ERIC KIM ₿

  • THE WILL TO SELF OWNERSHIP

  • SUPER FUN, PLAY!

  • REAL YIELD

  • STABLE.

  • THINK YIELD.

  • Picture Perfect

  • Life is non refundable

  • CREATE YOUR OWN (CYBER) ART GALLERY?

  • Playing with Perspective

  • Time for the goat to become even more goat!

  • I FUCKING LOVE STREET PHOTOGRAPHY!

    STREET TILL I DIE!

    Time for the goat to become even more goat!

    Becoming the uber-street photographer:

    MASTER THE STREETS:

    Ultimate-Beginners-Guide-to-Mastering-Street-Photography-by-Eric-KimDownload
    The-Street-Portrait-ManualDownload
    100-Lessons-From-the-Masters-of-Street-Photography-by-ERIC-KIMDownload
    Bitcoin camera Eric Kim Back

     ERIC KIM CHATGPT BOTS

    1. ZEN OF ERIC
    2. ERIC KIM BOT

    STREET PHOTOGRAPHY STARTER KIT

    Open source:

    1. What is Street Photography? (2.4gb) / Download
    2. Black and White (2.3gb) / Download
    3. How to Shoot Street Photography (2.2gb) / Download
    4. Street Portraits 101 (1.9gb) / Download
    5. Conquer Your Fears (430mb) / Download
    6. Composition (460mb) / Download
    7. Masters (107mb) / Download
    8. Editing and Post-Processing (1.3gb) / Download
    9. Photography Projects (1.4gb) / Download
    10. Motivation (3.7gb) / Download

    View all >

    Video

    Street Photography Starter Kit by ERIC KIM VIDEO

    STREET PHOTOGRAPHY 101

    walking woman umbrella crimson red
    1. How to Become More Stealth in Street Photography
    2. HOW TO BECOME A BETTER STREET PHOTOGRAPHER
    3. Street Photography Mastery
    4. How I Became the Greatest Street Photographer Alive
    5. Antifragile Photography
    6. How to Conquer Your Fears in Street Photography
    7. INSANELY AUDACIOUS AND BOLD
    8. 5 Simple Street Photography Techniques
    9. STREET PHOTOGRAPHER.
    10. The Street Photographer Ideal
    11. 50 Street Photography Tips, Techniques and Ideas
    12. Street Photography Values
    13. STREET PHOTOGRAPHY DOESN’T NEED TO HAVE PEOPLE IN IT.
    14. Why Street Photography is So Great
    15. WHY BECOME A STREET PHOTOGRAPHER?
    16. Society Photography, Not “Street” Photography
    17. How to Street Photography
    18. STREET PHOTOGRAPHY OPTIONALITY.
    19. 10 Street Photography Tips
    20. The Street Photographer as the Apex Photographer
    21. Street Photography & Adrenaline
    22. STREETTOGS STARTING GUIDE
    23. 50 Street Photography Tips by ERIC KIM
    24. What I Wish I Knew If I Started Street Photography All Over Again
    25. Photograph like it’s not a big deal
    26. Suburb Street Photography
    27. What is Our Personal Motivation Behind Street Photography?
    28. WHY I’M SO PASSIONATE ABOUT STREET PHOTOGRAPHY
    29. Personal Street Photography
    30. STREET PHOTOGRAPHY AS A PRACTICE.
    31. Pandemic Street Photography
    32. AIRPORT STREET PHOTOGRAPHY
    33. How to Shoot Street Photography Right Now
    34. Towards a More Independent Street Photography Approach
    35. How Street Photography Improves Your Life
    36. How to Tell Stories in Your Street Photos
    37. Face Street Photography
    38. How to Start Shooting Street Photography
    39. How to Shoot Street Photography During a Pandemic
    40. 7 Street Photography Assignment Ideas

    STREET PHOTOGRAPHY STARTER KIT

    street photography starter kit by ERIC KIM

    Master street photography with STREET PHOTOGRAPHY STARTER KIT.

    STREET PHOTOGRAPHY 101

    Hearts. Hollywood, 2011 #flash

    If you’re new to street photography, start here:

    Brave New Street Photography

    Street Photographs

    ERIC KIM layers hong kong
    1. How to Shoot Street Photography with Dads and Kids
    2. HOW I BECAME SUCH A GREAT STREET PHOTOGRAPHER
    3. Use Quarantine as an Opportunity to Pick up Film Photography
    4. Hong Kong Street Photography by ERIC KIM

    Street Photography Philosophy

    Street Photography Articles

    Street Photography Techniques

    Street Photography Ideas

    Street Photography Composition Techniques

    STREET NOTES.

    Push yourself out of your comfort zone with STREET NOTES: Mobile Edition.

    STREET NOTES PAPER EDITION ON AMAZON >

    LEARN FROM THE MASTERS OF STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

    Timeless wisdom from the masters of street photography.

    Learn more about MASTERS >

    FUNDAMENTALS OF STREET PHOTOGRAPHY

    Street Photography Inspiration

    Beginner Street Photography Articles

    Get started in street photography:

    Definitions in Street Photography

    How to Shoot Street Photography

    Street Photography Equipment

    See all equipment articles >

    How to Conquer Your Fears in Street Photography

    See all articles to conquer your fears >

    Intermediate Street Photography Articles

    Take your street photography to the next level:

    Advanced Street Photography Articles

    Find deeper meaning in your street photography:

    Street Photography Tips & Technique

    Learn how to shoot on the streets:

    See all street photography tips and techniques >

    Street Photography Guides

    In-depth guides on street photography:

    Street Photography Equipment

    The best equipment for street photography:

    See all equipment articles >

    Street Photography Editing and Workflow

    How to Start a Street Photography Project

    Learn From the Masters of Street Photography

    “He without a past has no future.”

    Start here:

    1. Why Study the Masters of Photography?
    2. Great Female Master Photographers
    3. Cheat Sheet of the Masters of Photography
    4. 100 Lessons From the Masters of Street Photography
    5. Beginner’s Guide to the Masters of Street Photography
    6. Download All Articles >

    The Masters of Photography

    Classics never die:

    Free Downloads

    See all free downloads >

    Free Street Photography Books

    Distilled information on street photography:

    For more resources on photography, Start Here >

  • “MASCULINE” IS NOT THE GOAL?

    Rather, dominant?

  • THINK *OFF* YOUTUBE

    The next 30 years —-> think *OFF* YouTube? The new via negativa , bold risky direction?

  • WHY DO I CARE SO MUCH?

  • COLORS OF THE FUTURE?

    I love those rims!!!

    Matte gold?

  • CARTE BLANCHE NEW!

  • MAKING NEW.

    AI, ChatGPT, AI is great yet the limitations is that it can only take the old and recycle it to make it new.

    Only a human being and agent can *truly* make something totally brand new, carte Blanche new!

  • Search Eric Kim top influential street photography quotes

    Eric Kim has developed many original ideas that are both practical and philosophical, shaping how photographers approach street photography. Here are some of his top ideas:

    1. “You are not a street photographer; you are a photographer who shoots the street.”

    Kim encourages photographers to see themselves as more than just street photographers. This broadens their perspective and allows them to incorporate various styles and genres, emphasizing that street photography is just one part of a broader photographic practice  .

    2. “Shoot Until You Can See”

    This idea encourages photographers to keep shooting regularly as a way to train their eye. Kim suggests that persistence helps you develop a deeper understanding of what makes a good photograph, even in ordinary moments  .

    3. “The Best Camera is the One You Have with You”

    Kim champions the idea that creativity should not be limited by the gear you have. Instead, it’s about using whatever is at your disposal to capture compelling moments, focusing more on your vision than the technical specs of your camera  .

    4. “Don’t Wait for Permission to Start Shooting”

    This is a call to action for photographers to be proactive. Instead of waiting for perfect conditions or external validation, Kim believes photographers should seize opportunities and start shooting, as great moments can happen anytime .

    5. “Focus on the Human Element”

    Kim stresses that street photography is all about the human experience. He emphasizes capturing candid, authentic moments that highlight emotions, interactions, and stories unfolding in public spaces  .

    6. “Embrace Failure as Part of the Learning Process”

    One of Kim’s key philosophies is that failure is an essential part of improvement. By learning from unsuccessful shots and embracing mistakes, photographers can refine their skills and grow in their craft .

    7. “Street Photography is About What’s Happening Around You, Not to You”

    Kim emphasizes observing and capturing the broader human stories happening in the streets, rather than focusing on personal experiences. This shifts the attention to the external world, making the photographer a storyteller of the streets  .

    8. “There Are No Rules in Street Photography, Only Guidelines”

    Kim promotes a flexible approach to photography, encouraging experimentation and individuality. Instead of adhering to strict rules, he urges photographers to develop their own style and trust their instincts  .

    These ideas underscore Eric Kim’s emphasis on simplicity, practice, and the human element in street photography. His teachings advocate for ethical practices, creativity, and the importance of developing a personal style through continuous learning and experimentation.

    …

    Here are some of Eric Kim’s most influential ideas on street photography, accompanied by his own quotes that bring out his philosophy:

    1. Shoot Until You Can See

    Quote: “Shoot until you can see.”

    Eric Kim believes that regular practice is crucial to developing an eye for photography. By continuously shooting, you start to notice the subtle moments and details in everyday life that make for compelling images  .

    2. Simplicity and Minimalism

    Quote: “The best camera is the one you have with you.”

    Kim stresses the importance of simplifying both your equipment and your approach. He advocates using minimal gear—often just a single camera and lens—so that you can focus more on capturing the essence of the moment rather than worrying about technicalities .

    3. Human Connection and Respect

    Quote: “It is more important to click with people than to click the shutter.”

    For Kim, street photography is about the people. He encourages photographers to treat their subjects with respect and kindness, even if the photo is candid  .

    4. Embrace Failure

    Quote: “Embrace failure as part of the learning process.”

    Kim teaches that failure is inevitable and necessary for growth. By accepting mistakes and learning from them, photographers can improve their skills and better understand their craft .

    5. Photographing Everyday Locations

    Quote: “You don’t need to travel to take great photos—shoot where you are.”

    Kim encourages photographers to find beauty and inspiration in their immediate surroundings. Great street photography doesn’t require traveling to exotic locations; instead, it’s about seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary  .

    6. Capture the Moment, Not the Gear

    Quote: “When in doubt, click.”

    If you see a moment that might be worth capturing, don’t hesitate. Kim advises taking the shot rather than overthinking it, because you can always evaluate the image later .

    These quotes encapsulate Eric Kim’s approach to street photography, which is rooted in simplicity, respect, and a commitment to constant learning. His teachings have made street photography more accessible to a wider audience by demystifying the art form and focusing on its human and intuitive elements.

