John Iduh Blog

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Seth Godin is always right.

One of his Blog posts, " Don't Steal Revelations" has this for this lesson to teach: Learning is a journey that begins with recognizing our own limitations. First, we become aware of something we don’t know. Next, we acknowledge that improvement is possible, even though we aren’t skilled at it yet. Then, through effort and understanding, we achieve success. The process repeats. When learning is reduced to merely presenting information and testing recall, it lacks depth. True learning happens through action—when we solve problems ourselves, the knowledge is more likely to stick than when answers are simply given to us. The role of a teacher is to create an environment where students can navigate their own uncertainties long enough to discover something valuable.

How does focus leads to excellence?

According to Daniel Goleman, focus is essential for achieving excellence because it allows individuals to harness their attention effectively and direct it toward meaningful goals. In his book Focus: The Hidden Driver of Excellence , Goleman explains that focus operates on multiple levels and plays a critical role in fostering success. Here's how focus leads to excellence: Deep Work and Skill Development : Sustained attention enables individuals to practice deliberately, which is essential for mastering complex skills and achieving high levels of expertise. Emotional Regulation : Focus helps manage emotions, reducing distractions caused by stress, anxiety, or impulsivity. Emotional self-control allows individuals to stay on task and maintain productivity. Empathy and Social Awareness : Focus on others' emotions and needs enhances interpersonal skills and collaboration, which are vital for success in personal and professional domains. Goal Clarity and Execution : A f...

Normativism

Most political normative doctorines as what ought to be. But I see normativism as an imagination of a better world. Normativism as the Imagination of a Better World This is so because, Normativism is fundamentally about envisioning how society could be improved, guided by ideals of justice, morality, and equity. At its core, normativism should critique the present reality, challenging existing systems and practices (the world as it is) by proposing alternatives rooted in ethical principles, so we can reconstruct the world as it should be. This imaginative approach fosters a vision of a better world, often inspiring action to bring about societal transformation. By focusing on imaginative world, rather than the positivism of what "is," normativism provides a framework for progress, driving humanity toward more equitable and just systems. One of the key strengths of normativism is its ability to transcend the limitations of the status quo. It allow...

What is Biri marung?

Biri marung" is a term in Chewa/Nyanja, a language spoken in Zambia, Malawi, and parts of Mozambique. It directly translates to "hyena in the sky" or "flying hyena. It is often used in folklore and traditional beliefs in African cultures to refer to supernatural beings or mysterious occurrences, particularly those associated with witchcraft or spirits. In music, "Biri Marung" is a popular Amapiano track released in November 2024 by South African artists Mr Pilato, Ego Slimflow, and Tebogo G Mashego, featuring Sje Konka, Focalistic, DJ Maphorisa, Scotts Maphuma, and CowBoii. The song has gained significant attention, with its official audio available on YouTube. Additionally, it has been featured on various music platforms, including Apple Music. The track has also inspired dance challenges and covers on social media platforms like TikTok, contributing to its viral status. "Biri Marung" has been recognized for its impact in the music industry...

Novelty and Change

Why do people prefer new things to the old ones? People often prefer new things to the old for several reasons: 1. Innovation and Improvement : New things are typically associated with progress, offering improvements in technology, design, and functionality. For example, new smartphones or cars often come with better features, enhanced performance, and more efficiency compared to older models, which makes them more attractive. 2. Cultural Influence : Society often promotes novelty and change. Advertising, media, and peer pressure encourage the idea that having the latest products or trends is a sign of status, success, and modernity. People want to fit in with current trends, which leads to a preference for new things. 3. Psychological Factors : Humans have a natural curiosity and desire for novelty. This desire to experience new things can be linked to dopamine release, which is associated with pleasure and reward. The thrill of owning something new can create a sense of excitement an...

Dying by instalment

Dying by Instalment: The story of the African Economy The African economy, once brimming with untapped potential, now finds itself gasping for breath, a victim of systemic issues that have left it faltering. The continent, blessed with vast natural resources, a youthful population, and a rich cultural heritage, seems destined for greatness. Yet, its story is one of slow suffocation—dying by instalment. The First Instalment: The Colonial Legacy Africa’s economic struggles began with the colonial era. The invaders carved up the continent, extracting resources for their own benefit while stunting local industries. Railways, mines, and plantations were designed to serve European markets, not African development. By the time independence arrived, the foundations of self-sustaining economies had been neglected, leaving nations ill-equipped to stand on their own. The Second Instalment: Post-Independence Missteps The euphoria of independence quickly gave way to disillusionment. Many African na...