Over the past 10 days I have covered - society and how modernisation has contributed to an increase in loneliness subsequent increase in mortality and decrease in overall happiness. Diversity and the incredible impact of being open to diversification and learning more about every possible alternative aspect of life. Vulnerability and how can contribute strongly to growth and enabling true authenticity. Losing sight and how we should never lose sight of what we have. The feeling of nothing and how sometimes in life we just feel nothing, and that’s ok, traversing these nothingness emotions helps us find balance and understanding of ourselves. Fresh water and its correlation to the circle of life, embracing nature and understanding our place. Machiavelli, a 15th century Italian philosopher and somewhat controversial figure. Dancing and how expression through dance can open and allow us the ultimate freedom and finally say 150! It’s been a wonderful journey and to reach this milestone and look back has been a great experience.

Society - The erosion of communal relationships in modern society has resulted in increased loneliness, reduced interaction, and decreased connection, leading to higher mortality rates as a consequence of our own actions, highlighting the importance of maintaining deep-rooted connections and actively seeking to create and sustain tight communities in the search of happiness.

Diversity - The prevalence of diversity is seen in every aspect of the world, from every community, family, and workplace throughout history, showcasing a complex evolution of unique diversification that seems limitless, and embracing this diversity not only contributes to personal growth and happiness, but also fosters a sense of unity and compassion that transcends boundaries.

Vulnerability - In embracing vulnerability, despite the risks it may pose, new paths for personal growth and genuine connections with like-minded individuals can be unlocked, ultimately leading to a greater sense of happiness and fulfilment in life.

Losing sight - It is important to remember and appreciate what we have, as failure to do so can lead to complacency, loss of perspective, and potentially losing everything, highlighting the significance of gratitude in our pursuit of happiness.

Nothing - Sometimes we find ourselves in a state of nothingness, where we feel neither euphoria nor despair, and that's okay; it can serve as a way to maintain composure and navigate through life's uncertainties, allowing us to flow down the river of nothingness until the next incoming current brings us a new emotional state to reassess.

Fresh water - The circle of life, specifically the replenishment of fresh water through evaporation, cloud formation, and rain, is a remarkable occurrence completed by Mother Nature daily, with water holding memory and driving the engine of the world, reminding us of our dependency on this cycle and the importance of recognizing and appreciating the natural processes that sustain us, contributing to our search for happiness and fostering gratitude and contentment in our lives.

Machiavelli - Niccolo Machiavelli, a 15th-century philosopher from Florence, Italy, advocated for rulers to prioritize power and stability over moral considerations in his famous work "The Prince," suggesting that deception and violence may be necessary to achieve and maintain power. However, I question whether such tactics ultimately lead to self-defeat and hinder the attainment of true objectives, as we must consider the potential harm to others and the preservation of collective positivity in our pursuit of power. Machiavelli's focus on unwavering determination and the importance of internal dialogue and conviction are valid, but if we subject others to disarray, we may fail to achieve the desired outcomes.

Dance - Expressing yourself freely and dancing without concern for how others perceive you is a liberating and deeply satisfying experience, but modern society's hierarchical structure has created a fear of authentic self-expression and hindered the ability to fully release and connect with one's inner being. By incorporating dance into my morning routine, I have discovered a deeper connection and a sense of release that goes beyond simply the act of dancing, but rather the freedom to let myself and my body roam without external pressures.

150 Not Out - yesterday marked a significant milestone in my journey, as I reflect on the power of consistent devotion and the importance of progress and improvement, even without knowing the final destination. Starting this blog felt right, and each day I continue on this journey teaches me something new about life, myself, and the world around me, making success the knowledge gained along the way. Happiness lies in understanding oneself, embracing simplicity, and living in the present moment, as we all have the potential for fulfilment within us, connected yet uniquely individual.

Over the past 10 days, I have learned a lot, found myself in a state of nothing, discovered a deep sense of universal connection through dance and self-expression, reflected on nature's wonders and our place in the world, and achieved another significant milestone, which I am super stoked about. It has been an insightful few days, and as the days continue to progress and I learn more about myself and the world around me, I feel more and more on the right path. The question remains: a path to where?

Thanks,

Dean