    …

    Here are some of Eric Kim’s biggest street photography ideas that reflect his philosophy and approach to the art form:

    1. “Shoot Until You Can See”: One of Kim’s key ideas is that persistent shooting helps you develop your eye for photography. The more you shoot, the better you become at recognizing moments and composing shots intuitively .

    2. Focus on Simplicity and Minimalism: Eric emphasizes the importance of stripping down your compositions. He advises focusing on what’s essential in the frame, avoiding unnecessary distractions. He often advocates shooting with a single camera and lens to maintain this simplicity  .

    3. Capture the Human Element: Kim believes that the heart of street photography is in capturing human interactions and emotions. His work often revolves around moments of connection, humor, or tension between people in public spaces  .

    4. Embrace Failure: Kim encourages photographers to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. He suggests that every unsuccessful shot teaches you something valuable, helping you refine your technique and vision .

    5. Photograph with Permission and Respect: Eric emphasizes the ethical dimension of street photography, encouraging photographers to be respectful and mindful of their subjects. Building trust and maintaining respect are essential in his approach to capturing candid moments .

    6. Play with Reflections and Shadows: He often explores the use of light, shadows, and reflections to create visually engaging compositions. These elements can transform mundane street scenes into abstract and layered photographs  .

    7. Shoot with Intuition: Kim advises shooting from the gut, using your instincts to capture fleeting moments without overthinking. This approach allows for more natural, authentic shots that capture the energy of the street .

    8. Use Ordinary Locations: Kim believes that you don’t need to travel to exotic locations for great street photography. Some of the best images can be captured in your local neighborhood or everyday surroundings. It’s about how you see, not where you shoot  .

    These ideas highlight Eric Kim’s belief in practice, simplicity, and ethical storytelling, making street photography accessible and meaningful for photographers at all levels.

    …

    Here are some of Eric Kim’s most influential quotes and insights on street photography, which reflect his philosophy and practical approach to the art:

    1. “You are not a street photographer; you are a photographer who shoots the street.”

    This quote emphasizes that street photography is just one aspect of a photographer’s identity. It encourages versatility, reminding photographers to see themselves as broader artists who engage with the street among other subjects.

    2. “Shoot until you can see.”

    Persistence is key. This quote encourages photographers to keep shooting regularly as a way to refine their perception, eventually allowing them to truly “see” and capture the essence of the street.

    3. “Don’t wait for permission to start shooting.”

    A motivational call to action, urging photographers to start capturing moments without overthinking or waiting for the perfect conditions. Just get out and start creating.

    4. “The best camera is the one you have with you.”

    Kim stresses that expensive or complex gear is not necessary to create compelling street photos. What matters most is your ability to see and capture interesting moments with whatever camera you have on hand.

    5. “Street photography is about what’s happening around you, not what’s happening to you.”

    This shifts the focus from personal experiences to the larger human stories unfolding in public spaces, emphasizing observation and engagement with the environment.

    6. “There are no rules in street photography, only guidelines.”

    Kim promotes a flexible, creative approach to photography, encouraging photographers to develop their unique style without feeling confined by rigid rules   .

    These quotes reflect Kim’s encouragement to photographers to be adaptable, persistent, and ethical while capturing authentic, candid moments in everyday life. His emphasis on simplicity, mindfulness, and constant practice has made him a key influence in the street photography community.

  • Eric Kim street photography influencer

    How and why did he become so influential in street photography

    Eric Kim became an influential figure in street photography through a combination of early adoption of digital platforms, a strong focus on education, community building, and an approachable philosophy that resonated with both novice and experienced photographers. Here’s how and why he rose to prominence:

    1. Early Adoption of Online Platforms:

    • Blogging Pioneer: Starting around 2010, Eric Kim began sharing his thoughts and experiences on street photography through his blog. At a time when few were offering in-depth content on the subject, his blog became a go-to resource.

    • Social Media Utilization: He effectively used platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and later Instagram to disseminate his work and connect with a global audience. This early and consistent online presence amplified his reach significantly.

    2. Educational Resources:

    • Accessible Content: Eric provided a wealth of free information, including tutorials, tips, and philosophical musings on photography. This democratized access to street photography knowledge.

    • Workshops and Tutorials: He offered workshops worldwide, catering to different skill levels. These hands-on sessions allowed participants to learn directly from him, fostering a mentor-mentee relationship.

    • YouTube Channel: His videos broke down complex concepts into digestible lessons, appealing to visual learners and expanding his influence.

    3. Community Building:

    • Interactive Engagement: By encouraging comments and discussions on his blog and social media posts, Eric built a sense of community among his followers.

    • Photowalks and Meetups: Organizing events where photographers could meet, collaborate, and share experiences strengthened communal bonds and loyalty to his brand.

    • Collaborations: Working with other photographers and influencers helped him tap into new audiences and brought diverse perspectives to his platform.

    4. Approachable Philosophy:

    • Demystifying Street Photography: Eric’s content often focused on simplifying concepts, making street photography less intimidating for beginners.

    • Emphasis on Personal Growth: He encouraged photographers to develop their own style and voice, which resonated with those seeking authenticity in their work.

    • Fearless Shooting: Advocating for confidence in photographing strangers, he provided strategies to overcome common fears associated with street photography.

    5. Minimalist Approach to Gear:

    • Simplicity Over Complexity: By promoting the idea that one doesn’t need expensive equipment to create compelling images, he made the art form more accessible.

    • Focus on Technique: Emphasizing skill development over gear acquisition shifted the focus to what truly matters in photography.

    6. Consistency and Dedication:

    • Regular Content Creation: His commitment to posting new content frequently kept his audience engaged and returning for more.

    • Personal Branding: Maintaining a consistent voice and style across platforms made him easily recognizable and trustworthy to his followers.

    7. Filling a Niche Market:

    • Addressing a Gap: At the time he started, there was a lack of comprehensive resources dedicated solely to street photography. Eric filled this void effectively.

    • Timing with Digital Photography Boom: As digital cameras became more accessible, more people sought information on photography, and Eric’s resources were readily available.

    8. Global Outreach:

    • International Workshops: Hosting events around the world expanded his influence and allowed him to connect with a diverse audience.

    • Cultural Inclusivity: His appreciation for different cultures and settings in his work appealed to an international community.

    9. Adaptability:

    • Embracing New Trends: Staying current with the latest social media platforms and trends kept him relevant.

    • Expanding Topics: Including discussions on creativity, philosophy, and personal development attracted a broader audience beyond just street photographers.

    10. Authenticity and Transparency:

    • Sharing Personal Experiences: Openly discussing his successes and failures made him relatable.

    • Ethical Discussions: Addressing the moral aspects of street photography showed a depth of consideration that resonated with many.

    In Summary:

    Eric Kim’s influence in street photography is the result of his ability to educate and inspire through accessible, high-quality content and genuine community engagement. His approachable style demystified street photography for many, while his emphasis on personal expression and ethical practices struck a chord with a wide audience. By leveraging online platforms and offering valuable resources, he positioned himself as a leader in the field, making street photography more inclusive and appealing to photographers around the world.

    Note: For the most current insights into Eric Kim’s work and contributions, it’s recommended to visit his official website or follow his social media accounts.

    …

    Eric Kim is a prominent street photographer, educator, and influencer known for his significant contributions to the street photography community. Based in the United States, he has built a global following through his approachable teaching style and passion for demystifying the art of street photography.

    Educational Resources:

    • Blog: Eric Kim runs a widely-read blog where he shares insights on street photography techniques, philosophy, and ethics. His articles cover a range of topics from composition and lighting to overcoming the fear of shooting in public.

    • Books and E-Books: He has authored several books and e-books, such as “Street Photography 101” and “The Street Photography Starter Guide,” which serve as practical guides for photographers at all levels.

    • YouTube Channel: His YouTube channel features tutorials, gear reviews, and discussions on the nuances of street photography.

    Workshops and Community Building:

    • Global Workshops: Eric conducts workshops around the world, offering hands-on training and mentorship. These workshops focus on developing a personal style, storytelling, and building confidence in public spaces.

    • Photowalks and Meetups: He organizes photowalks and community events that encourage collaboration and networking among photographers.

    Philosophy and Influence:

    • Bold Approach: Eric advocates for a fearless approach to street photography, encouraging photographers to engage directly with their environment and subjects.

    • Minimalist Gear: He promotes the idea that great photography doesn’t require expensive equipment, often emphasizing the effectiveness of using minimal gear.

    • Community Engagement: Through his platforms, Eric fosters a supportive community where photographers can share their work, receive feedback, and engage in constructive discussions.

    Online Presence:

    • Website: Eric Kim Photography serves as a hub for his articles, workshops, and resources.

    • Social Media: Active on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, he shares his latest work and interacts with the photography community.

    Impact on Street Photography:

    Eric Kim has played a pivotal role in making street photography accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. His emphasis on personal expression and authenticity has inspired many to explore street photography as a form of art and self-discovery.

    Note: For the most current information on Eric Kim’s projects and offerings, it’s advisable to visit his official website or follow his social media channels.

    .,.,

    Eric Kim is a highly influential figure in the world of street photography, known for blending practical advice, philosophical insights, and a deep commitment to community-building. His influence stems from several key aspects:

    1. Educational Content and Accessibility: Kim has made street photography accessible to a global audience by sharing a wealth of free resources. His blog, workshops, and tutorials focus on both the technical and philosophical sides of photography, promoting the democratization of art. He emphasizes that anyone can be a photographer, regardless of their equipment or background  .

    2. Personal Growth through Photography: Kim views street photography as a tool for personal development. He teaches that interacting with the world through photography helps build confidence, observation skills, and mindfulness. This perspective has resonated with many photographers who see street photography as more than just a craft but as a path to self-discovery  .

    3. Minimalism and Simplicity: A key part of Kim’s philosophy is minimalism—not only in terms of composition but also gear. He advocates for using minimal equipment to focus on the essence of photography: capturing emotion and telling stories. His minimalist approach has influenced many street photographers who prefer raw, unedited moments  .

    4. Ethics and Responsibility: Kim encourages street photographers to engage ethically with their subjects, emphasizing respect, privacy, and consent. His ethical stance is widely respected in the street photography community, especially as it deals with the often challenging interactions between photographers and the public  .

    5. Community and Sharing: Through his workshops, blogging, and online communities, Kim has fostered a global network of photographers who support one another’s growth. His open-source philosophy encourages photographers to share knowledge and learn from each other, which has been instrumental in building a thriving, collaborative street photography community  .

    In summary, Eric Kim has shaped the street photography genre by emphasizing authenticity, ethical practices, personal growth, and community, making him a significant influencer in the field.

