difficulty in understanding someone from a different linguistic background, even before making an attempt. In “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively”, Helio Fred Garcia notes that our preconceived biases, fears, or misconceptions can create more significant communication impediments than any actual language differences.

Conclusion

Language, while a crucial element of human communication, is just one facet of a multidimensional system of interaction. Non-verbal cues—be it a smile, a nod, or an extended hand—hold the potential to connect souls. As we move forward in an increasingly globalized world, embracing the power of non-verbal communication, while being mindful of cultural nuances, can help us break down the barriers we’ve constructed. After all, genuine human connection transcends mere words.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Early Childhood Education Self-Improve

The Rhythms of Modern Parenthood: Nurturing Future Leaders

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 26, 2023

In the fast-paced, technology-driven era that we inhabit, modern parenthood is an intricate dance of complexities. Amidst the cacophony of work commitments, personal endeavors, and the ceaseless whirlwind of child-rearing, today’s parents find themselves in the unique role of nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. This article will explore the essential role that focus plays in guiding children toward a promising future.

Modern parents, much like maestros conducting a symphony, orchestrate the harmonious balance between nurturing their children’s unique interests and maintaining their professional responsibilities. Each child, with their distinct personality and burgeoning talents, demands a different melody of guidance. An older child might be enamored with books, a middle one drawn towards music, and a younger one enthralled by the wonders of exploration.

In guiding these distinct personalities, parents become more than caregivers—they morph into educators, mentors, and guides. Late-night tutoring sessions become opportunities to feed young, eager minds. Hours spent transporting children from school to music lessons or sports practice become valuable moments to impart life lessons and values.

Parental focus on their children’s education and talents shapes these young lives significantly. It cultivates an environment where the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth is valued and encouraged. It also lays the foundation for children to be successful individuals in their chosen fields in the future. More importantly, it helps them develop into well-rounded human beings who understand the importance of hard work, perseverance, and compassion.

As parents navigate the intricate maze of modern parenthood, they keep their gaze fixed firmly on the future. Their vision is one of a world where their children, equipped with knowledge, grounded in morals, and inspired by faith, make a positive difference. This relentless focus on the future, combined with an undying faith in their children’s potential, fuels the parents’ tireless efforts and constant support.

In this quest, parents also introduce their children to the spiritual dimensions of life, underpinning their worldly lessons with a grounding in faith. Faith, whether it’s in a higher power, in humanity, or in the laws of nature, adds depth to their children’s understanding of the world. It provides a moral compass guiding them to be virtuous, compassionate, and humane leaders of tomorrow.

In the grand tapestry of life, it is the unwavering focus and steadfast faith of parents that helps weave the narrative of their children’s future. It is a future envisioned to be bright and filled with potential, a future where their children are not just successful, but also valuable contributors to society.

Navigating modern parenthood’s intricate pathways is indeed an uphill climb. Yet, by keeping the focus firmly on their children’s growth and future, parents worldwide are raising a generation ready to face challenges, overcome obstacles, and make the world a better place. In doing so, they are ensuring that the symphony of life continues in harmony, resonating with the melodies of love, faith, and relentless dedication towards nurturing the future.

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The Pursuit of Self-Knowledge in Major Religions: A Path Towards Spiritual Growth

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 21, 2023

The quest for self-knowledge is a ubiquitous theme that transcends geographical borders and cultural contexts, intricately woven into the fabric of various religious and spiritual traditions worldwide. Rooted in introspection, self-awareness, and spiritual enlightenment, this pursuit of understanding oneself echoes the universality of human experience. Below, we delve into the concept of self-knowledge in Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Taoism, and Islam, illustrating the importance of this fundamental quest and providing guidelines to aid individuals in this journey.

Buddhism

In the Buddhist tradition, self-knowledge is a crucial step towards achieving enlightenment or Nirvana. The practice of Vipassana, or insight meditation, is often used as a tool for introspection. By observing one’s thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgement, individuals can gain a profound understanding of the transient nature of self, leading to the realization of Anatta, or non-self.

Steps Towards Self-Knowledge in Buddhism:

Practice mindfulness in everyday life, staying present and fully engaged in each moment.
Meditate regularly, focusing on your thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations.
Cultivate detachment from personal desires and aversions.

