Ricardo Villarreal

Think, Therefore Think Again

Reaching Utopia, If We Want To

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Utopia BannerWhy have we been working harder and harder despite being richer than ever? Why are millions of people still living in poverty when we are more than rich enough to put an end to it once and for all? These are questions the Dutch historian Rutger Bregman asks in his eye-opening book Utopia for Realists.

In other words, if we could reach a state of Utopia (one where everybody is rich, safe, and healthy), why haven’t we achieved it? For Bregman, one of the main things has to do with politics being stuck in a type of redundancy where immediate problem management hasn’t allowed room to engage the public with radical ideas to solve long-term goals.

Bregman mentions capitalism did in fact open the gates to create wealth and abundance, but it wasn’t enough. Progress is more than just amassing wealth, but it’s about having the wisdom to understand how to live well, and how we achieve a utopic scenario where everyone does well.

Radical ideas are needed, and very soon, as accelerating technologies, advanced automation, aggressively competitive online retailers, and Artificial Intelligence systems continue to disrupt many industries all over the world threatening millions of jobs into the future.

The author proposes three main ideas to reach Utopia: an unconditional basic income, a shorter workweek, and open borders. These ideas may sound radical (because they are) but make a lot of sense economically and meaningfully.

Universal Basic Income

There have been many studies in different parts of the world where a guaranteed unconditional basic income constantly shows very promising outcomes, resulting in reductions in crime, child mortality, malnutrition, domestic violence, teenage pregnancy, and showing improved school performance, economic growth, and gender equality. Children are the big winners, suffering less from hunger and diseases, and reducing the threats of becoming victims of child labor.

Not only were the outcomes very positive, but the studies also showed that negative perceptions many have on universal basic income are not true. Arguments like “giving people free money will make them lazy” or “they will spend the money on alcohol and tobacco” turned out to be false. The results showed exactly the opposite: a decline in consumption of alcohol and tobacco, and having an extra cash enabled people to work harder. As Bregman states, poverty is fundamentally about a lack of money, not about stupidity.

A very revealing part of the book on this subject is when Bregman shares how the United States was so close to pass a modest basic income in 1970 through President Nixon’s Family Assistance Plan. The House of Representatives approved the bill by an overwhelming majority, but it failed in the Senate opposed by Democrats. Since then, there hasn’t been a similar proposal, but today the topic has been covered more frequently, with even a Democratic candidate for president, Andrew Yang, proposing universal basic income as his main policy.

A Fifteen-Hour Workweek

For the past decades, technology and automation have helped us produce things way faster than ever. Things that would have taken days or weeks to make are now being done at a smaller fraction of time. However, it seems this hasn’t reduced our working hours, or, to put it in a different way, it hasn’t freed more of our time for leisure activities.

Pioneers of this idea in the early 20th century, Henry Ford and the cornflake magnate W.K. Kellogg, decided to experiment with reducing their employees’ working hours. Soon enough, they realized their workers were not only more productive at work, but happier to have real leisure time to spend with family and doing hobbies.

But as Bregman expands, a shorter workweek has benefits that go far beyond the individual level. It can help solve unemployment through work sharing (including the aging population), it can help reduce stress (people that work fewer hours are more satisfied with their lives), it can help reduce the effects of human-made climate change (shorter workweek cuts CO2 emissions), and among other things, it promotes gender equality (as house chores are better divided).

You may be wondering how do we start working fewer hours? Well, this is certainly not going to happen overnight, but we need collective efforts from policy makers, companies, and persuade the public to shift paradigms and break away from traditional ways of thinking.

Open Borders

In a world of globalization, we feel more connected to other countries and cultures. We can find imported goods from all over the world at stores, we can interact online with pretty much every country, we watch foreign films and listen to world music. Everything seems to move around internationally… except people. According to the author, only 3% of the world’s population lives outside their country of birth.

How beneficial would it be living in a world with open borders? A study conducted by Michael Clemens from the Center for Global Development shows an estimated global GDP growth ranging from 67% to 147% deriving from global labor market migration. According to Bregman, opening borders to labor would increase wealth by sixty-five trillion dollars, making this also the most effective measure to solve world poverty.