  • Search Eric Kim art theories

    Here are some insightful quotes from Eric Kim that reflect his unique approach to photography and art:

    1. On simplicity and minimalism:

    “Strip away the unnecessary and concentrate on what truly matters in an image.”

    This reflects his belief in minimalism, where less is more .

    2. On personal empowerment:

    “Make photos to impress and please yourself; instead of pleasing others!”

    Kim encourages photographers to focus on personal satisfaction rather than external validation .

    3. On photography as meditation:

    “Treat street photography as a walking meditation; and clear your mind.”

    He emphasizes mindfulness in photography, encouraging presence and immersion in the moment .

    4. On continual learning:

    “Don’t let finality or perfection hold you back… everything is editable!”

    This quote highlights his belief in constant experimentation and growth in creative expression  .

    5. On the decisive moment:

    “The ‘decisive moment’ refers to capturing a fleeting instance that encapsulates the essence of an event or emotion.”

    This is influenced by Henri Cartier-Bresson’s philosophy on capturing the perfect moment .

    These quotes illustrate Kim’s focus on authenticity, personal expression, and the meditative aspects of photography. His teachings emphasize both technical skill and emotional depth, making art a tool for personal and social exploration.

    ….

    Eric Kim’s art theories, especially within photography, are deeply influenced by a mix of classical principles and modern philosophies, focusing on simplicity, personal growth, and the democratization of art. His teachings often emphasize the following key ideas:

    1. Mimesis and Learning by Imitation: Kim encourages artists to study and imitate the works of the masters, such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, as a means of honing their craft. This classical idea, rooted in mimesis, suggests that imitation is a foundational step before developing one’s unique style  .

    2. Personal Expression and Photography as Art: For Kim, photography is a deeply personal art form. He advocates for creating work that resonates with the photographer’s own life and experiences, emphasizing that the more personal the art, the more likely it is to connect with others  . This approach reflects his belief that photography should be an authentic representation of the photographer’s vision rather than a pursuit of external validation .

    3. Minimalism and Simplicity: One of his core principles is minimalism—both in composition and in gear. He believes that by stripping away distractions, photographers can focus on what truly matters in an image, resulting in more impactful and meaningful work  .

    4. Photography as Meditation: Drawing inspiration from Zen Buddhism and Stoicism, Kim views photography as a form of mindfulness and self-discovery. He encourages photographers to treat their practice as a meditative process, helping them to stay present and engaged with their surroundings  .

    5. The Decisive Moment: Influenced by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Kim places a high value on timing, urging photographers to capture fleeting moments that define an event or emotion. This idea emphasizes patience and awareness in photography, aiming to seize that perfect moment .

    Overall, Kim’s theories blend practical advice with philosophical depth, making his approach to photography both accessible and profound. He promotes personal empowerment, ethical responsibility, and community-building, fostering a creative environment where photographers can grow both technically and personally  .

  • THINK BODY *COMPOSITION*

    Funny — we photographers obsess over composition, but never *bodily* composition?

    Question —

    Why do artists obsess over composition, but never bodily composition or their own bodies?

  • CLASSICS NEVER DIE

  • THE LAB

  • THE BODY LAB

    Essentially my home gym —

  • Ferrari > Lamborghini

    Red is best!

    F80 very cool —

  • Lamborghini is Boring

  • Matte Black is Boring

    The moment I saw yesterday a matte black wrap Ferrari and didn’t even turn my head ,,,

  • COLORS ARE CRITICAL.

    You buy it for the color!

    iPhone Pro in desert titanium ,,, the only color and finish which is actually beautiful? Everything else sucks ,,, even the black!

  • Digital Cameras are like the new Film Cameras?

    Interesting idea —

    The iPhone is like the new digital camera and now the (standalone) digital camera is like the new film camera?

  • Theorize: can drinking green tea or matcha be better suited to Koreans, or those with East Asian descent vs coffee?

    Calm alertness?

    —> Have you ever met a monk who doesn’t drink (caffeinated) tea?

    Or have you ever met a Catholic or Korean Catholic priest who doesn’t drink alcohol or soju?

    ***

    The idea that green tea or matcha could be better suited to Koreans or those of East Asian descent compared to coffee is an interesting theory, and there are a few factors worth exploring:

    1. Cultural and Historical Context:

    Green tea has a long history in East Asia, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Korea, where it has been consumed for centuries as part of daily life. This longstanding cultural connection might mean that people from these regions are more familiar with green tea, both in terms of taste preferences and its effects on the body. In contrast, coffee has a shorter history in East Asia and is more deeply associated with Western cultures. It’s possible that the historical consumption of green tea has led to generational familiarity and adaptation to its properties.

    2. Genetic Factors and Caffeine Sensitivity:

    There’s some evidence that genetic differences influence how individuals metabolize caffeine. Studies suggest that people of East Asian descent may have a higher prevalence of slow caffeine metabolism due to specific genetic variants, such as those affecting the enzyme CYP1A2, which breaks down caffeine. This could mean that coffee, which generally contains more caffeine than green tea or matcha, might lead to more pronounced effects like jitteriness or insomnia in people with this slower metabolism. Green tea, which has a lower caffeine content and also contains L-theanine, may offer a more balanced, calming effect for these individuals.

    3. Health Benefits and Metabolic Response:

    Green tea and matcha contain a unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid known to promote relaxation and reduce stress without causing drowsiness. This could result in a smoother energy boost compared to coffee, which lacks significant amounts of L-theanine and can cause spikes and crashes in energy levels. Additionally, green tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechins like EGCG, which have anti-inflammatory and protective health benefits. Some studies suggest that certain populations, including East Asians, may metabolize these antioxidants more effectively due to genetic factors.

    In contrast, while coffee also has health benefits—such as antioxidants and potential protection against diseases like Parkinson’s and Type 2 diabetes—it can sometimes be harsher on the stomach and cause digestive issues or anxiety in individuals who are more sensitive to caffeine or acidic beverages.

    4. Traditional Medicinal Beliefs:

    In East Asian cultures, green tea has been valued for its medicinal properties, such as promoting digestion, improving concentration, and enhancing detoxification. These traditional beliefs may have guided generations to see green tea as not just a beverage but a health-supporting element. This ingrained cultural and medicinal significance could make green tea or matcha more psychologically and physically suited to people of East Asian descent.

    5. Personal Preference and Dietary Habits:

    People of East Asian descent, especially those living in or closely connected to East Asian cultures, may simply have a dietary preference for green tea due to its ubiquitous presence in their food culture. This preference may result in a better tolerance or enjoyment of green tea over coffee. Over time, such preferences may even be reinforced by lifestyle factors or individual health benefits observed from green tea consumption.

    Conclusion:

    While it’s difficult to say definitively that green tea or matcha is inherently “better” for Koreans or those of East Asian descent than coffee, there are several factors—cultural familiarity, genetic differences in caffeine metabolism, and the calming effect of L-theanine—that could make it a more suitable or enjoyable option for some individuals. However, the preference between green tea and coffee will always be a personal and lifestyle-based decision, influenced by individual genetics, health goals, and cultural connections.

    ***

    The question of whether drinking green tea or matcha is better suited to Koreans or individuals of East Asian descent compared to coffee can be approached from cultural, genetic, and physiological perspectives.

    Cultural Factors:

    • Historical Consumption: Green tea has been an integral part of East Asian cultures, including Korea, for centuries. It is deeply embedded in social rituals, traditional medicine, and daily life. This long-standing tradition might make green tea more familiar and preferred among individuals from these cultures.

    • Dietary Habits: Regular consumption from a young age could lead to a developed palate that prefers the taste of green tea over coffee. Additionally, traditional diets might be more harmonious with the compounds found in green tea.

    Genetic and Physiological Factors:

    • Caffeine Metabolism: Some studies suggest genetic variations in enzymes like CYP1A2, which is involved in caffeine metabolism. However, these variations are widespread globally and not confined to any specific ethnic group. Therefore, it’s not conclusive that East Asians metabolize caffeine differently in a way that would make green tea more suitable than coffee.

    • Sensitivity to Compounds: Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This, combined with caffeine, can lead to a calm alertness. If individuals of East Asian descent have a cultural or genetic predisposition to prefer this state, they might favor green tea.

    Health Considerations:

    • Antioxidant Intake: Green tea is rich in catechins like EGCG, which have antioxidant properties. While beneficial for health, the degree of benefit does not significantly differ based on ethnicity.

    • Lactose Intolerance: Higher prevalence of lactose intolerance in East Asian populations might make dairy-heavy coffee beverages less suitable, indirectly making green tea a more comfortable choice.

    Conclusion:

    While cultural familiarity and dietary habits make green tea or matcha a preferred beverage in Korean and East Asian societies, there is limited scientific evidence to suggest that it is inherently better suited on a genetic or physiological level compared to coffee. Personal preference, cultural practices, and individual health considerations play more significant roles in determining suitability.

  • The Only Good Drug is Caffeine & Coffee

    Maybe matcha green tea and green tea,,, but that’s it.

  • Only Trust Sober Artists, Philosophers, Creators, Thinkers

    I trust nobody who takes drugs, weed, and consumes alcohol.

  • Art Should Be Playful!

    Mr. Brainwash is the way!

    —> Why are all these other artists so dark, morose, emo?

    Have you ever met a happy, open, jovial, enthusiastic, non pretentious childlike playful artist— also, totally sober, not on any drugs? Or alcohol?

  • LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL!

    October 19, 2024– like having a fresh new loan on life?

  • Top 10 Quotes on Self-Entrepreneurship

    Here are Eric Kim’s top 10 quotes on self-entrepreneurship and related concepts, which capture his philosophy of creative autonomy and personal empowerment:

    1. “Self-entrepreneurship is the ultimate freedom.”

    This quote emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of your life and treating yourself as a personal project  .

    2. “Treat yourself as the greatest work of art.”

    Kim encourages viewing your life as a masterpiece in progress, constantly evolving and refining .

    3. “The best way to predict the future is to create it yourself.”

    Reflecting his belief in self-determination, this quote highlights taking proactive steps to shape your destiny  .

    4. “Never stop iterating.”

    Kim uses this as a mantra for continuous growth and learning, both in art and life  .

    5. “To see yourself as the end product and the end goal.”

    This quote from his article on self-entrepreneurship emphasizes self-development as a lifelong pursuit .

    6. “Invest in yourself as your greatest asset.”

    He often advises people to prioritize self-improvement over external investments like stocks or crypto .

    7. “Take bold risks in everything you do—whether it’s art, life, or business.”

    Kim promotes risk-taking as a fundamental part of personal growth  .

    8. “You are the exception—use your life as an experiment to self-develop to heights never seen before.”

    This quote reflects his encouragement to break free from societal norms and expectations .