Christianity

In Christianity, introspection is seen as a pathway to acknowledging one’s sins and the need for God’s grace. Christian mysticism often involves a journey inward, seeking a deeper understanding of the relationship with God.

Steps Towards Self-Knowledge in Christianity:

Practice prayer and contemplation, fostering a deeper connection with God.
Engage in self-examination, acknowledging your sins and shortcomings.
Seek guidance and wisdom from Biblical teachings and Christian mentors.

Hinduism

In Hindu philosophy, self-realization or Atman Jnana refers to the knowledge of the true self, or Atman. This understanding transcends the physical body and mind, connecting the individual with the ultimate reality, or Brahman.

Steps Towards Self-Knowledge in Hinduism:

Practice meditation and Yoga to calm the mind and foster introspection.
Study sacred texts like the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita, which offer insights into the nature of the self.
Seek guidance from a spiritual teacher or guru.

Taoism

Taoism emphasizes understanding oneself as a means to live in harmony with the Tao, the natural order of the universe. The Tao Te Ching advises, “Knowing others is wisdom, knowing the self is enlightenment.”

Steps Towards Self-Knowledge in Taoism:

Practice mindfulness and meditation, focusing on the flow of Qi, or life force.
Embrace simplicity and contentment in life, reducing desires and attachments.
Study Taoist texts and philosophies to gain deeper insights into the Tao and the self.

Islam

In Islam, self-knowledge is considered a means to understanding and revering Allah. A saying (Hadith) from Prophet Muhammad encapsulates this: “He who knows himself knows his Lord.”

Steps Towards Self-Knowledge in Islam:

Engage in regular prayer (Salat) and contemplation, fostering a deeper connection with Allah.
Read and reflect upon the teachings of the Quran.
Strive to live according to Islamic principles, promoting self-discipline and introspection.

Across these varied religious landscapes, the pursuit of self-knowledge is a common thread, reflecting our innate desire to understand our place in the world and our connection to the divine. Through introspection, mindfulness, prayer, and the study of sacred texts, individuals can embark on this journey of self-discovery, nurturing their spiritual growth and fostering a deeper understanding of their faith.

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The Power of Quality in Action: The Pivotal Role of Problem Solving in Business and Life

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 8, 2023

In the rapidly evolving world of business and in our daily life, questions are not merely queries but problems that demand solutions. They are the riddles of our existence and the challenges that shape our journey, both personally and professionally. These questions, once properly identified, frame the path towards finding solutions and creating value. But how do we identify these questions, and how can we ensure that our solutions are not just practical, but optimal?

The answer lies in the quality of our questions, a concept that has been profoundly elaborated by Di Tran in his influential book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. He stresses the significance of faith and belief in driving high-quality action, underlining the importance of overcoming our fear and harnessing our courage to ask the right questions and find the best solutions.

##The Quality of Questions: The Seed of Quality Action

As business owners, questions aren’t mere curiosities; they are the problems that require innovative and effective solutions. But not all questions are created equal. The quality of your question is often directly proportional to the quality of the solution it will generate.

A high-quality question is one that is clear, concise, and directly addresses the issue at hand. It needs to be specific enough to guide action, yet broad enough to inspire creative problem-solving. It should challenge assumptions and encourage out-of-the-box thinking.

For instance, instead of asking, “Why is our product not selling?”, a more quality question might be, “What aspects of our product or marketing strategy might be misaligned with our target customer’s needs and preferences?” This question not only offers a more detailed investigation into the problem but also opens multiple avenues for solution exploration.

##From Quality Questions to Quality Solutions

The next step in this progression is to move from quality questions to quality solutions. These solutions, in turn, form the value that you, as a business owner, will provide to your customers or stakeholders. This value is your currency in the world of trade, whether that trade is conducted in a market, a boardroom, or even within a family setting.

High-quality solutions are typically those that are effective, efficient, innovative, and sustainable. They not only address the immediate problem but also consider the broader implications, providing long-term benefits while minimizing potential drawbacks.

##Quality in Action: Faith and Belief

Di Tran’s work emphasizes the important role of faith and belief in driving quality in action. Fear often hinders us from asking quality questions and seeking quality solutions. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of the unknown – these all limit our ability to innovate and evolve.

By dropping fear and focusing on faith, we foster a mindset that encourages risk-taking, nurtures creativity, and champions resilience. Faith in our abilities, in our team, and in the value of our work empowers us to ask those challenging questions and to seek innovative, effective solutions.

