Our cognitive abilities enable us to envision potential scenarios for the future based on past empirical experiences and our innate creative skills. The intellectual process of refining and synthesizing (distilling) imagined future scenarios into a single cohesive plan ready to be communicated through language or via image and chart based graphic methods is called planning. The subject of interest for this planning process is not confined only to the arts and sciences like architecture and urbanism, but is essential across a multitude of human endeavors. Whether this is about orchestrating a wedding, charting a career trajectory, preparing a presentation at work, outlining a military campaign, composing a musical piece on the piano, or developing an urban plan, the mental act of planning is a critical component of the human intellect.

To transition our Being₁ from the remnants of chaos to a state of order and security, which is a condition that is prerequisite for future fulfillment and satisfaction, it is imperative that we cultivate a habitual approach to planning. Our minds must be conditioned to engage in daily strategic planning, with the flexibility to revise these plans in response to evolving circumstances. Rigidity in planning can be counterproductive; instead, adaptability is key. Without an active plan in hand, we risk remaining ensnared in the unpredictability of disorder and uncertainty, drifting from the dark and chaotic corners of the ocean of life, aimlessly.

The painting below, executed by Diego Velázquez₂, was created during a period marked by a revival of interest in classical philosophy—a resurgence at that time, which also seems to be particularly relevant given the tumultuous events of recent decades.* This painting exemplifies Velázquez’s meticulous planning skills, evident in every detail. One can discern the strategic decisions embedded in his use of color, the juxtaposition of materials, the deliberate placement of Democritus’ left hand above the globe, hinting feelings of confidence and ownership, and the subtlety of his smile, bordering lunacy. Democritus was known for his cheerful disposition and propensity for laughter, his face in the painting is rendered with a nuanced portrayal that reflects his complex personality.

Velázquez’s approach exemplifies a masterful orchestration of multiple smaller plans within the framework of a larger, overarching vision. Each element—color choice, material arrangement, and compositional detail—contributes to a cohesive thematic and visual narrative. Absent of such a comprehensive plan, Velázquez’s work might have devolved into mere artistic brushstrokes on canvas, showcasing skill and potential but lacking a focused, intentional message. Sounds Familiar?**

Since I began immersing myself in the works of acclaimed authors, I have observed significant voluntary changes in my internal thought processes. When I read multiple works by a single author whose style resonates deeply with me, I notice that my inner dialogue occasionally adopts the tone and perspective of that author. Including his point of view when needed. This shift is particularly noticeable when I reflect on my own intentions and actions, as I find myself evaluating decisions through the lens of personal benefit (advantageousness₁) and moral integrity (Duty₂). If a plan does not meet my internal moral standards, I promptly discard it and continue on hypothesizing different scenarios with better moral outcomes to reach a plan₃ decision that is close to perfect.

Moreover, As I assess my decisions, I often invoke the insights of the authors I have recently read. I ponder questions such as, “What would they have done in my situation?” For instance, I might contemplate how Emperor Marcus Aurelius would respond if faced with a selfish neighbor who obstructed his parking space. By imaginatively integrating the voices and perspectives of these authors into my decision-making process, I strive to make more thoughtful and principled choices in my life. Hence, this may be considered as an additional rationale for which I consistently advise my junior colleagues to curtail mindless television and social media consumption and, instead, immerse themselves in reading books at the earliest opportunity they get.

The mind, I’ve come to realize, is not governed by a singular voice. Instead, it is shaped by multiple perspectives, especially as we engage with more intellectually stimulating works. The ideas of strong-minded authors enhance our inner discussions, adding layers of critical thought and alternative opinions, which we can distill and sort out until arriving to the most favorable hypotheses. Consequently, our actions are persistently evaluated by these internal voices, underscoring the necessity of ensuring that justice and morality guide our endeavors.₄ As a secondary effect, these newly internalized voices often assume the role of judges, scrutinizing our actions and, if they disapprove, withdrawing from us and shaming us, which can lead to feelings of guilt, affecting our neurological well-being. Therefore, it is crucial to be discerning about which authors and stories we choose to read. We must avoid incorporating toxic or weak perspectives into our internal dialogue by selecting authors whose works align with our values and contribute positively to our inner discourse.

This book was gifted to me by a good friend of mine in Adana, Turkey, who is a devout follower of Sadhguru’s teachings.

Sadghuru divides his book into 3 parts, 1) On what is Karma 2) How to be aware of Karma and be on the drivers seat, 3) Queations about karma.

Below are some noteworthy excerpts from the book with my corresponding notes underneeth each quotation.

The series of plan images shown above illustrate the city of Detroit through the 20th century.
Many unprecedented and unsolvable problems regarding urbanism was born with the main stream adaptation of the automobile through out the 20th century.