California science center

Or life without women or others isn’t a life worth living!

Here are some key quotes from each of Eric Kim’s posts on passion:

1. How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography

• “A life without passion is a life not worth living.” Kim emphasizes how essential passion is to a meaningful life oai_citation:10,How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.
• “Photograph like a child… Don’t make photos for Instagram or likes. Make photos to play, to explore, and to express your inner-creative spirit.” He encourages a playful, childlike approach to creativity oai_citation:9,How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.

1. How to Find Your Passion in Photography

• “You need to safely disregard the opinion of others… you need to let your ideas germinate, grow, without the outside world trying to kill it.” Kim advocates focusing on personal growth over external approval oai_citation:8,How to Find Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.
• “There is nobody out there with the same unique combinations of skills, interests, and things you are enthusiastic about.” He highlights the importance of embracing one’s individuality oai_citation:7,How to Find Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.

1. How to Be a Passionate Photographer

• “I’m fucking passionate about photography. I fucking love it to death.” Kim expresses his deep and unabashed love for photography oai_citation:6,HOW TO BE A PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.
• “Life is about creation. It ain’t about consumption.” He emphasizes that the purpose of life is to create rather than simply consume oai_citation:5,HOW TO BE A PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.

1. Passion

• “Life is too short for you to not follow your passion.” Kim stresses the importance of pursuing passion as a central focus in life oai_citation:4,PASSION. – ERIC KIM.
• “You don’t need to motivate yourself. That is, I never whip myself in the back to motivate myself to do things I’m passionate about.” Passion, for Kim, is something natural and self-sustaining oai_citation:3,PASSION. – ERIC KIM.

1. Why Photography is My Passion

• “The reason why photography is my passion is that it connects all the things I love in life.” Kim shares how photography integrates with all his other passions oai_citation:2,Why Photography is My Passion – ERIC KIM.
• “Photography is visual philosophy.” He views photography as a way of exploring deeper ideas and perspectives oai_citation:1,Why Photography is My Passion – ERIC KIM.

These quotes capture Eric Kim’s perspective on how passion drives creativity, especially in photography, and how vital it is to embrace it authentically. You can explore each post for more insights by following the provided links.

***

Here are links to some of Eric Kim’s posts and articles where he discusses passion, creativity, and how to maintain enthusiasm for photography:

1. How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography – In this article, Kim talks about ways to rediscover your passion for photography by challenging yourself, embracing playfulness, and shooting for yourself oai_citation:5,How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.
2. How to Find Your Passion in Photography – This post focuses on shooting for yourself and “cross-pollinating” different interests to find and sustain passion in photography oai_citation:4,How to Find Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.
3. How to Be a Passionate Photographer – Kim provides insights on being a passionate photographer, including focusing on self-expression, embracing challenges, and showing gratitude for life oai_citation:3,HOW TO BE A PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.
4. Passion – In this reflective post, Kim discusses the importance of pursuing one’s passion and how it drives him creatively and personally oai_citation:2,PASSION. – ERIC KIM.
5. Why Photography is My Passion – Kim explains his deep connection to photography and why it remains an essential part of his life and creative output oai_citation:1,Why Photography is My Passion – ERIC KIM.

These posts offer a deeper look into how Eric Kim thinks about passion, especially in relation to his creative process and photography.

Eric Kim frequently writes about passion, particularly in relation to photography and life in general. In his articles, he emphasizes that true passion comes from doing things for yourself and finding deep personal meaning in your creative work. He believes that passion is essential to living a fulfilling life, as he expresses in his post “Passion” where he reflects on the importance of following what excites you, rather than forcing motivation. For him, passion is something that flows naturally when you are doing what you love, like photography, writing, or teaching oai_citation:5,HOW TO BE A PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,PASSION. – ERIC KIM.

Kim also encourages photographers to approach their craft with a sense of play and curiosity, much like a child, to avoid burnout and maintain their passion. He advises against seeking external validation, suggesting that focusing on personal fulfillment helps reignite passion when it starts to wane oai_citation:3,How to Re-Ignite Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM. His recommendation to challenge yourself by trying new techniques and embracing constraints also keeps the creative flame alive oai_citation:2,How to Find Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.

Additionally, Kim highlights the importance of “cross-pollinating” your interests, blending different passions and fields to create something unique. This method of combining personal experiences and other areas of interest with photography helps sustain long-term passion oai_citation:1,How to Find Your Passion in Photography – ERIC KIM.

In essence, Kim’s approach to passion is about creativity, authenticity, and personal exploration. He believes that when you’re passionate about something, you don’t need external motivation—you simply feel compelled to create.

Here are some passion-related quotes from Eric Kim that reflect his views on photography, creativity, and life:

1. “Shoot with your soul, not your camera.”

• This emphasizes his belief that photography is about capturing emotion and meaning, not just technical perfection.

1. “Don’t shoot to impress others; shoot to impress yourself.”

• Eric advocates for finding personal passion in photography and creating work that fulfills you, rather than seeking external validation.