In conclusion, the quality of action is not an isolated phenomenon. It is a chain that starts with the quality of the questions we ask. These questions, when crafted with diligence and care, lead to quality solutions that create significant value in our business and personal lives. And driving this entire process is our faith – faith in our abilities, faith in our journey, and faith in our potential to create a positive impact.

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A Fusion of Faith, Fear, and Fresh Perspectives: A Reflective Journey with Di Tran

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 8, 2023

The imminent release of Di Tran’s book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” is a much-anticipated event that has been making waves in both literary and personal development circles. In it, Tran draws from his own experiences and insights, effectively connecting them with ideas presented by experts such as Emad Mostaque and Peter Diamandis. More importantly, Tran emphasizes the groundbreaking and often disruptive impact outsiders can have on any industry, thus providing a fresh perspective on how innovation truly happens.

One of Tran’s key reflections is the significant role that non-industry individuals play in facilitating breakthroughs and viral ideas. Tran aligns his thoughts with those of Mostaque and Diamandis, both of whom believe that the true catalyzers of change are often those who come from outside the industry. These outsiders bring a fresh perspective that isn’t inhibited by industry norms, traditions, or prescribed ways of thinking. Their innovative, even unorthodox ideas and questions can stimulate incredible, industry-altering changes.

However, Tran goes a step further by observing that expertise, in many instances, can be a barrier rather than an enabler of innovation. He points out that experts can become ‘NAY’ – No sayers. This happens when they confine themselves within their area of specialization, limiting their perspectives and stunting the growth of novel ideas. These experts build their knowledge and understanding over time, often leading to a form of intellectual complacency that can hinder their ability to think outside the box.

Moreover, Tran digs deep into the fear that haunts many industry insiders – the fear of losing their hard-earned expertise and status. These individuals have dedicated years to their field, earning respect and recognition, which can understandably be difficult to let go. There is a fear of having to continue to study, evolve, and adapt, as well as a fear of facing new challenges that could risk their status quo.

What Tran argues for, is not the complete dismissal of expertise or experienced professionals, but rather a shift in mindset and approach. His call to “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH” invites us to adopt an open-minded, fearless approach to new ideas, whether they come from inside or outside our field of expertise. It’s a call to trust in the power of innovation and continuous learning, even when it challenges our established notions.

In essence, Tran is inviting all of us, regardless of our field of expertise, to look at the world with fresh eyes. He prompts us to overcome our fears, venture outside our comfort zones, and welcome new perspectives and ideas. He also implores us to have faith in our ability to adapt, grow, and evolve. With this mindset, we can turn great questions into great ideas, and in the process, become not just experts, but innovators, disruptors, and drivers of change.

“Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH” is not just a book. It’s a manifesto for those willing to challenge the status quo, to embrace the power of diverse ideas, and to create a future where innovation and creativity are not just welcome but are the new norm.

Harnessing the Power of Faith Over Fear: A Comparative Study of Tony Robbins’ Messages and Di Tran’s “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith”

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 7, 2023

When it comes to personal development, Tony Robbins stands out as one of the most recognized names, with teachings that have reached and transformed the lives of millions worldwide. Robbins’ key messages on motivation, progress, and overcoming destructive emotions resonate powerfully with the principles encapsulated in Di Tran’s soon-to-be-released book, “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith”. This article seeks to align the philosophies of these two influential figures, demonstrating how their combined insights can serve as a beacon for personal growth and life satisfaction.

Tony Robbins asserts that “progress equals happiness”, a maxim that distills his belief in the joy and fulfillment derived from forward movement and goal attainment. Yet, Robbins cautions that the euphoria accompanying a goal’s achievement is often ephemeral, spanning a duration from six hours to six months. As this sense of accomplishment wanes, individuals find themselves embarking on a new journey to seek progress at the next level.

In his teachings, Robbins identifies two potent emotions that often wreak havoc in our lives: anger and fear. His antidote? Gratitude. Robbins underlines the importance of daily practice, recognizing that cultivating a consistent attitude of gratitude is neither innate nor enduring without conscious effort. This routine of thankfulness acts as a powerful counter to the potentially corrosive effects of anger and fear.

Di Tran, in his upcoming book “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith”, shares a perspective that aligns with Robbins’. Tran exhorts readers to shed the constraints of fear and to embrace faith instead. He encourages individuals to disentangle themselves from their past, to challenge perceived boundaries of possibility, and to transcend the limitations of the ‘how’.

