I struggle in life because I’m smart

(And humble…)

I know I’m smart. It’s part of being smart. I am not sure what exact kind of “smart”. There are different kinds for sure, not a single archetype.

On being smart

I’m smart on paper. I went to Cambridge and Harvard Business School!

I love Radiohead and Dostoevsky!

More importantly, I feel deeply aware of myself, the world, and its 8 billion fellow human beings. I accept them all, with their differences, complexities, and controversies, their inner worlds that are very different from mine, not better or worse, but very different. I guess I shouldn’t be shy to describe myself as empathetic. I am profoundly aware of how I must co-exist — in harmony — with everyone, no matter their origin, upbringing, life journey, views, and values.

I resist painting things in black and white or having strong unbendable convictions — that makes me smart too. I dislike cliches. In fact, I don’t have an opinion on many things, and where I do I reserve the right to change my opinion. I have no shame admitting being wrong, saying I’m sorry, or changing my point of view.

Why being smart is difficult

• I am always skeptical and suspicious of any authority. I am a law-obedient citizen but that’s as far it goes. I will question every possible attempt to control me — be it by the politicians or my boss. In fact, I don’t get upset if my kids question my authority. If they are not afraid to…