Opus 2023-160: Hone Your Mind

Have you ever been bored because you are around someone who keeps repeating the same story?  Have you ever realized that you are one of those people?

Guilty.

Everyone does it at times.  As we get older it becomes more frequent.  One reason is that our memory isn’t what it once was.  Another reason is they are good stories.  A third is that often our lives get so routine that we have nothing new to talk about.

I want to suggest a couple of solutions to the situation.

First, work at growing.  This would involve reading and listening to things that are new to you.  The library is full of books just crying out to be read.  I will admit that most of them are a waste of time but with a little care you can find volumes that inform, inspire and stimulate.  Keep in mind that you don’t have to finish a book just because you started.  When the author goes off the reservation, return the book to the library.  As you read or listen be on the alert for authors and books that others are reading.  When I listen to Socrates in the City, Uncommon Knowledge or any of a number of informative interview programs I pay attention to the books being shilled.  Sometimes they are worth reading.  Another avenue to explore is the classics that you either didn’t read and should have, or that you read and don’t remember much about.  How long has it been since you read Screwtape’s Letters?

Second, make it a habit to not repeat anything more than a week old.  This will force you to either be quiet or start reading.  Actually, it is a good idea to practice listening.  Others have stories to tell.  If you can’t keep quiet then current experiences will at least make it more likely you are worth listening to.

If you have made a new friend or joined a new group you have a few days to go hog wild and share anything that comes to mind.  The new contacts have not heard your fantasies but begin to look for those eyes that are clouding over.  It is an indication that you need to shift back into the other mode.

This is a two edged sword.  Not only will it help keep your mind sharp but it will save a lot of other people from falling asleep on you.

homo unius libri