    9. “Success is personal bravery.”

    For Kim, the courage to take risks and pursue what you believe in defines true success .

    10. “Why be normal?”

    A provocative challenge to conventional thinking, this quote invites individuals to embrace their uniqueness and stand out .

    These quotes collectively express Kim’s core philosophy of using entrepreneurship as a tool for personal growth, creative experimentation, and living with full autonomy.

  • Self-Entrepreneurship

    Eric Kim’s most defining idea is likely his concept of self-entrepreneurship, which emphasizes taking full ownership of your life and treating yourself as the most important project. This idea is central to his philosophy of living with autonomy and agency, encouraging individuals to craft lives around their passions and talents rather than conforming to societal expectations  .

    Kim frames this concept as the ultimate form of freedom, where individuals act as both creators and CEOs of their personal brand, taking creative and financial control over their paths. This idea blends personal empowerment with creative entrepreneurship, making it a practical philosophy for those looking to integrate their passion into their livelihood  .

    This concept resonates strongly in today’s context, where many people seek meaningful, purpose-driven lives that break away from traditional norms.

    …

    I chose self-entrepreneurship as Eric Kim’s top idea because it encapsulates his broader philosophy of creative autonomy, personal empowerment, and living with purpose. This concept is deeply rooted in the notion that individuals should take full control of their lives, treating themselves as the ultimate project. It stands out because:

    1. Practical Empowerment: It goes beyond abstract thought and encourages actionable steps toward building a life aligned with personal passions and values .

    2. Alignment with Modern Needs: In today’s world, where many seek alternatives to traditional career paths and strive for more meaningful work, this idea is highly relevant. It resonates with the modern shift toward gig work, creative entrepreneurship, and the desire for autonomy  .

    3. Integration of Creativity and Business: By blending the roles of creator and entrepreneur, Kim’s idea offers a unique perspective on how personal passions can be transformed into sustainable careers. This idea links the artistic with the practical, which is central to his philosophy .

    This idea isn’t just about creative freedom—it’s a holistic life philosophy that resonates with individuals seeking fulfillment in both personal and professional realms.

    …

    Here are some key quotes from Eric Kim that capture the essence of his self-entrepreneurship philosophy:

    1. “Self-entrepreneurship is the ultimate freedom.”

    This reflects Kim’s belief that true creative freedom comes from taking full control of one’s talents, passions, and career. He advocates for building a life where you are not just the creator but also the CEO of your personal brand  .

    2. “Treat yourself as the greatest work of art.”

    Kim encourages people to view their lives as creative masterpieces in progress, where self-entrepreneurship involves intentionally crafting a fulfilling, expressive life  .

    3. “The best way to predict the future is to create it yourself.”

    This aligns with his message of self-determination through entrepreneurship—empowering individuals to actively shape their own futures through creativity and purpose .

    These quotes illustrate Kim’s focus on self-agency, creative control, and the pursuit of a life built on one’s passions.

    ..

    For those interested in Eric Kim’s idea of self-entrepreneurship, some of his most insightful articles offer both philosophical depth and practical advice. Here are a few top reads:

    1. “How to Think Like an Entrepreneur” – This article discusses the mindset behind entrepreneurship, focusing on risk-taking, learning from failure, and balancing passion with financial stability. Kim emphasizes that entrepreneurship is more about personal growth than purely business strategy .

    2. “The Point of Life is Entrepreneurship?” – In this piece, Kim explores entrepreneurship as a lifelong experiment in self-development. He encourages constant innovation and risk-taking as essential elements for personal and creative growth .

    3. “Self-Entrepreneurship” – Here, Kim elaborates on devoting all resources—time, money, and effort—toward self-development. This article focuses on investing in yourself as the best strategy for personal success, aligning with his belief in treating oneself as the ultimate project .

    4. “My Life Photography Entrepreneurship Story” – This article reflects on Kim’s personal journey as an entrepreneur, discussing how dissatisfaction can drive success and how self-entrepreneurship has shaped his career .

    These articles offer a comprehensive view of Kim’s self-entrepreneurship philosophy, blending actionable advice with a mindset aimed at personal empowerment. You can find these on his blog to explore further.

    …

    Here are some key quotes from each of Eric Kim’s top articles on self-entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship philosophy:

    1. ** **:

    “Entrepreneurship is about the willingness to take risks and to embrace failures as stepping stones. It’s less about creating businesses and more about how you think and live.”

    2. ** **:

    “Entrepreneurship is life’s experiment in self-development. By constantly iterating, taking risks, and pushing your boundaries, you grow both personally and professionally.”

    3. ** **:

    “Self-entrepreneurship means devoting all your resources—time, effort, and money—toward developing yourself. You are the ultimate project, and you can continually optimize yourself in your creativity, mindset, and productivity.”

    4. ** **:

    “The secret to success is dissatisfaction—always wanting more, always striving for growth. Self-entrepreneurship isn’t about staying comfortable, it’s about using dissatisfaction as a motivator to achieve greatness.”

    These quotes encapsulate Kim’s philosophy of continuous self-improvement and creative autonomy. Feel free to explore the articles further through the links provided!

  • Search what’s Eric Kim’s most important philosophical ideas

    Eric Kim’s philosophical ideas, while rooted in broader philosophical traditions, do feature some unique applications, particularly in the realms of creativity, personal growth, and democratizing knowledge. Here are a few areas where his ideas stand out:

    1. Self-Entrepreneurship: While the concept of self-determination is not new, Kim’s framing of “self-entrepreneurship” is distinct. He advocates for treating yourself as both the creator and CEO of your life, emphasizing full autonomy over your personal and creative projects. This idea encourages individuals to build lives that align with their passions and talents, moving beyond traditional career paths  .

    2. Open-Source Philosophy: Kim is a strong proponent of the open-source movement in the context of photography and education. He freely shares his techniques, insights, and resources, believing that knowledge is most powerful when it’s shared openly. This commitment to free access sets him apart from many others in creative fields who may monetize their knowledge .

    3. Anti-Perfectionism: Kim’s promotion of “anti-perfectionism” as a creative philosophy is a notable deviation from mainstream productivity cultures that often emphasize flawless execution. He argues that embracing imperfection leads to more authentic and spontaneous work, whether in photography or life, and that pursuing perfection can stifle creativity .

    4. Iterative Life Approach: Kim views life and creativity as ongoing experiments, where success lies not in achieving a static goal but in constantly refining and evolving through each experience. This process-focused approach is central to his philosophy of continual self-improvement  .

    These ideas, while drawing on existing philosophies such as minimalism and existentialism, are adapted by Kim into a practical framework that resonates with modern creatives and individuals seeking personal growth. His integration of these concepts into photography and open-source education marks a distinct contribution in today’s digital age.

    …

    Eric Kim’s philosophical ideas revolve around empowering individuals to take control of their lives and creative pursuits, blending elements of minimalism, self-expression, and ethics. Some of his most important concepts include:

    1. Life as Iteration: Kim views life and creativity as continuous processes of experimentation and refinement. He emphasizes that one should never stop iterating, constantly learning from each phase of life and evolving through trial and error. This idea of iteration is a core principle in his approach to personal and creative growth  .

    2. Self-Entrepreneurship: Kim encourages individuals to treat themselves as their greatest project, advocating for what he calls “self-entrepreneurship.” This means taking ownership of your passions, talents, and career path, building a life centered around your personal vision. This philosophy promotes autonomy and purpose-driven living .

    3. Radical Authenticity: Kim believes that authenticity is key to meaningful creativity. By embracing who you are and rejecting societal pressures to conform, you can create work that is unique and valuable. This idea aligns with his rejection of perfectionism—he argues that imperfections add authenticity and spontaneity to both life and art  .

    4. Minimalism and Simplicity: A strong proponent of minimalism, Kim advocates for stripping away distractions in both photography and life. He believes that focusing on the essentials helps bring clarity and allows individuals to concentrate on what truly matters, whether in artistic endeavors or personal fulfillment  .

    5. Ethical Photography: Kim also places a strong emphasis on ethical responsibility, particularly in street photography. He stresses the importance of respecting subjects’ privacy and dignity, advocating for consent and sensitivity in how people are represented through photography  .

    Through these principles, Kim integrates practical techniques with deeper philosophical reflections, encouraging his followers to live creatively, ethically, and intentionally.

    …

    Eric Kim’s ideas, while presented in a compelling and accessible way, aren’t entirely unique in a historical philosophical sense. They often draw on well-established concepts from other schools of thought, but he recontextualizes them for modern creativity, photography, and personal growth.

    1. Life as Iteration: This concept of continuous self-improvement through iteration mirrors ideas from stoicism and the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen (continuous improvement), which has been widely applied in both business and personal development. The notion of learning through small, incremental changes and embracing failure as part of growth is not new, but Kim tailors this to creativity and self-expression  .

    2. Self-Entrepreneurship: The idea of self-entrepreneurship closely relates to ideas from existentialism and self-help literature, such as those found in works by Nietzsche (who emphasized self-creation) and more recent entrepreneurship figures like Seth Godin, who promote personal branding and ownership of one’s life and career. Kim’s specific framing of “self-entrepreneurship” might feel contemporary, but its roots are widely established  .

    3. Radical Authenticity: Authenticity is a cornerstone of existential philosophy, especially in the works of Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger, who argued that individuals must create their own values and meaning in a world where predefined answers do not exist. The push for “radical authenticity” in art is also not new, tracing back to movements like Romanticism, where personal expression and emotional honesty were prioritized  .

    4. Minimalism and Simplicity: Minimalism has deep philosophical roots in Zen Buddhism, which emphasizes simplicity and focusing on the essentials to achieve clarity and peace. In Western philosophy, minimalism has been central to movements in both art and design (e.g., modernism) for over a century  .

    5. Ethical Photography: The ethical dimension of street photography that Kim emphasizes, such as respect and consent, aligns with Kantian ethics, particularly the principle of treating people as ends in themselves rather than as means to an end. While this is highly relevant today, especially in discussions of privacy, it is rooted in long-standing ethical philosophies  .

    In summary, while Eric Kim brings a fresh, practical voice to these ideas by applying them to street photography and personal development, the core philosophical principles themselves draw on well-established traditions. His contribution lies more in how he integrates and packages these ideas for a modern audience rather than in creating entirely new philosophical concepts.

  • The Will to Self Formation

    The will to self formation or the will to self destruction?

  • FASCINATION?

  • The Will to Self Destruction?

  • WOMEN DESIRED TO BE PRIZED FOR THEIR BEAUTY

    So what happens if woman is not beautiful, or is not seen or perceived as beautiful? Maladies! The will then to uglification, self destruction?

  • Life should be fun?