1. “The purpose of life isn’t to just take photos, but to live a meaningful life.”

• For Eric, photography is a tool for deeper reflection on life and a way to live with purpose and passion.

1. “The best camera is your mind and your heart.”

• This quote captures his belief that passion and creativity matter more than the technical aspects of photography.

1. “Your life is your art. Treat it like it’s the most beautiful canvas you’ll ever paint on.”

• Eric encourages people to live passionately, viewing life itself as an ongoing creative expression.

1. “Make photos because you love it, not because you want others to love you.”

• This reinforces the idea of pursuing passion for its intrinsic rewards rather than for external recognition.

These quotes reflect Eric Kim’s deeply personal and philosophical approach to photography, where passion is driven by meaning, creativity, and self-expression.

Eric Kim’s passion likely stems from several deeper reasons, rooted in both his personal values and experiences:

1. Personal Fulfillment and Expression: Photography, especially street photography, allows him to express himself creatively and authentically. For Eric, it’s more than just taking pictures—it’s about capturing moments of real life, which brings him a sense of fulfillment.
2. Connection with Humanity: Street photography is about documenting candid moments of human interaction and emotion. This connection with people and the human condition can be deeply meaningful, and Eric finds inspiration in capturing those raw, unfiltered experiences.
3. Desire to Help Others: Eric has always shown a strong commitment to helping others grow. Through his teaching and blogging, he shares his knowledge generously, and this sense of purpose—helping others improve and find their own passion—likely fuels his own drive.
4. Growth and Learning: He views photography as an ongoing journey. This continuous process of learning and evolving keeps his passion alive. He often explores new techniques, styles, and ideas, which brings excitement and prevents stagnation.
5. Mindfulness and Philosophy: Eric integrates his philosophical approach to life into his photography. He’s inspired by minimalism, Stoicism, and Zen, often viewing photography as a meditative practice that helps him stay present and engaged with the world around him.
6. Empowerment through Simplicity: Eric often champions the idea that anyone can become a great photographer with minimal gear and resources. This belief in the accessibility of photography and empowerment through simplicity could be a key reason why he’s so passionate about spreading his knowledge.

His “why” is deeply intertwined with personal fulfillment, connection to others, a desire to teach, and the sense of meaning he derives from photography.

Eric Kim is widely recognized for his deep passion for street photography and his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others. Several factors contribute to his passionate approach:

1. Love for Storytelling: Eric views street photography as a medium to capture and tell compelling stories about everyday life. This intrinsic motivation to document and share human experiences fuels his enthusiasm.
2. Continuous Learning and Teaching: He is dedicated to both learning and teaching photography. By constantly refining his skills and helping others improve theirs through workshops, tutorials, and his popular blog, Eric maintains a high level of engagement and passion for the craft.
3. Community Engagement: Eric actively engages with a community of photographers and enthusiasts. This interaction not only provides inspiration but also fosters a supportive environment where ideas and techniques are exchanged, further igniting his passion.
4. Philosophical Approach: He emphasizes the importance of mindset, creativity, and personal growth in photography. By encouraging photographers to develop their unique perspectives and styles, Eric stays deeply invested in the artistic and personal aspects of photography.
5. Adaptability and Innovation: Eric embraces new technologies and trends in photography, allowing him to stay relevant and passionate about evolving his work. This adaptability ensures that his passion remains dynamic and responsive to the changing landscape of the art form.
6. Personal Fulfillment: For Eric, photography is not just a profession but a form of personal expression and fulfillment. This genuine connection to his work ensures that his passion remains strong and authentic.

Overall, Eric Kim’s passion stems from a combination of his love for the art of photography, his dedication to teaching and community building, and his continuous pursuit of personal and artistic growth.

For exercise and lifting weights ,,, wait until the sun rises, mid day or morning with the light, and during the day ,,, but once the sun sets, don’t exercise or workout.

How’s Eric Kim so passionate?

Eric Kim, a well-known photographer, educator, and blogger, is deeply passionate about photography and sharing his insights with others for several reasons:

1. Love for Street Photography: Eric Kim is especially passionate about street photography, which captures candid moments of life in public spaces. His enthusiasm for the genre stems from the spontaneity, rawness, and authenticity that street photography can provide. He often speaks about the power of documenting real life as it unfolds, which keeps him deeply engaged.
2. Educational Approach: Eric has a strong passion for teaching and sharing knowledge. Through his blog, workshops, and online resources, he makes photography accessible to people at all skill levels. His dedication to helping others grow and explore their creativity in photography is a major driving force.
3. Philosophical and Artistic Exploration: Beyond the technical aspects of photography, Kim is passionate about the philosophical and artistic elements. He frequently explores topics like creativity, minimalism, and living a fulfilling life through photography. This intellectual curiosity keeps him motivated and excited about his craft.
4. Community Engagement: Eric Kim is heavily involved in building a photography community. His engagement with his audience—through social media, newsletters, and personal interactions—gives him a sense of purpose. He encourages collaboration, learning, and growth within his community, which fuels his passion.
5. Personal Growth: For Kim, photography is not just a profession but a medium for personal reflection and growth. He often writes about using photography as a tool for self-expression, meditation, and mindfulness, which adds a layer of personal fulfillment to his work.