Tran proposes that our current understanding is intrinsically limited, frequently leading us to label the unfamiliar or new as impossible, thereby breeding fear. To counteract this, he emphasizes the need to focus robustly on the ‘what’ and the ‘why’, relegating the ‘how’ to a secondary concern. Allowing the intimidating specter of the ‘how’ to loom too large at the outset can stifle dreams and ambitions.

The remedy, according to Tran, lies in developing an unwavering conviction in the ‘what’ and ‘why’, trusting that the ‘how’ will gradually unravel as we forge ahead. This process demands a fearless commitment to our vision and purpose and an unyielding readiness to risk all for our goals.

Both Robbins’ and Tran’s philosophies converge on the idea that the purpose of setting goals is not merely their attainment but the personal growth and transformation they stimulate. Robbins defines the quality of life by the meaning and contribution we derive from it, a sentiment echoed in Tran’s encouragement to center faith in our endeavors. This shared philosophy underscores the belief that our goals should serve as catalysts for individual and collective improvement.

In conclusion, the teachings of Tony Robbins and Di Tran converge on themes of progress, personal metamorphosis, and the transcendence of fear through the nurturing of gratitude and faith. The insights from Robbins’ messages, intertwined with the principles articulated in Di Tran’s “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith”, provide a compelling guide for those seeking purposeful, fulfilling, and lasting happiness. Their philosophies serve as a potent reminder that our potential is unlimited, bound only by the depth of our faith and the extent of our gratitude.

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Di Tran’s Deep Gratitude: The Tri Ân Monument Legacy

Post author By Di Tran
Post date July 6, 2023

Di Tran, a proud board member of Tri Ân and author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” stands on the brink of another significant achievement with the imminent release of his new book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.” As an influential figure within the Vietnamese-American community in Louisville, Kentucky, Tran is an individual of deep-rooted values and indomitable spirit.

On this July 4th weekend, as the United States celebrates its Independence Day, Tran finds himself standing on the site of the nearing completion Tri Ân Monument at Veterans Memorial Park in Jeffersontown, Kentucky. This particular setting seems emblematic of his life’s journey – a testament to freedom, gratitude, and shared heritage.

As Tran describes himself, he is a “version 1.5 immigrant,” born and educated in Vietnam until the age of twelve, after which he migrated to Louisville, KY. Here, he completed his secondary education and went on to earn multiple college degrees, showcasing his relentless dedication to self-improvement and resilience.

For Tran, America stands as the top country on Earth – a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and strength. Being part of the Tri Ân Monument, especially under the leadership of fellow Vietnamese immigrants and revered Vietnam veterans, is an overwhelming experience for him. The presence of esteemed military generals, for whom Tran holds deep respect, elevates the importance of the project for him.

The Tri Ân Monument, with its towering walls, is a palpable representation of Tran’s Vietnam roots. Its stones, twice the height of Tran and sourced directly from Vietnam, symbolize the gratitude he feels towards Vietnam War veterans from both his birth and adopted countries. The phrase “Tri Ân” means “deep gratitude” in Vietnamese, an emotion Tran profoundly resonates with.

This monument, due for completion in October 2023, isn’t merely a physical structure. It’s an enduring generational signature for the Vietnamese community in Louisville, KY, and across the United States. It’s a tribute to America, the nation that has given them so much, and a token of gratitude to the brave soldiers who protected freedom and democracy.

Di Tran hopes that the Tri Ân Monument will also serve as a teaching tool for young Vietnamese-Americans. It is a concrete symbol of their ancestral roots and their present lives, reminding them of the importance of hard work, gratitude, and giving back to the United States. As Tran so often emphasizes, the monument embodies the spirit of dropping fear and focusing on faith.

The Tri Ân Monument and Veterans Memorial Park can be visited at 10707 Taylorsville Rd, Jeffersontown, Kentucky 40299. Its profound message of gratitude and unity reverberates well beyond its physical boundaries, reaching the hearts and minds of those who understand its significance. As it stands, it is a testament to the dreams, struggles, and triumphs of immigrants like Di Tran, who continue to write their remarkable stories in this land of the free.