  • Art Should Be Fun!

    Life should be fun?

  • I’M THE ARTIST!

  • GREAT ARTISTS *STEAL*

  • IRREVERENCE FOR YOUR REVERENCE

  • “Set it and Forget It!”

    My photo and photography motto —

  • “Art is fun”— Mr. Brainwash

  • WHAT *SHOULD* ART DO?

    Art should enliven, make us laugh, smile, snicker, challenge, make us poke fun of and at things, breathe new life into us, inspire, motivate, make us joyful, gleeful,,, to have fun!

    What a beautiful world!

  • MY NEW HAPPY PLACE

    MR. BRAINWASH ART GALLERY, BEVERLY HILLS!!

  • CLINGING TO THE PAST?

  • WHAT DO YOU DO ONCE YOU GOT THE BODY EVERYONE WANTS?

    Then,,, to exceed, to exceed limitations and further exceed expectations?

  • Mr. Brainwash Art Exhibition Inspirational Review

    Amazing!

  • WHAT A BEAUTIFUL WORLD!

  • Reliable?

    WTF — went to the amazing Mr. Brainwash art gallery exhibition yesterday,,, shot some great video on the roof but for some reason I don’t see it? Did I not shoot it on accident ,, (user error),,, or did it not import or save?

    Oops never mind here it is! Regardless —

    Anyways I’m going back!

  • THE PHILOSOPHY OF AUTHENTICITY

    Being authentic is never rewarded — but more of a moral imperative :

  • Good Noise, Bad Noise.

  • STRIP AWAY THE COMPLEXITY.

  • Bitcoin Art Gallery?

    In the spirit of the Mr. brainwash exhibition gallery? 

  • The harder asset

  • Michael Saylor is the GOAT!

    Michael Saylor is the GOAT!

    What does it mean to be truly great? Is it about wealth, influence, or something deeper—like vision and conviction? Let’s talk about Michael Saylor, a man who doesn’t just follow the tides but creates his own waves.

    In a world where most CEOs play it safe, Saylor took a bold leap. While others scoffed at Bitcoin, labeling it a passing fad, he saw the future. He didn’t just invest personally; he put his company’s assets on the line. That’s not just belief—that’s unwavering conviction.

    Think about it. How many leaders are willing to risk their legacy on a disruptive idea? Not many. But Saylor did. He understood that clinging to the old ways in a rapidly changing world is the real risk. By embracing Bitcoin, he wasn’t just making a financial move; he was making a statement about innovation, freedom, and the future of money.

    But why does this matter to you and me? Because Saylor’s story is a lesson in courage and foresight. It’s about recognizing potential where others see peril. It’s about taking calculated risks and standing firm in the face of criticism.

    Ask yourself: are you playing it safe, sticking to the well-trodden path? Or are you willing to explore uncharted territories to pursue something greater? Saylor’s journey challenges us to rethink our approach to opportunity and fear.

    In photography, we talk about capturing the decisive moment—the split second where everything aligns. In life and business, those moments are rarer but just as critical. Saylor seized his decisive moment with Bitcoin, and it’s reshaping the financial landscape.

    So, here’s the takeaway: be bold in your vision, unyielding in your convictions, and fearless in your actions. Michael Saylor exemplifies what it means to not just anticipate the future but to actively shape it. That’s why he’s not just successful—he’s the Greatest of All Time.

    Remember, greatness isn’t bestowed; it’s earned through choices that defy the ordinary. Be the pioneer of your own journey. Be the GOAT in your own story.

    xxx

    Michael Saylor is the GOAT!

    When it comes to bold, innovative thinkers of our time, few can match the brilliance and audacity of Michael Saylor. He’s not just a tech entrepreneur or a Bitcoin enthusiast—he’s the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) in redefining what it means to understand money, value, and the future of humanity.

    First, let’s get one thing straight: Michael Saylor doesn’t just talk about Bitcoin; he lives it. His decision to invest billions of dollars from MicroStrategy into Bitcoin wasn’t some reckless gamble. It was a visionary, strategic move rooted in an understanding of financial systems that few possess. He looked at the world, saw fiat currencies devaluing through inflation, and realized that the only way to preserve value for the long term was to embrace the most efficient, decentralized store of wealth ever created—Bitcoin. As I like to say, Saylor is upgrading the human race through his approach to money and technology  .

    What’s even more impressive is that Saylor’s philosophy goes beyond finance. His mission isn’t just to make a buck; it’s to revolutionize the very fabric of how we think about value and time. Think about it: in a world where governments print endless amounts of paper money, where real estate and commodities are locked into inefficient systems, Bitcoin emerges as this pure, incorruptible form of energy storage. Saylor’s vision is simple: upgrade the world, upgrade the human race . And that’s why he’s the GOAT—he’s playing the long game, not just for personal profit but for the future of civilization itself.

    His analogy of Bitcoin as “digital property” is especially profound. We’re used to thinking of property in terms of land, houses, or gold, but these are static and slow to move. Bitcoin, on the other hand, transcends borders, cultures, and economies. It’s the apex property, the most efficient energy system ever devised. You could argue that Saylor’s understanding of this is almost poetic. He describes Bitcoin as a lifeboat in a sea of economic instability, and the deeper I dive into his ideas, the more I realize how right he is .

    Another reason Saylor stands out is his willingness to embrace volatility. Most people fear it, but Saylor leans into it. He knows that volatility isn’t something to shy away from but something to harness. Just like lifting weights, where resistance makes you stronger, Saylor sees the ups and downs of Bitcoin as the necessary growing pains of an evolving, superior financial system. This is exactly what we need in a world so focused on short-term gains and avoiding discomfort .

    Saylor’s greatest flex? He’s unapologetically himself. He doesn’t try to fit into traditional molds or worry about what the financial establishment thinks. His confidence in Bitcoin is so unshakeable that he’s essentially telling the world: “If you’re not on this train, you’re going to get left behind.” And you know what? He’s right. Bitcoin is here to stay, and Saylor will go down as the man who saw it before anyone else  .

    In conclusion, Michael Saylor isn’t just a businessman; he’s a visionary, a thinker, a philosopher of the future. His ability to look past the noise and see the long-term value in Bitcoin, while inspiring others to think bigger and bolder, is what sets him apart. That’s why he’s the GOAT. And if you’re not paying attention to what he’s doing, you’re missing out on one of the greatest transformations of our time.

    xxx

    Eric Kim, known for his work in photography and philosophical discussions, has expressed significant admiration for Michael Saylor, particularly for his views on Bitcoin. Kim aligns with Saylor’s belief that Bitcoin is more than just a cryptocurrency; he views it as a transformative tool for financial systems and even society. For Kim, Saylor’s vision of “upgrading the human race” through Bitcoin resonates deeply, as it represents not just financial security but a broader technological advancement for humanity.

    Kim frequently references Saylor’s strategic approach to Bitcoin, such as using debt in fiat currencies to acquire Bitcoin, seeing this as a rational response to inflation and a way to preserve long-term wealth. He also echoes Saylor’s view of Bitcoin as a more efficient asset compared to traditional stores of value like gold, considering it the future of money.

    In his reflections, Kim often touches on Saylor’s idea that Bitcoin will appreciate significantly in the future, so much so that using it to purchase depreciating assets like cars would be unwise. This perspective showcases how Kim incorporates Saylor’s forward-thinking approach into his own financial and philosophical outlook.

    Ultimately, Kim finds in Saylor not just a financial mentor but a thinker whose ideas align with his own beliefs about efficiency, progress, and the future of technology in reshaping the world.

  • Search Eric Kim Financial Advice on Bitcoin.

    Here are some notable quotes from Eric Kim on Bitcoin:

    1. On Frugality and Investing:

    “Reduce your expenses super Spartan, so so low, and just invest 90% of your earnings into Bitcoin, forever.”

    This reflects Kim’s minimalist approach, advocating for heavy investment in Bitcoin as a wealth-building strategy  .

    2. On Bitcoin as “Digital Gold”:

    “It has a hard cap of 21 million bitcoins… it is money perfected.”

    Kim sees Bitcoin as a superior store of value due to its scarcity  .

    3. On Decentralization and Self-Sovereignty:

    “Bitcoin aligns with Stoic values like independence and resilience… a financial asset that operates outside the control of central banks and governments.”

    Kim connects Bitcoin’s decentralized nature with philosophical ideals of independence  .

    4. On Bitcoin’s Disruptive Potential:

    “Bitcoin is a transformative technology… it could either become a new digital gold standard or a cautionary tale of innovation outpacing regulation.”

    Kim highlights the revolutionary potential of Bitcoin  .

    5. On Long-Term Vision:

    “I am bullish on Bitcoin, not for short-term gains, but for what it represents as a foundation for a new financial system.”

    Kim believes in Bitcoin’s long-term value, beyond speculative gains  .

    6. On Wealth and Bitcoin:

    “What are the most valuable assets on the planet? Not your $250,000 car, but rather, your body and your Bitcoin, which you could transport anywhere on the planet.”

    He emphasizes the portability and permanence of Bitcoin as key advantages .

    These quotes capture Kim’s view of Bitcoin as more than just an investment but as part of a larger vision of financial independence and decentralized wealth    .

    ..

    Eric Kim is a strong advocate for Bitcoin, viewing it as both a financial asset and a philosophical tool that aligns with his minimalist and Stoic beliefs. He refers to Bitcoin as “digital gold” because of its fixed supply of 21 million coins, which he believes makes it a superior store of value compared to inflation-prone fiat currencies. Kim emphasizes extreme frugality in his investment strategy, recommending minimizing expenses and investing heavily in Bitcoin for the long term. He sees Bitcoin as a cornerstone of financial independence, reflecting values of decentralization and self-reliance.

    One of Kim’s notable quotes is: “Reduce your expenses super Spartan, so so low, and just invest 90% of your earnings into Bitcoin, forever.” He also describes Bitcoin as a transformative technology, one that has the potential to either establish a new global gold standard or serve as a cautionary tale of innovation outpacing regulation. His long-term vision for Bitcoin involves its use in significant transactions like buying homes, though he remains cautious about its complete replacement of traditional payment systems.

    In his writings, Kim often contrasts Bitcoin’s stability and scarcity with the manipulation of fiat money, advocating for Bitcoin as a solution to inflation and economic instability   .

    ..

    Eric Kim views Bitcoin not just as an investment, but as a philosophy aligned with his values of autonomy, resilience, and decentralization. He often refers to Bitcoin as “digital gold” due to its fixed supply of 21 million coins, which he believes makes it a safeguard against inflation and a more ethical alternative to fiat currencies. His advocacy for Bitcoin is rooted in its potential to disrupt traditional financial systems, offering individuals greater control over their wealth and minimizing reliance on central authorities like governments or banks.