Today, a newborn baby’s future chances of succeeding in life depend greatly on which country they are born, not on their own merit or contributions. And that’s partly because borders discriminate and continue furthering the inequality gap. Scientists at the World Bank report that if all developed countries would let just 3% more immigrants, the world’s poor would perceive an extra $305 billion. And even though today open borders would seem a long shot to achieve (especially with far-right country leaders), we must support politicians who understand that a gradual implementation of labor migration flow can help advance progress and fight poverty.

In conclusion, I think Rutger Bregman has written a very important book that has made a lot of people think about these remarkable ideas which, if implemented, could help make the world a better place. But as he quotes John Maynard Keyes, “The difficulty lies, not in the new ideas, but in escaping from the old ones.”

 

 

Seven Leadership Lessons from Hemingway’s “The Old Man and the Sea”

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Skiff at SeaErnest Hemingway’s epic story of Santiago, an experienced old fisherman determined to change his luck by sailing into the deep sea with the goal of making the biggest catch of his life, is one that shares with us so many enriching lessons on life, but also on leadership.

On the most intense and vivid passage of the novel, our lonely hero struggles at sea for three gruesome days against a giant marlin in a live-or-die battle that will bestow the greatest personal triumph for Santiago.

Here’s my take on the 7 most valuable leadership lessons Ernest Hemingway shares on this masterful narration.

1. Knowledge is more Powerful than Strength

In preparation for his journey, Santiago tells the young boy and loyal assistant Manolin, “I may not be as strong as I think, but I know tricks and I have a resolution.”

Understanding his surroundings at sea, the behavior of wind and weather patterns, the time of day, and the different combative movements of the fish once caught in the line, helped Santiago be more strategic, resourceful, and wise on his decisions to dominate the strength of the marlin.

If he had used only his strength, he would have gotten weak and exhausted very quickly unable to defeat a bigger, faster, and stronger fish, and would have eventually failed.

2. You can’t do Everything Alone

At several times during the epic struggle, the solitary Santiago wishes his young friend Manolin was present to help him. Particularly the boy could have assisted him as he got tired and needed to rest, or when he started feeling severe cramps.

Once the giant marlin was caught and secured on the side of the skiff, Santiago had to repeal several aggressive shark attacks on the marlin. Having a helping hand could have prevented the unfortunate ensuing damage.

3. Respect your Rivals

Even though the old fisherman fully understands the rivalry he is facing against the marlin, he never humiliates the big noble fish. Quite the opposite, Santiago has a deep admiration for the marlin’s dignity and beauty, and often refers to the fish as his brother and friend.

In fact, after having caught and killed his worthy opponent, there are instances of regret where Santiago feels sorry for what he has done. But self-reflecting about his place in life gives him some peace:

“You were born to be a fisherman as the fish was born to be a fish… You did not kill the fish only to keep alive and to sell for food. You killed him for pride and because you are a fisherman. You loved him when he was alive and you loved him after.”

4. Fight with what you have

As the old man embarks on his return with his big catch, the fight is not yet over. He now must battle with sharks wanting to eat his fish and ruin his extraordinary conquest.

Having lost his harpoon and realizing his unfavorable situation, Santiago wishes he had a stone for his knife and were better armed. But he couldn’t stop in the middle of the fight to think how he could have done better.

“Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is.”

It is useless to spend any time on the “what ifs” and better to focus on maximizing your resources and abilities.

5. Don’t Rely on Luck

Additionally, we hear “luck” mentioned a couple of times throughout the book. As the old man embarked on his adventure, he thought to himself while at sea, “It is better to be lucky, but I would rather be exact. Then when luck comes you are ready.”

Even though luck is always welcome, we can’t depend on luck to help us come out victorious. However, readiness and determination are more likely to get us there.

6. Be Inspired by a Hero

Santiago loved baseball, and he idolized the Yankees’ star Joe DiMaggio. The old man identified with him personally, not only because he was the son of a poor fisherman, but because DiMaggio also struggled with a serious injury in his career before making a triumphant comeback.

Thinking of the great DiMaggio during his brutal fight gave Santiago the motivation and confidence he needed to endure his hardship at sea.

7. Never Give Up

The old man had gone eighty-four days without catching a fish, but this didn’t deter him. On the contrary, it gave him the courage to try harder and risk it all by going into the deep sea, where no other fisherman had gone.

