Practical Steps To Speak Like A Philosopher, Live Like An Emperor, and Think Like An Artist
An extract from my article "Reclaim The Lost Art of Communication"
My content here is often long-form. So I’ve decided to extract key ideas and share them in shorter, more digestible portions. Enjoy!
Intro
Not long ago, we used language with clear, formulated sentences and words appropriate to their particular context. However, it would not be remiss to state that the younger generation of today speak with a crippling emptiness. Most have lost the art of communication en masse. It would be rare to hear speech that did not consist of those abysmal verbal fillers - ‘bro, ngl, wyd, like, um, er’ - I won’t torture you further.
I’ve written about this in full in my article Reclaim The Lost Art of Communication which you can read here.
FULL ARTICLE: RECLAIM THE LOST ART OF COMMUNICATION
But if you want some of the steps I’ve taken to combat this trend, divorced of context, here they are.
The Steps
We need to fill in the gaps and be the change we wish to see.
Like-minded readers, I implore you to take charge of your education, communication, and attention. And if you are a parent, it is of utmost importance that you be as involved in your child’s education as you can, especially their life!
Read “dated” books.
The books you’d cringe at for being too ‘old’ or archaic, or strange. Pay attention to the language present and emulate. If you want help on expanding your vocabulary, then read my article on the apps I use as I mention how I use Apple Notes, Remnote, and lookup to continually expand my vocabulary. Now, so you’re not lost, I’ve compiled reading lists for you which you can access for FREE here.
In the alternative to that, go to a large physical library and ask a librarian for books about your interest area. I say this because every lazy-bodied person will search online for them. They will then read the same thing. Then they will think the same things. I want you to be different and unconventional.
Start a word bank. And test yourself on it weekly.
I’ve been keeping track of new words I derive from reading and from deliberate searching (language test prep books) and noting them down for 4 years now. I’ve then imported these into a Remnote database which I then quiz myself on using an integrated flashcard system, which improves memory and retention of the words. I also require written text answers and custom examples so I’m engaging in the recitation process. Learn more about how to do that here.
Record yourself speaking your thoughts every day/week.
You’ll identify your filler words like a sore thumb and be traumatised by hearing both your own voice and those fillers and ultimately reduce their occurrence.
I do this on my fasted walks for several reasons. First, ideas come to mind when I walk but I don’t like typing. So, I record them on my Apple Watch using transcription from an app called Bear (I’ve since changed this procedure to something much more efficient using AI). Second, walking magically brings out those stored mental tasks that I like to purge for greater clarity. Third, I’m SPEAKING! Which is considerably important for actioning all the reading, word-training, and thought improvements.
Journal.
Journalling clears the mind, offers an opportunity to practice new words, like (Schadenfreude), and when you do it the way I do, provides insights as to your personal growth, emotional tendencies, and repressed beliefs when reviewed in hindsight.
I use a journalling app called Day One. I set it up with particular templates that make it a greatly optimised system for me and also have a review system and planner to track my growth.
I’ve created a custom journalling template that fuses the maximisation of potential with psychology and self-improvement to ensure you actually gain something useful from journalling. You can find it here.
Embody a lifestyle that appreciates and cultivates beauty, art, meaning, creativity.
Be the person who books tickets to an art exhibition.
Be the person who gifts a book.
Be the person who tapes 50 pages of words onto their walls (guilty).
Be the person who seeks out a book club, or creates their own (this newsletter).
BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE.
Cover Image by GDJ sourced here.
Products and Resources
The Multifaceted Journal Template
Description: a practical system that addresses the common challenges associated with journaling, providing a purposeful and consistent approach to self-reflection. Designed around simplicity and depth, the template features 5 questions that structure your journey towards self-discovery, planning, and psychological development inspired by Jungian Psychology. When implemented alongside a viewing of my video 'How I Journal for Conscious and Unconscious Clarity', you'll be equipped to change who you are through understanding who you are.
Link: Click Here
The Multifaceted Weekly Planner
Description: not just a standard, bland tool for productivity, but a thoughtful system – incorporating reflection, task-allocation, and time-blocking – designed to help you effectively achieve your goals and maximise your potential. Created by myself based on how I organise my life as a violinist, composer, director, designer, and law student, it's designed to organise all the various aspects of your life into a single location to actualise your ideal self.
Link: Click Here
Note: I use affiliate links for some referrals. This means, at no cost to you, I receive a small commission.
The Multifaceted Reading List [FREE]
Description: This reading list contains the 11 books that I believe will equip you with:
A better understanding of yourself and psychology.
The importance of unconventionality.
The importance of masculinity and polarity with the feminine.
A greater, deeper, and richer worldview and perspective of life.
Great examples of literary creativity.
Link: Click Here
Note: I use affiliate links for some referrals. This means, at no cost to you, I receive a small commission.