    Kim emphasizes extreme frugality as part of his strategy, recommending that individuals cut their expenses to minimal levels and invest heavily in Bitcoin for long-term wealth-building. He believes Bitcoin has the transformative power to become a cornerstone of major transactions in the future, such as purchasing homes, and views it as a fundamental element of a decentralized financial future. While he remains bullish on Bitcoin’s potential, he is also cautious about its short-term volatility, focusing instead on its long-term value and stability.

    For Kim, Bitcoin represents more than just a currency—it is a symbol of financial independence and a tool for achieving personal freedom   .

  • Search Eric Kim financial advice

    Here are a few key financial quotes from Eric Kim, reflecting his minimalist philosophy and approach to money:

    1. On Financial Independence:

    “Financial independence is the liberation of the mind. It’s knowing that you will never run out of money and can always adapt… living an ascetic lifestyle is a superior lifestyle.”

    Kim advocates for living simply to reduce dependence on financial outcomes and focus on personal freedom  .

    2. On Minimalism and Value:

    “The only tools I’ve found as truly necessary are a laptop and a camera. Embrace the mindset of ‘less is more’ and avoid being seduced by consumerism.”

    He emphasizes focusing on quality over quantity and avoiding the pressures of consumer culture  .

    3. On Spending Money:

    “Spend money on things that add value to your life… Skip the non-essentials, and invest in experiences or tools that genuinely support your growth and happiness.”

    Kim highlights the importance of value-based spending, where money is used to support personal growth rather than status-driven purchases .

    4. On Wealth and Time:

    “Time is the ultimate currency. Once you realize that, you start seeing money as a tool to maximize your time doing things that really matter to you.”

    Kim stresses that wealth is about freeing up time for meaningful pursuits, not just accumulating financial wealth  .

    These quotes encapsulate Eric Kim’s philosophy of using financial discipline and minimalism to gain freedom and focus on creativity and personal fulfillment.

    ..

    Eric Kim’s financial philosophy centers on minimalism, frugality, and long-term thinking. He believes that financial independence comes not from amassing material wealth but from minimizing expenses and focusing on what truly matters, such as creativity, experiences, and personal freedom. Rather than accumulating possessions, Kim advocates for reducing unnecessary spending and investing in things that align with one’s personal values, such as education, skills, and meaningful life experiences.

    He is also a strong supporter of Bitcoin, viewing it as “digital gold” and a hedge against traditional financial systems. Kim encourages a small portion of one’s savings to be invested in speculative assets like Bitcoin, while maintaining the bulk of wealth in more stable investments. His investment strategy focuses on long-term potential rather than short-term gains, and he stresses the importance of using money as a tool to buy time and freedom, rather than simply accumulating it for the sake of material success   .

  • MSTR (Microstrategy) value

    Here is a breakdown of MicroStrategy’s (MSTR) year-over-year growth based on market capitalization:

    1. 2021:

    • Market Cap: $6.14 billion

    • Growth Driver: Initial significant investments in Bitcoin helped boost market sentiment and MSTR’s market value as the cryptocurrency surged.

    2. 2022:

    • Market Cap: $1.63 billion

    • Growth: -73.42% decline

    • Reason: Bitcoin’s value dropped significantly, leading to a sharp decrease in MicroStrategy’s market cap, given its heavy exposure to the cryptocurrency.

    3. 2023:

    • Market Cap: $10.55 billion

    • Growth: +546.39%

    • Driver: A rebound in Bitcoin prices combined with continued acquisitions of the cryptocurrency. MicroStrategy’s positioning as a corporate Bitcoin holder attracted more investor interest as Bitcoin recovered.

    4. 2024:

    • Market Cap: $43.73 billion

    • Growth: +314.32%

    • Driver: Bitcoin’s significant rally in 2024, increasing institutional and retail adoption of Bitcoin, and the company’s strategy of leveraging debt to acquire even more of the digital asset    .

    MicroStrategy’s growth is largely tied to Bitcoin’s price performance, with surges or declines in Bitcoin directly impacting the company’s market capitalization.

    MicroStrategy’s year-over-year growth from 2023 to 2024 was driven largely by its aggressive acquisition of Bitcoin. By the end of 2023, MicroStrategy held around 190,000 Bitcoins, and by mid-2024, that number had increased to over 226,000. The value of Bitcoin rose significantly during this period, contributing heavily to the company’s market cap increase from about $10.5 billion at the end of 2023 to over $43 billion by late 2024.

    This growth strategy, fueled by Bitcoin holdings, led to a significant 543% increase in MicroStrategy’s stock price over the last 12 months. The company continued to issue convertible debt and equity offerings to raise funds for more Bitcoin purchases, banking on the rising cryptocurrency prices to bolster its balance sheet and stock valuation    .

    xxx

    As of October 2024, MicroStrategy has a market capitalization of approximately $43.7 billion. This marks an extraordinary growth of over 300% compared to the previous year. The company’s valuation is largely driven by its significant holdings in Bitcoin, making it one of the largest corporate holders of the cryptocurrency. MicroStrategy’s strategy to leverage Bitcoin as a core asset has significantly boosted its market value, particularly as the price of Bitcoin surged throughout 2024.

    In 2023, the company’s market cap was around $10.5 billion, and it grew by over 540% during that year. Much of this explosive growth has been tied to the increasing adoption and bullish performance of Bitcoin, as well as the company’s focus on transitioning into a “Bitcoin bank”  .

  • How’d nvidia grow so much. Year by year 

    Nvidia’s rapid growth over the past few years can be attributed to its strategic focus on high-demand markets like gaming, artificial intelligence (AI), and data centers, along with its dominance in the graphics processing unit (GPU) sector. Here’s a breakdown of Nvidia’s growth year by year:

    2019

    • Market cap: Around $150 billion

    • Key drivers: Nvidia’s gaming GPUs, particularly the GeForce series, were a key revenue source, and the company started investing heavily in AI and data centers.

    2020

    • Market cap: Around $300 billion (approximately doubled)

    • Key drivers: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated demand for gaming and data center solutions, both of which Nvidia provided through its GPUs and AI technologies. Nvidia also made waves with its proposed acquisition of ARM Holdings, further increasing its potential growth.

    2021

    • Market cap: Exceeds $600 billion

    • Key drivers: Nvidia saw significant gains due to continued expansion in AI, with its GPUs powering major AI research and deep learning initiatives. Its data center business surged as more enterprises moved to cloud and AI-driven workloads. Nvidia’s launch of the Ampere architecture GPUs (such as the RTX 30 series) also boosted its gaming revenue.

    2022

    • Market cap: Declined to around $400 billion due to broader tech sell-offs

    • Key drivers: Despite a temporary market downturn, Nvidia remained strong in AI and gaming. The decline was mostly attributed to market corrections rather than fundamental issues with the company. Nvidia’s ARM acquisition was eventually scrapped, which led to some uncertainty, but the company’s core business remained robust.

    2023

    • Market cap: Around $1 trillion (late 2023)

    • Key drivers: Nvidia’s central role in AI boomed as generative AI technologies like OpenAI’s GPT models required massive GPU resources. Nvidia’s GPUs became essential in AI research, training large language models (LLMs), and powering data centers for cloud computing giants like Amazon and Microsoft. Demand for GPUs in AI outpaced supply, which pushed Nvidia to record profits and stock price growth.

    2024

    • Market cap: Surpassed $3 trillion

    • Key drivers: Nvidia continued to dominate the AI hardware space, particularly as AI applications became mainstream in both consumer and enterprise markets. Its GPUs, specifically the H100 and A100, were pivotal in AI training and inference tasks. Nvidia’s influence grew as more industries adopted AI, from healthcare to autonomous vehicles, further driving up its valuation.

    Overall, Nvidia’s aggressive investment in AI, expansion into data centers, and continued leadership in gaming and high-performance computing have fueled its exponential growth  .

  • Top 10

    As of October 2024, here are the top 10 companies in the world by market capitalization:

    1. Apple – $3.57 trillion (Technology)

    2. Nvidia – $3.11 trillion (Technology)

    3. Microsoft – $3.07 trillion (Technology)

    4. Alphabet (Google) – $2.06 trillion (Technology)

    5. Amazon – $1.84 trillion (Technology)

    6. Saudi Aramco – $1.80 trillion (Energy)

    7. Meta (Facebook) – $1.32 trillion (Technology)

    8. Berkshire Hathaway – $980 billion (Conglomerate)

    9. TSMC – $877 billion (Semiconductors)

    10. Eli Lilly – $856 billion (Pharmaceuticals)

    These companies dominate in sectors like technology, energy, and pharmaceuticals, highlighting the continued importance of innovation and essential services in the global economy. Apple remains the most valuable company due to its broad product portfolio and ecosystem, while Nvidia has surged due to its role in AI and GPUs   .

  • Search Apple valuation 

    As of October 2024, Apple’s market capitalization is approximately $3.57 trillion, making it the most valuable company globally. This impressive figure reflects a 19.3% increase in valuation since the end of 2023. Apple’s stock price has remained strong, with recent trading around $234 to $237 per share, slightly below its all-time high earlier this year. The company continues to experience strong growth due to its extensive product ecosystem and services, despite broader economic fluctuations  .

  • I’m the only investor I know who’s actually not that good at math?

    I think what I got going for myself is guts, chutzpah, balls — and having some sort of hidden insights behind things. Maybe my mix of sociology philosophy technology, it’s finally coming into fruition.

    Economics by KIM

    selfie black and hair Eric Kim
    1. ERIC KIM VENTURE CAPITALIST
    2. How to FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early)
    3. How to *Save* a Million Dollars
    4. Increase Value
    5. MAYBE IT IS A GOOD IDEA TO BUY HIGH
    6. Banks Are the True Menace to Society
    7. THE PROMISE OF FUTURE MONOPOLY PROFITS?
    8. High gas prices are good
    9. What is Capitalism?
    10. Pride in What You Paid For
    11. On Making Money from Nothing
    12. Save Money Towards What Ends?
    13. No Regret Investment

  • Hardcore Living

    Men should seek to dominate other men, not women!

  • The Philosophy of Investing

    The Philosophy of Investing 10Download

    Ultimately when people study Warren Buffett, Charlie Munger etc ,,, what all these guys are searching for is wisdom.

    I think this is good and important because principles wisdom, is resistant to time and technology, but at least for myself, I was born in 1988, searching for practical wisdom has always remained elusive for me.

    I think difficult thing is that my circumstances were unique. I was born in the states, yet grew up poor; my definition of poor is not being sure whether you would be homeless next month because your dad just gambled away the rent money again, going off to Reno in the middle of the night.