Santiago then braved the match of his life catching a giant marlin; an insurmountable accomplishment he earned through patience, intelligence, skills, and determination. If this wasn’t enough, on his return he heroically confronted a shiver of sharks who ultimately devoured his fish, leaving only the meatless skeleton from tail to nose.

But losing the fish meat was no longer relevant. During his battle against the sharks, he tells himself, “man is not made for defeat… a man can be destroyed but not defeated.”

The old man returned to land with the giant carcass tied on the side of his boat, and his triumph duly recognized as the people in town were astonished to see the largest catch ever made.

8. Dreams of Lions

I’ll add an eighth lesson, which is related to life more than leadership. The old man frequently dreams of lions, referring to a time in the past when he was a young boy sailing in Africa mesmerized by seeing lions on the beaches.

This was a time of his life when he felt happiness and pride. The symbolism Hemingway uses here is obvious as a group of lions is called a pride.

The sea as with life, is a place full of risks and rewards, where we can find our hopes and fulfill our dreams, where we find our friends and our enemies, where we can fail or come out triumphant.

Life is made of memorable moments and it’s important to focus and continue creating moments that bring value to our lives, that make us better people, that give us the opportunity to love and improve the lives of those around us, and that give us a sense of accomplishment and happiness.

For when we reach the end of our lives, we can look back and say, “well done.”

 

Let’s Talk About Your “Haters”

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Match FireI don’t know if it’s originally a millennial term, but for the last few years I hear more and more the term “haters” being used in professional settings, especially with entrepreneurs.

The top definition for “hater” in Urban Dictionary says, “a person that simply cannot be happy for another’s person’s success.”

But I have also seen entrepreneurs wanting to feel important by having “haters” that they erroneously label people that provide some kind of criticism as “haters.”

It’s a fact, entrepreneurs can be very passionate about their projects and very protective of their ideas and leadership style. Many times to a point where they become blind to their erratic decisions or refuse to see or accept any flaws.

When talking to people about their business and asking for advice, many entrepreneurs don’t really want honest feedback, unless it’s positive or in a form of praise.

And so, when someone provides them with criticism, and that valuable feedback doesn’t please them, the entrepreneur is oftentimes quick to label the critic a “hater.”

It’s important to realize here that some of the harshest criticism you’ll receive will actually come from people who truly want you to succeed, not from “haters.” Be humble and open to this valuable insight.

Now, I’m not saying that all feedback you get will be good for your entrepreneurial objectives, but you should always conduct yourself appreciative and professionally.

Even better, know how to filter criticism, use it to your advantage, and turn it into something good; it may lead to positive results or spark new ideas to improve your business.

But when you put yourself in a position where you can’t take any criticism, you risk isolating yourself into an imaginary world of “me vs my haters”, where talking frequently about them becomes pernicious to your wellbeing while making you look weak.

When you put too much emphasis on your “haters” you are not only wasting valuable time and losing focus on your original business goal, but your objectives start shifting in the wrong direction as you give more importance to your “haters” by making your desire to beat them part of your goals.

Instead, convert that energy to drive you and your business forward.

Concentrate on the people you work with who rely on your leadership, focus on your clients whose positive experiences on your products and services are helping you grow your business, and focus on the investors who have put their trust in you believing in what you do.

Any amount of time spent on your “haters” is counterproductive. Additionally, your audience doesn’t care nor wants to hear about them, so quit talking about them on your social media posts or in public conversations.

If, on the other hand, there are people begrudging you in the openness of social media, don’t resent them, and don’t make their problem your problem. Continue with your life focusing on those that truly matter to you.

Dale Carnegie said it brilliantly, “no one ever kicks a dead dog.” If people are talking about you, take it as a great indicator that you are doing something valuable that is getting people’s attention.

The best way to avoid criticism is to do nothing and be a nobody, but as long as you are an entrepreneur who wants to accomplish big things, know that you’ll hardly be immune to criticism.

Learn that, although you may not have control over how people perceive and treat you, you do have absolute control over your reactions towards them and on how you let their actions affect you.

When you fully dominate this, you will see instantly that the “haters” have been reduced to nothing, becoming insignificant in your life.

 

How plutocracy and religion are killing American democracy

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Statue of LibertyIt’s happening. The guy at the very top position of power is threatening the foundations of liberal democracy in our country by paving the way for plutocracy and religion to perpetrate in the functions of the government.