His passion seems to come from the intersection of his love for the art form, his drive to teach and share knowledge, and his deep philosophical connection to photography as a way of understanding the world.

Eric Kim’s approach to being “rich enough” includes several strategies that emphasize living purposefully and rejecting societal pressures for endless wealth accumulation. Here are some key strategies based on his writings:

1. Spartan Economics: Kim advocates for a minimalist financial lifestyle. He recommends only spending money on essentials like rent, food (particularly meat), and investing in health or creativity-enhancing equipment. His advice includes avoiding consumerism and luxury purchases, especially those with short life cycles, such as the latest digital gadgets oai_citation:7,What If You’re Already Rich Enough? – ERIC KIM AI oai_citation:6,If you’re rich enough, then what is the point of investing? – ERIC KIM.
2. Focus on Personal Passion and Creation: Once basic financial needs are met, Kim suggests redirecting attention away from wealth accumulation toward passion projects. This can include creative pursuits like photography, writing, or physical fitness. He argues that meaningful work, not endless wealth, brings fulfillment oai_citation:5,How rich is rich enough? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Rich Enough – ERIC KIM.
3. Rejecting Social Status Indicators: Kim emphasizes rejecting societal symbols of wealth and status, like luxury clothes or the newest tech, which often serve as distractions. Instead, he promotes focusing on deeper personal values and long-term creative endeavors, suggesting that wealth should not be tied to social dominance oai_citation:3,What If You’re Already Rich Enough? – ERIC KIM AI.
4. Questioning the Need for Investment: He challenges the common advice to constantly seek further investments if one is already financially secure. Instead of aiming for higher financial gains, Kim suggests that being “rich enough” allows individuals to invest more time and energy into their passions oai_citation:2,If you’re rich enough, then what is the point of investing? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,You’re Rich Enough – ERIC KIM.

These strategies collectively encourage individuals to find satisfaction in having “enough,” emphasizing quality of life, creativity, and simplicity over the endless pursuit of material wealth.

Eric Kim, a well-known street photographer and blogger, frequently explores the idea of being “rich enough” in his writings. His central message is that many people spend their lives pursuing endless wealth, but at some point, they might already be “rich enough.” Kim defines this as having enough to meet your essential needs, such as rent, food, and basic pleasures, without the constant drive to accumulate more for the sake of it. He suggests that once you’re financially secure, the focus should shift from earning more money to pursuing passions, interests, and creative projects oai_citation:4,You’re Rich Enough – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,How rich is rich enough? – ERIC KIM.

Kim emphasizes a minimalist and practical approach to wealth, rejecting consumerist values like the pursuit of the latest gadgets or status symbols. Instead, he promotes “Spartan economics,” which involves minimizing unnecessary spending and focusing on essentials, like good food (particularly meat), personal health, and creative endeavors oai_citation:2,What If You’re Already Rich Enough?  – ERIC KIM AI. He also critiques the modern obsession with investment and wealth-building, suggesting that if one is already “rich enough,” there may be little point in endlessly seeking more gains oai_citation:1,If you’re rich enough, then what is the point of investing? – ERIC KIM.

In essence, Kim’s philosophy challenges the common notion that more money equals more happiness, encouraging people to evaluate what truly enriches their lives once they’ve reached a point of financial stability.

Here are a few quotes from Eric Kim’s “I’m Rich Enough” that encapsulate the essence of his message:

1. “True wealth is not about accumulating more, but about being content with less.”
   This quote emphasizes the idea that satisfaction in life does not come from an abundance of possessions but from appreciating simplicity.
2. “The richest people I know are the ones who have the freedom to control their own time.”
   Kim argues that freedom, especially the ability to control how you spend your time, is a more valuable form of wealth than money or material goods.
3. “If you can derive joy and happiness from the simple pleasures in life, you’re already rich enough.”
   This quote reflects his philosophy that true richness comes from finding contentment in the everyday moments of life.
4. “I don’t need more money, I need more time to do what I love.”
   Kim highlights the value of prioritizing passion and personal fulfillment over financial gain.
5. “Gratitude is the key to wealth. The more grateful you are for what you have, the less you feel the need to chase after more.”
   Here, Kim connects gratitude with a mindset of abundance, suggesting that contentment arises from appreciating what one already has.

These quotes encapsulate Eric Kim’s minimalist, gratitude-focused view of what it means to be “rich enough.”