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Shedding Fears, Embracing Faith: A Guide to Personal Transformation

Post author By Di Tran
Post date June 28, 2023

In his upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH”, Di Tran enlightens readers on the vital journey of personal transformation and self-realization. Di Tran explores how we often limit our potential by submitting to various fears that stem from prolonged exposure to restrained thinking and societal norms.

Small thinking has a domino effect on our lives. Being around ‘small’ for too long cultivates a fear of loneliness, a fear of blazing our unique trail, and an anxiety of being excluded from a group. These fears are deeply ingrained in our psyche and restrict us from reaching out for what we truly desire or who we genuinely aspire to be.

Tran articulates that sometimes our rapid growth may lead to discomfort among our peers. Our advancement could serve as a stark reminder of their stagnation. This distance that grows can create an apprehension of no longer being valued or being left behind by the group we were once part of.

One of the most influential factors holding us back is the pressure to conform. We are often expected to slow down, maintain our current pace, and stay within predefined lanes to fit into societal expectations. This desire to ‘belong’ can be a shackle that stunts our growth and hinders our progress.

With these fears entrenched, the notion of seeking and integrating into a new group or breaking into a new category becomes all the more daunting. Yet, this step is crucial on the path to personal transformation. The fear of this unknown territory can be intimidating, but embracing it can pave the way for substantial personal growth.

In his insightful book, Di Tran also delves into the fear of quitting — of being perceived as weak or a failure, especially when pitted against others’ achievements. This fear can lead to a relentless pursuit of goals we aren’t genuinely interested in. As Tran questions, why should we continue to climb a mountain that we have no desire to conquer, especially when the view from the top holds no appeal for us?

The urge to validate ourselves in others’ eyes often pushes us into endeavors without a meaningful cause or purpose. This unnecessary proving ground can exhaust our potential and energies. Tran prompts readers to shift their focus from proving their worth to embracing their passions and finding a purpose that genuinely resonates with their inner selves.

“Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH” emphasizes the importance of faith in our journey. As Di Tran suggests, it is essential not to prove but to have a purpose, not to conform but to have faith in one’s unique journey. By dropping the various fears that bind us, we can shift our focus to faith – faith in our growth, our unique path, and our potential.

Di Tran’s book provides a holistic and empowering approach to personal transformation. By focusing on faith, embracing our fears, and following our purpose, we can indeed drop the fears that have held us back for so long. This shift from fear to faith can open up a world of possibilities, setting us on a path to living an authentic, fulfilling life.

Shedding fears is not an easy task. It requires determination, resilience, and above all, faith. However, as Tran emphasizes, the journey is worth it. So, let’s drop the fear and focus on the faith!

Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Early Childhood Education Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve

A Family Tradition: A Colorful Connection to Vietnamese Culture and Love

Post author By Di Tran
Post date June 25, 2023

For Di Tran, author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” and his wife, Vy Truong, their journey of cultural preservation and familial bonding begins in a vibrant and fragrant venue – their kitchen. It is here that they engage in a tradition that is as colorful as the culture from which it stems – preparing Vietnamese sticky rice.

Di Tran, a passionate writer who encourages shifting the focus from self to others, uses this culinary tradition as a platform to weave lessons of selflessness and consideration into his family’s routine. As Tran and Truong mold their family life, the sticky rice serves as a canvas, vividly illustrating their shared cultural heritage and values.

The process commences with their sons focusing on their homework, embodying Tran’s belief in the significance of diligence and commitment. The moment their work is complete, the air seems to fill with anticipation. The boys approach their mother with earnest faces, their request for the beloved sticky rice sweetened with three to five gentle kisses, underlining the importance of expressing love and affection.

The act of cooking Vietnamese sticky rice, or “xoi ngot,” is a cultural performance. A delicacy known for its radiant hues, sticky rice is a metaphorical feast of Vietnamese history and tradition. As the Tran-Truong family gathers to create this dish, they are immersed in a spectrum of colors that tell the vibrant story of their heritage.

In Vietnamese culture, each shade of the sticky rice holds a symbolic meaning. The green rice, tinted by the juice of pandan leaves, represents a fresh start and growth. Yellow, achieved through the use of turmeric, signifies wealth and success. Red, a color infused by gac fruit, is a symbol of love and passion. Through these colors, Di and Vy not only cook a dish but also depict a narrative of their roots.