We need to continuously remind people who is this enabler: a self-called billionaire who lacks all the important skills to be president, a revengeful leader, ignorant of the country’s constitution, who continuously lies to the public, who has shown no respect for minorities, who doesn’t take any criticism, and who has even singled out the media as the enemy of this country.

Sure, democracy has room for improvement. Nevertheless, it is still the best form of government and we need to protect it now more than ever.

The current administration shines not for having the smartest individuals at the top jobs, but for their wealth. Their biggest merit is certainly not a qualification at all.

It is, however, the fuel that feeds plutocracy. The ultra-wealthy people in this nation help elect those in government, and in return gain the power to secure cabinet roles and to influence political decisions that would protect their interests and businesses, rather than the interests of the general population.

Not only that, but they think money and power give them the right to impose their beliefs on others. And this is how plutocratic forces amplify the dangers of religion and the risks it represents to our freedom and democracy.

For example, the presence of religion in politics has influenced legislation that has negatively impacted the rights of women and minorities on issues like abortion and gay marriage.

In education, politicians of faith in many states have tried to impose religious subjects in public schools as alternative to science. This is a clear reflection of the fear they have that scientific knowledge presents indisputable evidence and objective truths that undermine the validity of their religion.

There is no question religion thrives in an environment of ignorance, fear, and oppression. But suppressing science, reason, and truth is not an option.

Where does religion belong? In the privacy of individuals, not commandeering the functions of government, and certainly not becoming an obstacle in the exercise of freedom in an open society.

Only in a secular government can diversity, freedom of religion, equality, and a fair rule of law can coexist, while protecting democracy from any abuse, discrimination, and corruption that would favor one religion over the rest.

Rather than imposing beliefs, it is better for a country to have a society of free-thinkers, where ideas can be exchanged freely with an open mind.

The founders of the American Constitution believed in the idea that dialogue, not force, should triumph over the decisions pertaining the prosperity of the nation.

But the current leader of this country does not believe in dialogue. On the contrary, he has prevented arguments against him, demands his opinions to be unquestionable, and has even fired those who challenge him.

The moment you impose censorship upon the opinions of others (especially minorities), you open the doors to intolerance and the creation of fanatical bigots. And unfortunately, that is exactly what we are seeing happen today.

This is not a matter of political ideology. It is a matter of preventing the rise of a dictator-like figure threatening to destroy the democratic foundations of our nation.

It is not an exaggeration, and we cannot wait to act until it’s too late.

 

Is Success an Enemy to Your Happiness?

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Success and Happiness CloudsIn most work environments success is defined in several ways, including the accomplishment of business goals, working for a big name organization, amassing substantial wealth, obtaining job promotions, receiving honors, enjoying material luxuries, and so on.

Most of these triumphs, in the modern global society we live in, are individual in nature and often consummated in a stressful scenario of competition.

To be clear, competitive success can be good when it genuinely challenges us to be better persons improving our professional growth, but not when it becomes a self-inflicted pressure with the whole purpose of outshining our neighbors and colleagues.

Just as success can be a part (I repeat, just a part) of our happiness, it can also contribute to our unhappiness if we don’t understand what to make of it.

Putting too much emphasis upon competitive success can be detrimental and can leave us emotionally empty if we cannot find what value it gives to our lives.

Work that is poisoned by a false sense of competition can lead to envy, where instead of deriving pleasure from what you have, it derives pain from what others have. Don’t fall into this trap; avoid such superficial comparisons that can blind you to see how truly fortunate you are in life.

But, what is success really? The meaning of success for me could be completely different than yours. And that is perfectly fine.

When you widen your mind and your interests, when you listen to your heart and your true self, and when you put the things you care about and the people that truly matter to you in the right place in your life, you will be closer to defining your success. It doesn’t have to be something complex.

In fact, success for me is as simple as achieving life balance, where all the key ingredients of life contributing to our happiness receive equal importance in their own time.

When it comes to professional life, the quality of the work I do and the positive impact it has in contributing to the betterment of society are very important to me in measuring success. I have never been attracted to a good paying job whose responsibilities are essentially trivial for humanity.

No matter what profession you may have, you can find a way for it to be successfully rewarding while achieving excellence and meaning. And with it, happiness.