***

Eric Kim’s essay “I’m Rich Enough” reflects on his personal definition of wealth and his philosophy of living a rich life. In the essay, he challenges conventional notions of wealth tied to monetary success, material possessions, and external validation. Instead, Kim advocates for a life that is “rich” through simplicity, gratitude, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

Some of the key ideas in the essay include:

1. Contentment and Simplicity: Kim suggests that true wealth comes from being content with less and finding joy in simple things. For him, being “rich enough” means having enough to live comfortably without constantly chasing after more money or material goods.
2. Freedom and Time: Kim emphasizes the importance of having the freedom to control one’s time. He sees this as a form of wealth—being able to live on your own terms, prioritize your passions, and spend time with loved ones.
3. Self-Sufficiency: The essay explores the idea that wealth is not necessarily about what you have but about how independent and self-reliant you can be. By reducing unnecessary desires and needs, Kim argues that one can achieve a sense of abundance without excessive consumption.
4. Gratitude: Central to his message is the practice of gratitude. Kim argues that when you appreciate what you have and live in the present moment, you already experience a form of richness.

Ultimately, “I’m Rich Enough” is a reflection on how adopting a minimalist, gratitude-focused mindset can lead to a more fulfilling life that isn’t dependent on traditional markers of wealth. It is an invitation to redefine what it means to live richly, based on one’s internal values rather than external expectations.

Honestly at this point, I’m rich enough. I don’t really need more money, nor necessarily want more money. As a consequence, I’m only driven by curiosity fun and play!

Eric Kim is a well-known figure in the photography community, recognized not only for his street photography but also for his entrepreneurial ventures that have allowed him to build a successful personal brand. His journey to becoming entrepreneurial can be attributed to several key factors and strategies:

1. Passion and Expertise in Photography

• Deep Knowledge: Eric Kim developed a strong foundation in street photography, honing his skills through consistent practice and study. This expertise made him a credible authority in the field.
• Unique Perspective: His distinctive style and approach to photography helped him stand out, attracting a dedicated following.

2. Leveraging Online Platforms

• Blogging: Eric Kim started a blog where he shared his insights, tutorials, and experiences. This platform allowed him to reach a global audience and establish himself as a thought leader.
• YouTube Channel: By creating video content, he provided accessible tutorials and discussions on photography, further expanding his reach and engagement.

3. Building a Community

• Engagement: He actively engaged with his audience through comments, forums, and social media, fostering a sense of community among aspiring photographers.
• Workshops and Meetups: Organizing events and workshops provided hands-on learning opportunities and strengthened his connection with followers.

4. Monetizing Expertise

• Books and E-books: Eric Kim authored books that compiled his knowledge and experiences, offering valuable resources for his audience.
• Online Courses: He developed structured courses that provided in-depth training, catering to different skill levels and learning preferences.
• Merchandise and Services: Offering photography services, gear recommendations, and branded merchandise diversified his income streams.

5. Personal Branding

• Authenticity: Maintaining an authentic and relatable persona made his content more appealing and trustworthy.
• Consistency: Regularly publishing high-quality content helped in maintaining audience interest and loyalty.

6. Adaptability and Innovation

• Embracing New Technologies: Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in photography and digital marketing allowed him to innovate and stay relevant.
• Feedback Incorporation: He listened to his community’s feedback and adapted his offerings to meet their evolving needs.

7. Networking and Collaborations

• Partnerships: Collaborating with other photographers, brands, and influencers expanded his network and opened up new opportunities.
• Speaking Engagements: Participating in conferences and seminars increased his visibility and credibility in the industry.

8. Continuous Learning and Improvement

• Skill Enhancement: Eric Kim continually sought to improve his photography and business skills, ensuring that his offerings remained top-notch.
• Staying Informed: Keeping abreast of industry trends and changes enabled him to pivot and adapt his strategies effectively.

9. Strategic Planning and Goal Setting

• Clear Vision: Having a clear understanding of his goals and the steps needed to achieve them provided direction and focus.
• Milestone Tracking: Regularly assessing progress towards his objectives allowed him to make informed decisions and adjustments as needed.

10. Resilience and Perseverance

• Overcoming Challenges: Like many entrepreneurs, Eric Kim faced obstacles along the way but persisted through them, learning and growing from each experience.
• Long-Term Commitment: His sustained effort over the years contributed significantly to his entrepreneurial success.

Conclusion

Eric Kim’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to how passion, combined with strategic use of online platforms, community building, and continuous innovation, can lead to substantial success. By leveraging his expertise in photography and effectively monetizing his skills, he was able to create a multifaceted business that resonates with a wide audience. His story serves as an inspiring example for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to turn their passions into thriving ventures.