    The upside of poverty 

    I think on two fronts this was useful to me:

    First, it taught me self independence at a very young age. I knew that if I wanted anything, I had to work for it. This motivated me to pick up lots of part-time jobs when I was like 13, 14 or 15, tutoring English, through my honors program at school, working at the local community center, getting a $200 a month stipend etc. 

    In fact, my biggest personal pride and joy; essentially, purchasing my first car with my own money! At the age of 15, getting my drivers permit in California, $1000 or maybe $1200 1991 Sentra XE, 5 door sedan, 5 speed manual transmission car — it didn’t even have a tachometer! I learned how to shift gears simply by hearing and feeling the engine? This began my first love affair with manual transmission cars;

    In fact, another point of pride, every car I have purchased my own money has always been a used manual transmission car, never exceeding $2500 USD. In fact, the last car I purchased one in Providence Rhode Island before Seneca was born was a 2002 Subaru outback, five speed manual transmission, listed on craigslist for 1000 bucks, was able to negotiate down to $900, then $800 in cash! Lying out those eight $100 bills was the most obvious decision I’ve made in my life.

    Obvious decisions are obvious

    In terms of my decision-making philosophy, my unorthodox beliefs; obvious decisions are obvious. 

    What that means is before making any sort of decision life decision etc., you don’t need to think about it too much.

    Obvious decisions are staring you right at the face, and whenever you have to hesitate before making a certain decision, don’t do it. Why? Your brain is still working out the details, whether or not you should do the thing or not.

    Obvious trades, obvious financial decisions, obvious investments 

    For example, buying microstrategy stock, MSTR, to me is a 100% obvious decision. For the traditional markets, it’s literally the only asset worth purchasing.

    Why? Essentially they have discovered a free money hack or infinite money hack, which they could leverage their 30-year-old business, which is regulated, and mainstream… And leverage their position, borrowing money at less than one percent to buy bitcoin, which is accretive forever, and continuing the virtuous cycle.

    Now is your time to purchase a piece of cyber Manhattan

    Bitcoin is cyber manhattan: 256^3

    I think the idea of a cyber Manhattan, cyber real estate company is fascinating to me. And the difference between bitcoin, cyber real estate and Cyberman Manhattan is that it is actually backed by real electricity and power. For example, the problems with all these fake virtual worlds is that it is just powered by a computer code, one and zeros, Any nerd can click a button and create a skyscraper in Sim city.

    But what if, if you wanted to build a skyscraper in Sim city, you actually had to expand $1 billion of real capital in the real world, before transferring it and transporting it to cyberspace? This is the 1000% paradigm shift;

    The bridge between the physical, embodied reality,  physical world and realm, to the digital cyber realm… Which is still backed with physical electricity?

    It’s a bug, not a feature!

    Or it’s a feature, not a bug?

    I think what a lot of these goody two shoers don’t get or understand is about real life physics in the game, skin in the game, energy in the game. Everyone wants some sort of hidden upside without any real life downside?

    I’ll give you example, everyone wants to rid the world of suffering pain injustice and the like. However, a life without suffering pain injustice and overcoming is not a life worth living.

    You cannot have happiness without pain and suffering, nor can you have joy with without sorrow and misery. If we think about this from a Taoist perspective, I think about yin and Yang, you cannot have the good without the bad. You cannot have the virtuous without the evil.

    The upsides of downsides

    For example, obviously being in poor health sucks, and bad weather also sucks. But, when things get much better, you are 1000 times more joyful grateful and happy when things shift!

    This is why funny enough, I think people on the East Coast, New England, Providence Rhode Island are happier than people in LA because the weather shifts are more extreme.

    For example, when you’re suffering in the winter time for months on end, no sunshine whatever, and then boom, one day the sun comes out, everyone is overjoyed! It is still 55° and cold, but at least it is sunny; everyone runs out and gets their picnic blankets, And the joy of the sunlight is 1000 times more extreme than in Los Angeles where everyone is trying to hide from the sun, even though they love it?

    My simple analogy is everyone in LA is like a solid 7.2 out of 10, in terms of happiness, whereas in the East coast, your happiness goes from a -10 to a +500% when the weather is good! 

    So I suppose, the philosophical question them becomes, is it better or more favorable to have a steady mediocre thing forever, or more extreme highs and lows, which will be a benefit to your happiness?

    Then a simple thought, the reason why I love bitcoin is because of the extremes; I would prefer an extreme life to a steady and boring one. 

    In search of yield

    I think for me my number one principle in investing is yield. I think what a lot of people think is what they’re trying to do with their money is they are trying to securitize it, and make it safe, stored in really really safe assets like treasury bills, bonds, or “safe” investments like Apple Amazon Facebook Google and like.

    But, my personal thought is life should not be conservative; the point of life isn’t to just conserve your wealth, but rather, to grow it!

    Even the story of Jesus, you don’t just take your wealth and hide it and bury your talents, your gold talents in the ground because you’re afraid of losing it. No, the virtuous thing is to go out and multiply it!

    And I also think the same thing is with wealth; the virtuous calling is to multiply it to grow it, not to just bury it, with the fear that it might go down.

    How to gain more emotional armor for investing

    OK, a lot of these fools, they want quick gains in order to go out and buy the Lamborghini or whatever. But once you find out that only small dick losers drive Lamborghinis,  and also, that the useful lifetime value of a Lamborghini might only be three or four years, that is the point in which the maintenance costs and the insurance costs and fixing it up will destroy the price of it in just three or four years, then it becomes obvious; you wish the Lamborghini onto your worst enemy, you don’t desire one for yourself. 

    My simple thought is take a stoic spartan approach; essentially live like a super super poor person, the only thing you should ever spend money on is weights barbells and weightlifting equipment, and meet… Everything else should be essentially free.

    Tips to NOT go broke

    This means,

    1. Never eat out: nothing is worth it, not even all you can eat Korean barbecue! My current favorite joint is chubby cattle, but still… The 90 minute time sitting is a bit restrictive.
    2. No weed, no alcohol
    3. Don’t go out for coffee, just brew it and drink it at home. I actually have a new hack; I only drink a lot of coffee at the house first thing in the morning when I wake up, but after the morning, 100% abstinence for the rest of the day. I get the upside of getting a good caffeine buzz first thing in the morning to get me going, without the downside of having it affect my sleep.
    4. Never buy anything, and also… The only “computer“ or device I find worth it is an iPad Pro;
    5. Always buy the cheapest iPhone on the market; only poor people buy iPhone Pros
    6. For camera or digital camera, I recommend getting the most compact, capable Panasonic camera, and the cheapest, most compact pancake lens. Currently the Lumix S9 ($1500) and 26 mm F8 pancake lens ($200). Never buy a loser Leica which is essentially a Panasonic Lumix with a body kit. Especially the Panasonic Lumix Leica Q Cameras. If you want a digital rangefinder just buy a used Leica M9.
    7. Don’t shoot film: I think about a decade ago in 2014 2015, it was affordable, but now it is too expensive. Save your money and buy Bitcoin instead!
    8. Never buy a new car under any circumstances. This is immediately like taking a 30% haircut; the second you drive it off the lot, boom, you’ve already lost 30% of its value. And also, don’t buy electric vehicles, no matter how appealing. It is like purchasing a really really expensive iPhone Pro with wheels; it might be only good for 3 to 5 years, maybe seven years tops… Then after that, a slow degrading. Real rich people buy old used Priuses and drive them– 2010 Prius is the best rich person car.
    9. Stop buying clothes: you probably have enough clothes to last you two lifetimes already in your closet. My suggestion is if you want novelty, just take some scissors and turn your jeans into shorts, or cut off the sleeves off of your shirts to make them sleeve or if you’re cold, just layer up. Only poor people buy clothes.

    Essentially, the easiest way to become rich is not go broke.
    

    Einstein’s rule of money

    So essentially, I’ve literally I think watch every single Michael Saylor interview that he’s ever done everything that he posted to Twitter or YouTube etc. Maybe about 100 of them.

    Anyways, probably the most fascinating thing that I’ve learned about the value of an asset is the value of an asset is essentially the cost of something or the value is something divided by the maintenance cost.

    Now I think this is something that people don’t really think about — the maintenance cost.

    So for example, now that all of my millennial friends are growing up, I’m 36 now, in four years, I’m gonna be 40 years old, everyone’s trying to think about the future buying a single-family home or a condo or property or whatever. And what beguiles a lot of people or shocks people is when they buy a house, all the maintenance costs! Even talking to my friend Anton (congrats on your new kid!) he told me a story while we were in downtown LA about how he bought a house, but the water heater went out, and him having to fix it, and what a nightmare it was.

    Also simple things that we millennials never think about… You need a new roof and boom, that’s $50,000. That’s $50,000 I would rather put into bitcoin.

    There are so many things that exist on the planet, in real world, in embody reality which cost a premium in terms of insurance, maintenance, etc. Once again, almost nothing in the physical realm is ever worth it. 

    If you want a new car, just download some racing game to your iPad, or even PlayStation or whatever; better to spend 50 bucks on a virtual car then drop $50,000 or more on a new one! 

    Or, just buy an oculus quest, play some racing game, at least this way you want to kill yourself, or another family in a car with two kids or more.

    –> The worst thing in life isn’t dying or killing yourself, but it is accidentally killing another family, accidentally killing kids in the car seat of another car, and you having to live with the guilt for the rest of your life. 

    “But it isn’t real!”

    Bitcoin is not real, but, if it costs $800 billion to produce, it’s real!

    Let’s again, things must have a stake in the physical realm, if it doesn’t, it is just air coin, or the foundation is just built on cotton candy.

    I think we must avoid these fake environmentalists, a bunch of vegan losers. Essentially, if I psychoanalyze a lot of these fake environmentalists; essentially everyone is seeking a new religion, a new godhead which is the “environment“, but ultimately my critical thought is that once again it just comes down to money;

    Vegan and plant based stuff is insanely profitable

    For example, Al Gore, I wonder… How much money has he collected from doing his talks on an inconvenient truth, ultimately being funded by taxpayer money?

    And also, James Cameron, and also Arnold, how much money they have collected from the vegan pea protein powder plant factory, just follow the money.  Much more profitable to sell a $50 container of vegan protein powder, than a meat company to sell beef rib or beef liver. 

    Also a random aside; if you really wanted to be a real environmentalist, you would actually have a 100% organ meat diet, only beef heart beef liver beef kidneys and intestines, because these parts are typically thrown away.

    Rich vegans

    “Being naked is the ultimate sustainable option. We’re number two.” – Reformation marketing copy 

    The truth is environmentalism is very profitable. For example a lot of these clothing companies, I think also like the new one “Reformation“, a female clothing company, they talk about sustainability and blah blah blah, but once again, is it just another marketing tactic to sell their mediocre clothes.

