Interesting Lectures, Awesome Cartoons

It's not hard to be inspired by the double-rainbow guy, but if you're looking for something more cerebral, but equally entertaining I suggest checking out some of the lectures and accompanying cartoons at the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufacturers, and Commerce (RSA). Sounds like a very dry organization, but I was very inspired by the following vids:

Smile or Die



I've encountered this idea of "positive thinking" as being a destructive force in our culture before and I find it compelling. I am a realist in my outlook on the world and yet I am often confused for being a pessimist by more up-beat people. I embrace it to a certain extent, I do proudly drink coffee at work from my pessimist's mug. Most people can't grasp the concept of a continuum between optimism and pessimism, just like they can't grok he idea of a wide political spectrum, so if given a false dichotomy go ahead and file me in the pessimist category.

The Secret Powers of Time



How do you view time? I fall somewhere in the Past Negative / Present Hedonistic categories. I enjoy the slower pace of life here in Eugene, Oregon. I struggle with the feeling that I am somehow less mature than people who are future oriented or enjoy a faster pace of life, because the prevailing culture is that way. I think this talk helped me realize that about myself.

Drive



I found this talk very relevant as well. I've always wondered why I'm not more motivated by money alone. I guess I'm still striving for mastery and purpose in my life.

What do you think?