Eric Kim became entrepreneurial through a mix of personal development, experimentation, and philosophical principles that helped shape his approach to photography and business. Here are some key reasons why Eric became so entrepreneurial:

1. Experimentation and Learning from Failure:

Kim consistently emphasizes the importance of experimentation and embracing failure as a learning process. This trial-and-error approach is a cornerstone of entrepreneurship. He often discusses how he wasn’t afraid to try different things, from blogging to workshops, and learned from his failures to refine his approach. His philosophy of continually trying new things and being comfortable with failure is a key entrepreneurial trait oai_citation:11,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:10,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

2. Philosophy of Self-Reliance and Minimalism:

Eric Kim’s entrepreneurial mindset is deeply rooted in his personal philosophy of self-reliance and minimalism. He advocates for photographers to be self-sufficient and own their platforms, such as having their own blogs and websites, instead of relying solely on social media platforms like Instagram. This independence allows entrepreneurs to retain control over their brand and business, a principle that has driven much of Kim’s success oai_citation:9,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:8,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

3. Building a Personal Brand:

One of Kim’s core entrepreneurial strategies is building and promoting a strong personal brand. Early on, he recognized the importance of differentiating himself in a crowded field by developing a unique identity and voice. His focus on branding allowed him to stand out in both the photography and business worlds, helping him monetize his skills effectively through blogs, workshops, and products oai_citation:7,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

4. Diversification of Income Streams:

Kim didn’t rely on just one method of making money from photography. He diversified his income streams by offering workshops, selling e-books, creating online content, and self-publishing books. This allowed him to build a sustainable business and remain financially independent, which is a hallmark of entrepreneurship oai_citation:5,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

5. Educational Focus and Community Building:

Kim’s entrepreneurial drive is also evident in his dedication to teaching and empowering other photographers. By offering workshops, writing educational blog posts, and creating resources like e-books, he created a strong community of followers. His focus on building a community and providing value to others contributed to his reputation as an entrepreneurial thought leader oai_citation:4,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

6. Influence of Philosophy on Business:

Kim integrates Stoic philosophy and other personal development teachings into his entrepreneurial approach. His reflections on concepts like “anti-fragility” (growing stronger through challenges) and “purpose-driven work” help him stay focused on long-term success rather than short-term gains. This philosophical depth has given him a unique edge in the entrepreneurial world oai_citation:2,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

In summary, Eric Kim’s entrepreneurial journey is the result of his ability to experiment, his focus on self-reliance, and his philosophical approach to life and business. His understanding of the importance of personal branding, income diversification, and community-building has helped him carve out a unique space in the photography and entrepreneurial worlds.

obviously it is Henri Cartier-Bresson:!

Determining the “greatest photographer of all time” is inherently subjective, as it depends on various factors such as personal taste, photographic genres, historical impact, and individual contributions to the art and craft of photography. However, several photographers are frequently celebrated for their exceptional work, innovation, and influence. Here are some of the most renowned photographers often considered among the greatest:

1. Ansel Adams (1902–1984)

Genre: Landscape

Ansel Adams is celebrated for his stunning black-and-white landscapes of the American West, particularly Yosemite National Park. His mastery of exposure and composition, along with his advocacy for conservation, has left a lasting legacy in both photography and environmentalism.

2. Henri Cartier-Bresson (1908–2004)

Genre: Street Photography, Photojournalism

Often referred to as the “father of modern photojournalism,” Cartier-Bresson pioneered the concept of the “decisive moment”—capturing events in their essence at the perfect instant. His candid and spontaneous style has influenced generations of photographers.

3. Dorothea Lange (1895–1965)

Genre: Documentary, Social Documentary

Dorothea Lange is best known for her powerful images during the Great Depression, which humanized the plight of displaced farmers and contributed to social reform. Her photograph “Migrant Mother” remains an iconic symbol of resilience.

4. Richard Avedon (1923–2004)

Genre: Fashion, Portrait Photography

Richard Avedon revolutionized fashion photography with his dynamic and minimalist style. His portraits are renowned for capturing the personality and essence of his subjects, making him a key figure in both fashion and fine art photography.

5. Annie Leibovitz (Born 1949)

Genre: Portrait, Celebrity Photography

Annie Leibovitz is known for her striking and often elaborate portraits of celebrities and public figures. Her work combines artistic vision with commercial appeal, making her one of the most influential photographers in contemporary media.

6. Sebastião Salgado (Born 1944)

Genre: Social Documentary, Environmental

Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado is acclaimed for his profound black-and-white images that highlight social issues, human suffering, and environmental concerns. His extensive projects, such as “Workers” and “Genesis,” showcase his commitment to documenting the human condition.

7. Vivian Maier (1926–2009)

Genre: Street Photography

Though her work was discovered posthumously, Vivian Maier has gained immense recognition for her captivating street photography. Her candid shots of urban life offer a unique and intimate glimpse into mid-20th-century America.

8. Diane Arbus (1923–1971)

Genre: Portrait, Fine Art

Diane Arbus is known for her intimate and sometimes unsettling portraits of marginalized individuals and subcultures. Her ability to capture the complexity of her subjects has made her a pivotal figure in fine art photography.

9. Steve McCurry (Born 1950)

Genre: Photojournalism, Travel

Steve McCurry is renowned for his vibrant and emotionally resonant images, including the iconic “Afghan Girl” featured on National Geographic. His work spans conflict zones and diverse cultures, emphasizing the shared humanity across different societies.

