The question of the meaning of life has been debated for centuries by philosophers, theologians, and scientists alike. While there is no single answer that satisfies everyone, one perspective is that the purpose of life is to improve and progress, adding value to the world around us.
This perspective was recently brought to light by an eight-year-old boy named Jayden Tran, who asked his father, “Why do we do so much?” referring to the various activities he and his younger brothers are involved in after school. In response, Jayden’s father explained that life is about self-improvement and progress, and that the more we improve ourselves, the more we can contribute to the world.
This answer is particularly fitting for Jayden’s question, as it speaks to the importance of hard work, discipline, and personal growth. By engaging in various activities after school, Jayden and his brothers are not only learning new skills and developing their talents, but they are also expanding their perspectives and becoming more well-rounded individuals. This process of self-improvement not only benefits them individually, but also has the potential to positively impact those around them.
In addition to personal growth, this perspective on the meaning of life also emphasizes the importance of adding value to the world. By improving ourselves, we become better equipped to make meaningful contributions to our communities and society as a whole. This can be through our work, our relationships, or even through small acts of kindness and generosity.
Ultimately, the meaning of life is a personal and subjective question that each individual must answer for themselves. However, the perspective of self-improvement and adding value to the world is a powerful one that can inspire us to work hard and make a positive impact. As Jayden’s father wisely explained, “More value creation in self, more you can add.”
Di Tran’s reflection on avoiding all forms of negative news and media channels is truly inspiring. In a world where media bombardment is constant, and negativity sells, it takes courage and conviction to take control of what we allow into our minds. The benefits of this kind of discipline are immense, and Di Tran’s experience is a testament to that.
Benefit: saved time
One of the most significant benefits of avoiding negative news and media is the amount of time it saves. Time is a precious commodity, and we often do not realize how much we waste on mindless scrolling through social media or watching TV. By avoiding negative media, Di Tran has freed up countless hours that he can devote to self-improvement, reading, and spending quality time with his family.
Benefit: protection of the conscious mind
The second benefit of avoiding negativity is the protection of the conscious mind. Our minds are like sponges, and what we allow into them shapes our thoughts, beliefs, and ultimately our behavior. Negative media feeds our subconscious mind, which is the source of all our stress, anxiety, and depression. By avoiding negativity, Di Tran has cleansed his mind of toxic thoughts and replaced them with positive ones.
Benefit: more memory storage for positive experiences
The third benefit is the ability to reserve our brain’s memory storage for positive experiences. Our brains have limited storage, and every negative experience we allow in takes up valuable space that could be used for positive memories. By avoiding negativity, Di Tran has created more room for positivity, joy, and beauty in his life.
Benefit: find new focus in self-improvement
The fourth benefit is the ability to devote time to self-improvement and personal growth. With all the time he has saved, Di Tran has been able to read more books, attend self-improvement training, and meet people who share his positive mindset. He has also devoted time to serving his community and learning new skills in areas of his expertise.
Benefit: happier life
The fifth benefit is the ability to be happier with family. By avoiding negativity, Di Tran has created a more positive and happy environment for his family. He can spend quality time with them, free from the distractions of negative media.
Benefit: pursue new projects
The sixth benefit is the ability to pursue new projects and opportunities. By freeing up his time and mind from negativity, Di Tran has been able to pursue new projects that he never thought he could. He has also been able to focus more on his work and small business, leading to greater success and fulfillment.
Di Tran’s reflection on avoiding negativity is a lesson for us all. It takes courage and conviction to take control of what we allow into our minds, but the benefits are immense. By avoiding negative news and media, we can free up time, protect our minds, reserve our memory storage, devote time to self-improvement, be happier with our families, and pursue new projects and opportunities. As Di Tran puts it, “Positive thinking is fostered through positive information feed, positive affirmation, and positive environment surrounding, and resources. It is a constant effort daily with mediation and self-talk with self-God from within.”
Di Tran’s Audio book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS”
Learning is an ongoing process that never stops. We are constantly seeking knowledge, and we do so in different ways. However, the importance of being receptive to learning cannot be overemphasized. It’s crucial to acknowledge that no one can be taught something they are not ready or willing to learn.
Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” knows this concept well. He was taught about the growth mindset, the importance of serving others, and thinking rich by his mother for years. However, it wasn’t until Di had read over 200 books on mindfulness that he fully understood and embraced these teachings. This serves as a powerful reminder that we must have a foundation and an open heart to be able to accept knowledge and apply it in our lives.
Di Tran’s story is one of perseverance and self-discovery. For 41 years, he searched for the key to unlock his potential and embrace a growth mindset. His mother’s teachings were valuable, but it took time for him to internalize them fully.
Di Tran’s journey of learning and growth is highlighted by his lunch with his family for the weekend. Di’s mother once again reminded him to focus on others, think rich, and live rich. However, for the first time, her words “rang the bell” with him. He realized that all the mindfulness books he had read emphasized the same ideas his mother had been teaching him for years. This realization gave him a newfound appreciation for his mother’s teachings and a deeper understanding of the power of mindfulness.
Di Tran’s story emphasizes the importance of being receptive to learning and having an open heart. We must set a solid foundation for ourselves before we can expect to learn effectively. This involves developing a positive mindset, being receptive to change, and having a growth-oriented attitude. We must take ownership of our learning journey and lay the groundwork for our personal and professional growth.
Di Tran’s story serves as an inspiration to all of us that with the right mindset and a willingness to learn, we can achieve great things and make a positive impact in the world. We must actively seek knowledge with an open heart and an eagerness to grow. Learning is a lifelong process, and it is never too late to start or too early to embrace the idea of learning actively.
Self-improvement is a vital aspect of personal growth and development. It involves making conscious efforts to enhance one’s abilities, knowledge, and behavior to achieve a better version of oneself. In this pursuit, one can strive to be better than their previous self, rather than comparing themselves to others. As the famous quote goes, “Better is best when it’s better than self before.”
This quote highlights the importance of setting personal goals and continuously improving oneself to achieve them. Self-improvement requires self-awareness and a willingness to acknowledge one’s weaknesses and work on them. The process of self-improvement involves continuous learning, practicing new skills, and seeking feedback to refine oneself. As author and motivational speaker, Brian Tracy once said, “Personal development is a major time-saver. The better you become, the less time it takes you to achieve your goals.”
Books such as “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey and “Atomic Habits” by James Clear provide practical strategies for self-improvement. Covey’s book emphasizes the importance of developing habits that align with one’s values and goals. It encourages readers to take a proactive approach to their lives, focus on what they can control, and continuously work towards self-improvement. Clear’s book, on the other hand, focuses on the power of small, incremental changes in building better habits that lead to significant improvements in one’s life.
In addition to striving for self-improvement, it’s also essential to be mindful of one’s behavior towards others. The second quote, “Be a little less interfere and a little less notice-me,” emphasizes the need to practice humility and avoid imposing oneself on others. This quote implies that self-improvement should not be at the expense of others’ comfort or well-being.
The book “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle highlights the importance of being present in the moment and focusing on the needs of others. Tolle emphasizes that the ego is responsible for selfish behavior and encourages readers to practice mindfulness and compassion towards others. Similarly, the book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie provides practical tips for building meaningful relationships based on empathy, understanding, and respect for others.
Self-improvement is a continuous process that involves personal growth and development. It’s essential to strive to be better than one’s previous self and continuously work towards achieving personal goals. However, it’s also crucial to be mindful of one’s behavior towards others and practice humility and compassion. Books such as “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” “Atomic Habits,” “The Power of Now,” and “How to Win Friends and Influence People” provide practical strategies for self-improvement and building meaningful relationships based on empathy and respect for others. As author and speaker Jim Rohn once said, “The only way things are going to change for you is when you change.”
In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” Di Tran provides a compelling argument for the importance of focusing on others and serving them rather than being self-centered. The book emphasizes the benefits of prioritizing others in all aspects of life, including relationships, career, and personal growth.
Throughout the book, Di Tran emphasizes the need to take action and avoid excessive talk. This aligns with his mother’s quote, “Talk less and just do.” This quote highlights the importance of taking practical steps towards serving others rather than just talking about it.
“Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” is a thought-provoking book that provides practical insights and strategies for serving others and achieving personal growth. Di Tran’s emphasis on action and practical steps aligns with his mother’s quote, emphasizing the importance of taking tangible steps towards serving others rather than just talking about it. This book serves as a reminder that when we shift our focus from ourselves to others, we not only improve our own lives but also make a positive impact on the world around us.
The foundation of life can be summarized in two simple words: purpose and appreciation. Purpose in life is the driving force that keeps us motivated and focused, while appreciation of life allows us to enjoy the journey and find meaning in our experiences. When these two elements are combined, they form a powerful recipe for true happiness and joy in life.
Purpose in life can be different for each individual. It can be a career, a hobby, a personal goal, or even a simple act of kindness. Whatever the purpose may be, it is important to have a clear understanding of what it is and why it matters to you. When you have a purpose in life, you have a reason to wake up every day and work towards something that you find meaningful and fulfilling.
However, purpose alone is not enough to achieve true happiness and joy in life. Appreciation of life is equally important. This means taking the time to recognize and be grateful for the blessings in our lives, no matter how big or small they may be. It means finding joy in the present moment and cherishing the memories that we create along the way.
Here are five quotes and books that further illustrate the importance of purpose and appreciation in life:
“The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
This quote emphasizes the importance of having a purpose that goes beyond personal happiness. It encourages us to strive for something that will make a positive impact on the world around us.
“The happiest people don’t have the best of everything, they just make the best of everything they have.” – Unknown
This quote highlights the importance of appreciation in finding happiness. It reminds us that true happiness comes from within, and that it is possible to find joy in even the most challenging circumstances.
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
This book is a powerful testament to the importance of purpose in life. It tells the story of the author’s experiences as a prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp, and how he was able to find meaning and purpose in the midst of unimaginable suffering.
The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu
Happiness in the moment and now
This book offers insights and wisdom from two of the world’s most respected spiritual leaders. It emphasizes the importance of finding joy in the present moment and cultivating a sense of gratitude and appreciation for all that life has to offer.
The Power of Purpose: Find Meaning, Live Longer, Better by Richard Leider
This book explores the connection between purpose and longevity, and how having a clear sense of purpose can lead to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. It offers practical strategies for discovering your own purpose and living a life of meaning and significance.
Purpose and appreciation are the foundation of a truly happy and fulfilling life. By identifying our purpose and cultivating a sense of appreciation for all that life has to offer, we can find joy and meaning in even the most challenging circumstances. With the help of these quotes and books, we can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of purpose and appreciation, and learn practical strategies for living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
In conclusion, we have explored the importance of purpose and appreciation as the foundation of a fulfilling life. However, achieving this state of mind can be challenging, especially when we are plagued by negative thoughts and feelings. That is why I would like to encourage you to check out Di Tran’s books: “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs” and “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”. These books offer practical strategies and insights for overcoming negative thoughts and focusing on what really matters in life – our relationships with others and our faith in ourselves and the world around us. By taking the time to read or listen to these books, you can gain valuable insights into how to live a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. So, I invite you to take action today and invest in your personal growth by exploring these powerful resources.
Di Tran’s 41st birthday marks a new chapter in his life, as he reflects on his past accomplishments and looks forward to new adventures. Having recently authored the book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” and soon releasing “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran has gained valuable insights and wisdom that he hopes to share with others.
While there are many cultural and societal beliefs surrounding age 40, Di Tran believes that it’s a time to focus on others and let go of self-centeredness. In “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” he encourages readers to shift their perspective and consider the needs and well-being of those around them. This shift in focus can lead to greater empathy, stronger relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
Di Tran’s upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” further explores the idea of letting go of self-doubt and trusting in a higher power. As he approaches his 41st year, Di Tran believes that it’s essential to have faith in oneself and in the universe, even in the face of uncertainty and challenges. This attitude can lead to greater resilience, a more positive outlook, and a deeper sense of purpose.
For Di Tran, turning 41 is not about being “over the hill” or experiencing a midlife crisis. Instead, it’s a time to celebrate all that he has accomplished and to look forward to new opportunities for growth and learning. He believes that everyone’s experience of turning 40 will be different, and he hopes that his books can offer guidance and inspiration to those who are seeking a new perspective on life.
