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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Wisdom of Insecurity summary
A Message for an Age of Anxiety
11 mins
Brief summary
The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts explores the paradox of trying to find security in an uncertain world. It challenges readers to embrace the present moment instead of constantly seeking for a better future, offering a new perspective on the nature of existence.
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The Wisdom of Insecurity
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As the power of religion and social norms diminishes, life becomes more uncertain.
Do you ever feel anxious or insecure because of a lack of fulfillment in life? You’re not alone: this feeling is more common now than ever before.
Not long ago, the average person’s life was guided, or at least influenced, by the strict doctrines of religion. It might sound counterintuitive, but these strongly held beliefs about morality and the afterlife actually helped people feel more fulfilled.
The promise of an afterlife is especially grounding and reassuring.
Humans can put up with many of life’s harsh realities as long as there is something to look forward to. The devoutly religious can remain positive through the worst hardships because an infinitely blissful afterlife awaits them. But the waning influence of organized religion has shifted people’s outlook on life.
The twentieth century saw societies around the world moving away from many religious concepts. The myth was losing its strength. Suddenly, with the afterlife in question, people were struggling to make sense of the pain and suffering of life. Where is the reward that makes it all worthwhile?
So people began to fill this gap with the cheap thrills of modern society.
Deprived of the meaningful narrative provided by religion, many people felt an inner emptiness. And so, in an attempt to fill this void, more people turned to stimulants, like drugs, partying or overwork. These methods can provide distraction from the bigger existential questions kicking around in the back of your mind.
But what this constant stimulation is really doing is desensitizing you.
It can also lead to addictive behavior. Using alcohol to fill the void can quickly take you from beer to hard liquor as your tolerance levels rise. And this desire to increase intake mirrors what is happening in today’s society. We are chasing down more and more stimulation to make up for a lack of meaning in our lives.
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What is The Wisdom of Insecurity about?
In The Wisdom of Insecurity (1951), author Alan Watts discusses the paradoxical nature of modern life: we pursue goals and covet material goods that promise happiness, but which leave us feeling empty and more anxious than ever. As we indulge in unproductive thoughts about the future or the past, we tend to forget about what is most meaningful – the present moment.
The Wisdom of Insecurity Review
The Wisdom of Insecurity (1951) by Alan Watts is a thought-provoking exploration of the human quest for security in an unpredictable world. Here's why this book is well worth reading:
- It offers a fresh perspective on the nature of insecurity and the futile pursuit of certainty, challenging conventional wisdom and prompting self-reflection.
- With its philosophical insights and spiritual wisdom, the book invites readers to embrace the present moment and find meaning in the midst of uncertainty.
- The author's profound ideas and engaging writing style make for a captivating read, ensuring that this book is anything but boring.
Who should read The Wisdom of Insecurity?
- Anyone feeling unfulfilled in life
- Anxiety sufferers searching for the secrets to happiness
- People interested in contemporary philosophy
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The Wisdom of Insecurity FAQs
What is the main message of The Wisdom of Insecurity?
The main message of The Wisdom of Insecurity is finding peace and fulfillment by embracing the present moment and letting go of the need for control.
How long does it take to read The Wisdom of Insecurity?
The reading time for The Wisdom of Insecurity varies, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Wisdom of Insecurity a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Wisdom of Insecurity is a thought-provoking read that offers valuable insights into finding peace amidst the uncertainties of life.
Who is the author of The Wisdom of Insecurity?
The author of The Wisdom of Insecurity is Alan Watts.
What to read after The Wisdom of Insecurity?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Wisdom of Insecurity, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Way of Zen by Alan W. Watts
- The Book by Alan W. Watts
- Do Pause by Robert Poynton
- Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
- 12 Rules For Life by Jordan B. Peterson
- Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki
- On Having No Head by Douglas Harding
- Purpose by Samuel T. Wilkinson
- Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
- The Republic by Plato