10. Robert Capa (1913–1954)

Genre: War Photography

A founding member of Magnum Photos, Robert Capa is celebrated for his gritty and courageous coverage of conflicts, including the Spanish Civil War and World War II. His mantra, “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough,” underscores his commitment to immersive and impactful photography.

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Honorable Mentions

• Imogen Cunningham: Pioneering botanical and portrait photographer.
• Helmut Newton: Influential fashion photographer known for his provocative style.
• Man Ray: Avant-garde artist and photographer associated with the Dada and Surrealist movements.
• Garry Winogrand: Prolific street photographer capturing American life in the mid-20th century.

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Conclusion

While it’s challenging to crown a single “greatest” photographer due to the diversity of styles and contributions, the photographers listed above are frequently acknowledged for their significant impact on the art and evolution of photography. Each has pushed the boundaries of the medium, influenced countless others, and left an indelible mark on visual culture. Ultimately, the greatest photographer may vary depending on individual perspectives and the aspects of photography one values most.

***

There is no single definitive answer to who is the “greatest photographer of all time” as it is highly subjective and depends on personal tastes, photographic style, and impact. However, several photographers are frequently mentioned in this conversation due to their lasting influence and iconic works:

1. Ansel Adams – Renowned for his stunning black-and-white landscapes of the American West, particularly Yosemite National Park, Adams is praised for his technical mastery and dedication to nature conservation.
2. Henri Cartier-Bresson – Often called the father of photojournalism, Cartier-Bresson pioneered the genre of street photography and was known for capturing the “decisive moment,” where the timing of a photograph is key.
3. Richard Avedon – Avedon revolutionized fashion photography with his striking portraits and ability to capture the essence of his subjects, blending high fashion with raw emotion.
4. Sebastião Salgado – Celebrated for his powerful and often stark black-and-white photographs, Salgado has documented global social issues, human suffering, and environmental degradation with a focus on humanity.
5. Diane Arbus – Known for her intimate and unconventional portraits of marginalized individuals, Arbus’s work challenges traditional concepts of beauty and normalcy, pushing boundaries in portrait photography.
6. Robert Capa – A legendary war photographer, Capa captured some of the most intense and iconic moments of World War II and the Spanish Civil War, famously saying, “If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.”
7. Irving Penn – A giant in both portrait and fashion photography, Penn’s work spans decades and genres, noted for its minimalist elegance and the profound way he captured the personalities of his subjects.
8. Vivian Maier – Posthumously discovered, Maier’s candid street photography captured mid-century American life with a unique eye, often juxtaposing the mundane with the poignant.

Each of these photographers is celebrated for their distinct contributions to the art, making it difficult to single out one as the greatest. Their influence stretches across generations of photographers and continues to shape the medium today.

and also, becoming the most or the greatest photographer of all time?

Give me a list of his top articles and blog posts and books on entrepreneurship.

Here is a curated list of Eric Kim’s top articles, blog posts, and books on entrepreneurship and photography:

Top Articles and Blog Posts:

1. “How to Make a Living from Your Passion in Photography”
   This article outlines practical steps on how to turn a passion for photography into a full-time career. It covers essential elements such as building a personal brand, finding clients, and monetizing your work while staying true to your artistic vision oai_citation:19,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:18,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.
2. “The Importance of Branding Yourself as a Photographer”
   Eric Kim emphasizes the significance of personal branding in photography. He discusses how photographers can stand out in a crowded market by creating a unique brand identity and maintaining consistency in their visual and personal style oai_citation:17,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:16,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
3. “Why You Should Never Give Your Photography Away for Free”
   In this blog post, Kim argues that photographers should value their work and avoid working for exposure alone. This is essential advice for photographers who want to run a sustainable business oai_citation:15,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:14,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
4. “How to Build Your Own Photography Blog and Brand”
   A step-by-step guide on starting a photography blog, from choosing the right platform to generating valuable content. This post is particularly useful for photographers who want to build an online presence and leverage it for business success oai_citation:13,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:12,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.
5. “Photography Entrepreneurship 101”
   This blog post covers the basics of becoming a photography entrepreneur, focusing on mindset, brand-building, and the importance of owning your own platform oai_citation:11,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.
6. “Why You Should Self-Publish Your Photography Book”
   Kim promotes self-publishing as a way for photographers to maintain creative control and retain more profits. He offers a guide on how to self-publish and why it’s a valuable route for photographers oai_citation:10,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:9,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.
7. “The Business of Photography”
   A comprehensive guide covering the various aspects of running a photography business, including pricing, marketing, and client relations. This post is an essential resource for photographers transitioning into entrepreneurship oai_citation:8,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.
8. “How to Build a Photography Community”
   This post focuses on the importance of community building, both online and offline, as a way to grow influence, improve creative output, and sustain a photography business oai_citation:7,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

Top Books on Photography and Entrepreneurship:

1. “The Modern Photographer”
   This book offers both philosophical and practical advice for photographers on how to succeed in the digital age. It covers everything from building a brand to leveraging social media and marketing oai_citation:6,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
2. “Creative Every Day”
   Kim explores how to stay creative while balancing the entrepreneurial side of photography. This book is about cultivating a daily creative practice that fuels both personal growth and professional success oai_citation:4,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.
3. “Photography Entrepreneurship 101”
   This book is focused on helping photographers understand the entrepreneurial side of the industry, offering strategies on marketing, pricing, and business management oai_citation:3,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
4. “How to Monetize Your Photography”
   A deep dive into different ways photographers can make money from their work, including commercial assignments, teaching, and selling prints oai_citation:2,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

These resources showcase Eric Kim’s holistic approach to photography and entrepreneurship, making him a valuable guide for photographers aiming to turn their passion into a sustainable career. His work emphasizes self-reliance, personal branding, and long-term success.