In summary, Di Tran’s 41st birthday is a time of reflection and growth, as he shares his insights and experiences with others through his writing. By focusing on others and letting go of fear, he hopes to inspire others to live a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Di Tran – Q/A for an Author’s books
When you first moved to the United States, what did the American Dream mean to you?
To me, it meant the freedom to express myself without fear of government suppression. It also meant the ability to share my knowledge and beliefs, as well as pursue economic opportunities. I was grateful for the fact that what I own belongs to me, and not to the government.
For how long have you been living in the USA?
28 years since 1995
What was the biggest challenge you faced when you first arrived in the USA?
The language barrier and the pressure of adjusting to all the new things.
What was your experience like when you first arrived?
Although we knew that the country would offer a better life, it wasn’t exactly as we had imagined in our dreams. Starting with only $400 in our pockets for a family of 5, and without being able to communicate in English with anyone, we were faced with a daunting challenge that was both worrying and challenging. Nonetheless, we remained optimistic and grateful for the opportunities that awaited us in this new country.
Can you describe your journey to the USA?
I came with my cousin who is mixed of an American military personnel. His son was coming home to the USA, and he kindly took us along since our family had helped raise him.
Have you achieved your American Dream?
Absolutely, every day since we first landed here. For example, we ate our first hotdog and burger, even if it was a new experience. We slept on our first mattress, even if it was dirty. We saw snow for the first time walking out of the airport and met people from many other nationalities in the first week. It felt like the whole world was in Louisville, KY, USA.
What challenges did you face to achieve your American Dream?
Although hard work is required everywhere, hard work in America is easier because we knew that good results would come. In Vietnam, effort given did not always lead to good results in a communist country. Therefore, hard work was not a challenge for us to achieve our American Dream.
How did you overcome the challenges you faced in pursuing your American Dream and what surprised you the most?
The key was to constantly learn and take action, always being in survival mode. We anticipated that everything would be new, so nothing was truly surprising, but of course, with every challenge and hard work, there were moments of failure. However, we learned to embrace those failures and use them as opportunities to grow and move forward in life.
What skills did you have to learn to achieve your American Dream?
Education was key to achieving our American Dream. We had to learn new skills and gain knowledge through both life education and formal education. Fortunately, we were able to take advantage of free secondary education and partially free post-secondary education (college) for low-income individuals.
What challenges did you face in becoming a professional in the USA?
Language was the biggest challenge for me, and my inherent shyness made it even more difficult.
How did you make professional connections in the USA?
I made a concerted effort to be out and about, and I worked hard to build credibility by serving others. By doing this, I was able to establish relationships and make connections with professionals.
What did you do to connect with the right professionals?
As I moved along, I learned to filter and identify the professionals who could best help me achieve my goals within the limited time I had available.
How did you achieve your American Dream?
I achieved my American Dream through hard work and continuous learning.
How did you become successful?
I became successful by never giving up on working hard and learning constantly. Making progress towards my goals gave me happiness.
In your opinion, what mindset is necessary for someone pursuing the American Dream to learn, survive, connect, grow and succeed in the USA?
The mindset of an American Dreamer is all about taking action. Instead of just thinking about things, you have to learn and apply what you learn.
What advice would you give to someone who is eager to move to the US to experience the American Dream?
I would advise them that the USA is a great country to live in, and it offers many opportunities for success. However, success comes from hard work, and if you’re not willing to put in the effort, then it doesn’t matter where you are in the world.
How would you describe the things in your life that you appreciate and feel thankful for?
To put it simply, I am grateful for life itself. The fact that I am alive is a blessing, and this holds true no matter where you are in the world. However, it is easier to appreciate this in America because basic needs such as food, education, and time are more readily available.
References to Di Tran’s Interview
Rotary Club of Louisville – Di Tran Presenter – The Debt to be Paid: Giving Back and Paying It Forward
I am supporting my good friend Selma Jacinto Dominigos with her current and future books
I am looking forward to Selma Jacinto Domingos’ second book.
