Deep Life Reflections: Friday Five
Issue 78 - Look Back: Part 2
Welcome to Issue 78 of Deep Life Reflections.
I continue my travels in Spain, and this week, I'm writing from Murcia, a university town in southeastern Spain. Known as ‘Europe’s orchard’ for its rich agricultural heritage, Murcia was founded by Abd ar-Rahman II, Emir of Cordoba, in 825, and famous for its fresh produce, fruits, and flowers. Of course, like much of Spain, the food here is delicious.
Continuing from last week, I’m looking back at some key themes from previous issues as I travel, giving you the opportunity to revisit past insights or explore ideas you might have missed the first time. I hope these reflections spark new thoughts, and as always, I’d love to hear your feedback.
Join me as we look back in this week’s Friday Five.
The Nature of Ambition - Issue 27, August 25, 2023
In this edition, I explored the dual-edged nature of ambition: how it drives us forward while reminding us of the need to take stock and celebrate our achievements, both big and small. I discussed one of my favourite books on ambition, The Perfect Mile by Neal Bascome, which captures the relentless pursuit of Roger Bannister to become the first person in history to break the 4-minute mile barrier. It’s a brilliantly told story.
Staying with that theme, I also explored the Oscar-winning film Whiplash, about a brilliant young jazz drummer whose obsession with perfection drives him into a frenzy. In the reflection that week, I considered the fine line between healthy ambition and self-destruction. That week’s quote came from Salvador Dali, who knew a thing or two about talent and ambition.
Experimenting - Issue 26, August 18, 2023
In this edition, I revisited the ever-relevant balance between work and leisure. Inspired by an article in The Atlantic by Simone Stolzoff, The Moral Case for Working Less, I explored the idea that true leisure isn’t simply about recharging to enhance productivity—it’s an end in itself, offering genuine wellbeing and value.
I also analysed the Academy Award-winning documentary American Factory, which shines a fascinating light on the cultural complexities between Chinese and American workers coming together in a car factory. In that week’s reflection, I considered how the concept of ‘Productivity’ has evolved in our tech-driven world and introduced the idea of ‘slow productivity’—a more sustainable and thoughtful approach to work. There’s also a reflective question for you to consider.
I hope you enjoyed this second look back through Deep Life Reflections. Perhaps these two topics have given you some food for thought regarding the role they play in your own life. Thanks as always for reading and being part of the Deep Life Journey community. Have a great weekend.
James
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