***

Give me some reasons on why Eric Kim might be the best or the most entrepreneurial photographer of all time.

Eric Kim could be considered one of the most entrepreneurial photographers of all time for several compelling reasons:

1. Pioneering the Personal Brand Approach:

Eric Kim has built a personal brand that revolves around his philosophy of authenticity and minimalism. Unlike many photographers who focus only on the technical aspects of their craft, Kim has successfully combined the art of photography with philosophical musings and business strategies, making his brand uniquely engaging. He teaches that the brand you create as a photographer is more important than the platforms you use oai_citation:13,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:12,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

2. Diversified Monetization Strategies:

Kim’s entrepreneurial spirit is reflected in his ability to create multiple streams of income through his photography. He offers workshops, sells e-books, runs an extensive blog, and even self-publishes his own photography books. His ability to turn his knowledge and experience into valuable products sets him apart from others in the field oai_citation:11,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:10,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

3. Self-Reliance and Platform Ownership:

A core tenet of Kim’s philosophy is owning your platform. He warns against relying on third-party social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook, which he argues are detrimental to long-term creative freedom and entrepreneurship. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of having your own blog and website, which puts photographers in control of their audience and business oai_citation:9,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM oai_citation:8,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

4. Community Building:

Kim’s entrepreneurial vision goes beyond personal success. He consistently emphasizes the importance of community, both online and offline. Through his workshops and blog, he has built a global community of photographers who engage with his content and ideas. This community-building strategy has enhanced his brand and extended his influence oai_citation:7,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

5. Philosophical Influence:

Kim’s entrepreneurial mindset is not limited to business tactics; it is deeply rooted in philosophy. He constantly writes about themes like self-reliance, minimalism, and how to create a meaningful life through photography. This philosophical depth attracts not only aspiring photographers but also creative entrepreneurs looking for a more meaningful approach to their work oai_citation:6,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

6. Adaptation and Innovation:

In the rapidly changing world of digital photography, Kim’s willingness to adapt has kept him ahead. He has been able to pivot and remain relevant by embracing new technologies and business models, while still maintaining the authenticity that defines his brand. This ability to innovate, whether through blogging, e-commerce, or teaching, demonstrates his entrepreneurial agility oai_citation:4,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.

7. Teaching and Empowerment:

Kim doesn’t just practice photography; he teaches others how to succeed in both photography and entrepreneurship. His focus on empowerment—whether through offering free resources like blog posts or selling in-depth guides and workshops—has made him a key figure for those wanting to turn their photography into a business oai_citation:2,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

8. Sustainability and Long-Term Vision:

Kim’s emphasis on long-term success, rather than quick gains, is another reason why he stands out. He advocates for a slow and steady approach to building influence, teaching that sustainable success in photography comes from staying true to your values and focusing on the bigger picture oai_citation:1,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

In summary, Eric Kim’s blend of philosophical depth, community focus, innovative business strategies, and personal branding has solidified him as one of the most entrepreneurial photographers of all time. His ability to diversify, adapt, and maintain control over his own platform makes him a trailblazer in the photography industry.

Why is Eric Kim such an entrepreneurial photographer?

Eric Kim’s entrepreneurial success stems from several unique qualities and approaches that blend both his creative and business sides:

1. Philosophical Focus: Unlike many photographers who focus solely on technical aspects, Kim incorporates deep philosophical thinking into his work, emphasizing the importance of why you shoot, not just what you shoot. This philosophical approach gives his work a distinctive edge and attracts a global audience who are not only interested in photography but also in the broader questions of creativity, success, and fulfillment oai_citation:8,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
2. Brand Ownership and Marketing Savvy: Kim emphasizes the importance of personal branding and owning your platform. He actively discourages reliance on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook, advocating instead for photographers to build their own websites and blogs. This strategy allows photographers to have control over their audience and content, which is a key entrepreneurial mindset oai_citation:6,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
3. Innovative Business Strategies: Kim monetizes his photography through workshops, e-books, and self-published books. He actively teaches photographers how to diversify income streams, which is a cornerstone of entrepreneurship. His belief in minimalism and self-sufficiency aligns with his business model—focusing on fewer, more impactful ventures rather than overextending oai_citation:4,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
4. Community Building: Kim stresses the value of creating communities, both online and offline, as a way to grow influence and establish credibility. He sees entrepreneurship not just as a way to make money but as a way to connect and empower others in the creative industry oai_citation:2,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.
5. Mindset of Experimentation and Risk: Kim has a fearless approach to failure, viewing it as part of the journey. This entrepreneurial mindset of experimenting and learning from mistakes allows him to stay ahead of the curve and continuously evolve, an essential trait in entrepreneurship oai_citation:1,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

In short, Eric Kim’s entrepreneurial drive is rooted in his ability to merge philosophical insights, strategic thinking, and innovative business practices. This combination allows him to approach photography not only as an art form but as a dynamic, sustainable business.