In the Tran-Truong kitchen, the sticky rice’s preparation is an immersive family affair. Vy, a seasoned home cook, instructs her sons on the nuances of this traditional dish. She guides them through selecting the rice, soaking, and finally, steaming it. She then shares the unique process of naturally coloring the rice, revealing the botanical secrets behind the green, yellow, and red hues.

In these shared moments, the children do not merely learn to prepare a dish; they connect with their culture on a deeper level. The lesson surpasses culinary skills; it’s a vivid illustration of their heritage, an education in patience and precision, and a reminder of the value of hard work and love.

Once prepared, the multicolored sticky rice is not just a meal—it’s a cultural tapestry woven with ingredients that narrate tales of Vietnamese history and traditions. Every mouthful serves as a flavorful reminder of their ancestry, a testament to the richness of their heritage.

In their quest to sustain their culture, Di Tran and Vy Truong are nurturing their children’s understanding of their roots, integrating it with lessons in hard work, family love, and respect for one’s heritage. The sticky rice tradition in their household is a tangible, tasteful, colorful connection to Vietnam.

This practice is more than cooking; it is a heartfelt act of cultural preservation, an effort to instill their cherished values in their children. It is a generational gift from the heart of Vietnam, shared over dinner, passed from one generation to the next, ensuring the richness of their heritage remains a vibrant part of their family’s narrative.

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Unraveling Human Decision-Making: A Comprehensive Exploration of Emotions, Intelligence, Values, and Faith

Post author By Di Tran
Post date June 25, 2023

Di Tran, a promising author, shares profound wisdom in his soon-to-be-released book, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH”. His quote, “Everything we do, is triggered by our emotion, guided by our intelligence, based on our core value, and confident based on faith”, is a profound exploration of the driving forces behind human decision-making. This article delves into each of these factors, providing research-based evidence supporting Tran’s profound observation.

1. Triggered by Emotion

Emotion, as Tran suggests, acts as a primary trigger for our actions. It’s an integral part of our decision-making process. This assertion is supported by several studies. A 2014 research paper by Lerner, Li, Valdesolo, and Kassam shows that emotions significantly influence decision-making, shaping our judgments and choices (1). The authors argue that individual emotions, both positive and negative, influence different types of decisions, a theory known as the Appraisal Tendency Framework.

2. Guided by Intelligence

Human intelligence guides our emotions, helping us process and respond appropriately. Intelligence isn’t just about knowledge; it also includes our ability to understand, apply, and manage emotions – a concept known as emotional intelligence. Salovey and Mayer (1990), pioneers in the field, defined emotional intelligence as “the ability to monitor one’s own and others’ feelings and emotions, to discriminate among them and to use this information to guide one’s thinking and actions” (2). As such, intelligence plays a crucial role in how we perceive, process, and act upon our emotions.

3. Based on Core Values

Core values form the foundation of our actions, guiding our behaviors, and influencing our decisions. Schwartz’s theory of basic values (1992) highlights ten broad values that humans tend to hold. These include self-direction, stimulation, hedonism, achievement, power, security, conformity, tradition, benevolence, and universalism (3). These values, although individually prioritized differently, steer our actions and decisions. For example, a person who prioritizes benevolence may act in ways that benefit others, even if it means personal sacrifice.

4. Confidence Based on Faith

Finally, Tran emphasizes the role of faith in providing confidence in our actions. Faith can be spiritual, religious, or simply a belief in something greater than oneself. It can foster resilience, provide a sense of purpose, and contribute to personal growth. Numerous studies have found a positive correlation between faith and mental health. Koenig (2009), for instance, suggested that religious faith can help people cope with stress, providing a stable platform for confident decision-making and action (4).

In conclusion, Di Tran’s insightful quote encapsulates the complex, multifaceted nature of human decision-making. The interplay between emotion, intelligence, values, and faith creates a dynamic, robust framework that governs our actions and reactions. It’s a profound reminder of the intricate factors that make us uniquely human, offering opportunities for self-reflection and understanding.

References:

Lerner, J. S., Li, Y., Valdesolo, P., & Kassam, K. S. (2014). Emotion and Decision Making. Annual Review of Psychology, 66, 799-823.
Salovey, P., & Mayer, J. D. (1990). Emotional intelligence. Imagination, cognition and personality, 9(3), 185-211.
Schwartz, S. H. (1992). Universals in the content and structure of values: Theoretical advances and empirical