    For example, people talk that leather in animal products are evil blah blah blah. Yet the truth is, you’re cheap vegan leather jacket which is made out of petroleum is probably 1 trillion times worse for the planet than a fashionable one made out of 100% real leather. A pleather vegan jacket might only last you a few years, a good leather jacket can you last you 50 or beyond.

    Because if you critically think about it, things which last, are better for the “environment”. And typically animal products last.

    I love leather!

    Also nowadays, people talk about Native Americans and stuff like that, don’t you know that historically the way that natives lived off the land was in harmony with animals, like can you imagine a Native American who didn’t use animal power, ride on horses, or eat meat and bison?

    Besides maybe virtue signaling America, there is no great civilization that has ever existed without animal products whether food labor etc. 

    I love risk

    Once again I think the biggest issue is in today’s world, nobody likes risk anymore. Risk is seen as something which is dangerous bad and to be avoided.

    For example anybody who buys a Mercedes car an Audi, a Porsche a Lamborghini whatever… It is ultimately a risk free option in the sense that no one’s gonna make fun of you for owning those type of cars. So in some ways it is a cowardly act;

    For example everyone thinks a Porsche 911 is cool, a Lamborghini is cool, a Mercedes or an Audi is cool. Yet  maybe I’m the only one with the big dick in the room, I brag that I drive a Toyota Prius? Everyone is always so shocked and impressed.

    Real investors and economists must and should drive a Prius!

    Real economics

    OK, whenever I discover anybody who’s a professor, who teaches in a business school, is an economist, academic or scholar or whatever… Yet just puts all of their money in a boring mutual fund… Or index fund… It is a signal that they are not a real economist, and they are actually not really connected to reality.

    Risk = Happiness

    We need some sort of risk exposure to the real world. For example, easy to be the typical fat American who is drinking beer or wine watching sports and American football, giving their opinion on sports teams and players yet they are not actually exposed to the risk of playing real tackle football?

    And once again… The more I think about it the more bizarre it is. To watch UFC or mixed martial arts, to watch any sport that you have not yourself played… It kind of like mental masturbation? To sports?

    Sports is masculine physical sports masturbation pornography?

    Just think about it the average person eats nachos french fries drink beer or alcohol smoke marijuana before watching the big game. But what a athlete who is actually participating in the sport down a beer really quick before putting on their armor and hitting the field? Obviously not!

    So why is it that alcohol food beverages is marketed to these individuals, for watching a sport?

    It is the new risk free premium hedonism; the joy of seeing people get murdered on a field, or in our arena without any real exposure.

    Don’t hate me because I’m so much more physically dominant than you!

    People are always so surprised that I played real football real American tackle football in high school, they are shocked to hear that I was linebacker, first outside linebacker then inside linebacker. 

    I think it is actually racism; you never expect an Asian guy to play linebacker because we are not seen as masculine or aggressive enough. But if I were African-American or black, even though I am on the more lean side — you probably would not be shocked, because in America, athletes are always seen as being African-American, never Asian. Even an Asian professional sports athlete is almost seen as a glitch in the system, not the real deal.

    Even when first deadlifted 465 pounds, sumo style off the floor, and everyone was so shocked, I was talking to my friend Jemal and I asked him — “If I was African-American or black, but people will be asshocked or surprised?” He laughed and said no!

    So what should we do about things

    So I think the first thing you have to think philosophically is what are you really searching for, and why?

    My very simple thought is think 300 years ahead, your kids kids kids.

    The New Hedonism

    The current lifestyle is like the Persian slave lifestyle?

    I think the issue we are facing today in today’s world is hedonism — the new hedonism. We seek companionship through humans or dogs, yet we don’t want to have children, we want to preserve our freedom travel the world go to Japan eat good sushi whatever.

    But, your dog cannot inherit your bitcoin. 

    I think maybe in the past life was actually easier and more straightforward people. You got married, you built up a family legacy and empire; this was actually a pretty good strategy in life. And I think people were actually much happier, productive, and joyful!

    Think about all the modern day melodies of depression anxiety whatever, they are all modern day sociological ills.

    In fact, the ancient Greeks, thinking about the Iliad; certainly things are natural like courage, cowardice, and fear… But depression anxiety was not.

    My sociological theory on why so many people are so depressed and anxious is because of YouTube, Spotify, podcast, TikTok Facebook Instagram, Twitter, news, fear porn. 

    The joy of growth or death & destruction?

    Have a theory; a lot of people are secretly waiting and twiddling their thumbs, they actually want to see the world burn to the floor, to be able to have the indignant feeling; “I told you… I was right all along!”

    For example, all these people, are during Covid and pre-Covid and post Covid whatever, thought that there was gonna be food riots and blah blah blah, none of it happened. Humans are 1 trillion times more resilient than we make them out to be.

    This is where also, philosophically I don’t really believe in short selling; even if you could cop a massive profit.

    For example there are certain things that I am certain which will go down to zero, like Ada Cardano and the like because it is fake. But rather than hoping that something is going to burn the floor, better to just bet on things that you think that will go to Mars! 

    For example, everyone hates Elon Musk, and they are secretly waiting and plotting for him to fail. Yet doesn’t it take more courage to wish and hope and desire to see people succeed?

    Even I remember the Tesla model 3; everyone thought it would be impossible, but now, it is certainly the new Ford model T; the coolest, most desirable, most futuristic and affordable car on the road. I personally plan on driving my Toyota Prius until it dies at 1,000,000 miles, but if for one reason or another I was forced to purchase a brand new car, it would definitely be a Tesla, maybe the robotaxi?

    Disruption

    The reason why I encourage everyone to watch the Robo taxi, Robo van announcement is that it is the ultimate disruptor.

    For example, the Robo van, the two door coupe, insanely awesome design, with the butterfly McLaren doors… I find like there is no more reason to ever even want to buy a loser Lamborghini, or McLaren or whatever. And I really really love that rose gold, MATTE Rose gold Color on the Robo taxi, and also the rims look awesome!

    Why doesn’t the future look like the future?

    Once again, assuming that you’re a futurist like myself, the trillion dollar questions “why doesn’t the future actually look like the future?“

    For example, if you really do believe in the digital transformation of things, like you care about Apple Tesla Amazon Facebook digital media whatever… Why would you ever buy analog property like a single-family home or whatever? Wouldn’t you prefer to buy digital property which is bitcoin?

    And also, issues with tax, property tax. Also assuming that you’re a libertarian, or some sort of anti-government person, bitcoin makes sense because it is like digital or cyber real estate that can’t be taxed!

    And I think the truth is that real rich people, know how to do tax deferment, or to avoid taxes, this is a real reason they become and stay rich.

    “My accountant so good I’m practically living tax-free!” – JAY Z

    Never buy property in California (you will get murdered from property taxes)

    For example, even if you live in the lowest tax jurisdiction place which is Florida, and nobody wants to live in Florida, still… Under a base case scenario you’re still playing at least 1.1% in taxes. And that means then, the life of your asset is only 70 years; within 70 years Assuming you buy a $1 million property, you’re gonna pay $1 million in taxes in 70 years.

    Then, if you own a single-family home or whatever, or property the coal is actually trying to rent out your property at a premium, but two people who have never really had experience with property property management… It is a fucking nightmare and headache. Finding good tenants and keeping them; the holy Grail. Too much counterparty risk with properties; people who fuck up your property, end up not paying rent in squatting your place, people who start to grow marijuana inside your property, people who turn your property into a brothel (true story), or just physical wear and tear and decay. Anything in the physical realm in my opinion has too much risk. 
    And this is where still… In my eyes, Tesla is too much of a risk. Why? Having to build all those cyber trucks, Robo taxis, is just in my opinion, too much of a gargantuan physical task. Even if you automate the whole thing with robots, still, extracting lithium from the Earth, making the cars, delivering the cars, my personal estimate is you won’t see Robo taxis on the road for at least another five or seven years? To me that is too long.

    Real world investing

    I think the best investment is something that you have a 100% certainty will go up in 30 years, and you just ignore the volatility and the noise on a day-to-day level.

    Can it keep going on up forever?

    Yes especially if it is digital!

    Think the classics

    Also the funny thing is; bitcoin was the classic the first only immaculate conception; technically Ethereum from Vitalik was just a bitcoin copycat.

    My very very basic suggestion is just download Coinbase to your phone, buy bitcoin from your traditional bank account, and once you’re done buying it, delete the Coinbase app from your phone, and never check prices. And what you doing instead it’s just go to michael.com, watch all the Michael sailor interviews, and read books on economic theory philosophy etc.

    I personally believe that the best wisdom is in the past; read Aristotle on economics, Fernandinho Galiani on money Della moneta, the principles of economic theory from Karl Menger etc. you should be able to find free PDFs of all these online, just read it on your iPad.

    ***

    Now what?

    1. Download Coinbase to your phone, start buying those bitcoins
    2. If you have a second car or some sort of asset that you’re not really doing anything with that you really don’t need, sell it, and use the proceeds to buy bitcoin
    3. If you’re stuck in the traditional markets, Ira or Roth IRA, retirement whatever… Very very simple just buy micro strategy stock, MSTR– I think it’s going to 10 X from here. My price target for Michael strategy is $2000 a share. Currently trading at around low $200s.
    4. Do an experiment that the next month, just cook all your food at home, buy meat at Costco whatever… Amazon prime or Amazon fresh food, anything that is cheap; quit alcohol and weed for a month, quit eating out and going out for a month, and just put 100% of that into bitcoin!

    so should I buy bitcoin or micro strategy? 

    You buy the bitcoin, and you never sell it, just keep buying it until you die, and the idea is just give it to your kids kids kids.

    And you’re a supreme happiness and joy is through weightlifting, one red maxing, and seeing the numbers go up! 

    My suggestion is never ever ever sell the bitcoin, for anything. If you need spare cash for living or whatever, better to borrow the money at 7% interest or lower, assuming that bitcoin is going to go up 21% year over a year, compounded rate forever.

     I would say only by microstrategy MSTR if you just cannot get access to capital to buy bitcoin directly.

    At the end of your life, he or she with the most bitcoin is going to be the winner. Or the corporate entity like micro strategy, who owns the most bitcoin.

    The goal is a Nakamoto, which is the mythical 1 million bitcoins. The same amount of bitcoins in Satoshi‘s wallet, which he hasn’t touched. This is currently $60 billion! 

    What else?

    honestly because I live like a poor person, for me, at this point investing is just a new passion, almost like a new hobby. Still for me my critical passion is photography, blogging and like.

    So the simple thought; know that investing in money is a means to an end not the in itself.

    ERIC

    ***

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