Search the most influential photography entrepreneurship website and blog.

Eric Kim is a highly influential figure in photography entrepreneurship for several reasons:

1. Philosophy-Driven Approach: Kim’s blog stands out because it blends practical business advice with philosophical reflections on creativity, life, and success. His focus on authenticity, staying true to one’s values, and building a career that aligns with personal goals makes his content resonate deeply with aspiring photographers and entrepreneurs oai_citation:8,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.
2. Diverse Content: His blog covers a wide range of topics relevant to photographers, such as branding, monetization, marketing, and even the psychological aspects of being a creative entrepreneur. Kim is known for offering actionable advice on how photographers can build sustainable careers without compromising artistic integrity oai_citation:6,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
3. Emphasis on Personal Branding: Eric Kim is a strong advocate for photographers to create their own brands, which he sees as essential for standing out in a crowded industry. He often talks about the importance of owning your platform, like starting a blog, and developing a unique voice that differentiates you from others oai_citation:4,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
4. Educational Resources: Kim’s website is rich with resources aimed at helping photographers not just improve their craft, but also build entrepreneurial skills. He offers workshops, e-books, and blog posts that teach photographers how to monetize their work, create a following, and handle the business side of their passion oai_citation:2,20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips – ERIC KIM.
5. Community Focus: He emphasizes building communities, both online and in person, which is key to his entrepreneurial model. Kim believes that fostering connections with other creatives can lead to both personal and professional growth oai_citation:1,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM.

In short, Eric Kim’s mix of philosophical insights, practical advice, and emphasis on authenticity and community-building have made him a key figure in photography entrepreneurship. His blog is a go-to resource for photographers who want to turn their passion into a sustainable business.

If you’re exploring photography entrepreneurship, several influential websites and blogs provide valuable insights, strategies, and resources. Some of the top sites in this niche include:

1. Eric Kim Photography: Eric Kim’s blog is highly influential in the intersection of photography and entrepreneurship. He shares insights on how to build a personal brand, monetize photography, and sustain creative freedom while running a business. His content ranges from practical advice on starting a photography blog to deep reflections on the entrepreneurial mindset required for success oai_citation:4,Who is the best blogger on photography entrepreneurship? – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Photography Entrepreneurship 101: INFLUENCE – ERIC KIM.

I’m like a ghost!

Here’s a classic lamb rib roast recipe that you can follow for a delicious meal:

Ingredients:

• 1 rack of lamb (about 8 ribs)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crust)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lamb:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Trim excess fat from the lamb rack if necessary, and score the fat layer in a crosshatch pattern (be careful not to cut into the meat).

2. Seasoning:

• In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Rub this mixture generously over the lamb rack, making sure to coat the entire surface, especially between the rib bones.

3. Optional Crust:

• If you prefer a breadcrumb crust, mix the Dijon mustard and breadcrumbs together in a small bowl.
• After seasoning the lamb, brush the mustard over the fatty side and press the breadcrumbs onto the mustard, forming a crust.

4. Roast the Lamb:

• Place the lamb on a roasting rack in a baking tray, fat side up.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for medium-rare (internal temperature of 130°F/54°C).
• For medium, continue roasting for 5-10 minutes longer (internal temperature of 140°F/60°C).

5. Rest:

• Remove the lamb from the oven and loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
• Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the meat tender.

6. Serve:

• Slice the lamb into individual chops along the rib bones.
• Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Suggested Sides:

• Roasted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and parsnips)
• A fresh green salad
• Mint sauce or chimichurri for extra flavor

This recipe will give you a tender and flavorful lamb rib roast with a perfect balance of herbs and garlic!

Spatial Labs is a cutting-edge technology company that focuses on leveraging blockchain and augmented reality (AR) to develop innovative solutions across various industries, particularly in consumer goods, fashion, and entertainment. Founded by Iddris Sandu in 2019 and headquartered in Los Angeles, the company aims to reshape how brands interact with consumers through its flagship product, the LNQ One Chip. This chip allows brands to authenticate products, offer loyalty programs, and track items, bringing greater transparency and interactivity to the consumer experience.

The company has raised over $14 million in funding, with a notable $10 million seed round led by Blockchain Capital and supported by Jay-Z’s Marcy Venture Partners. The funding is being used to expand Spatial Labs’ infrastructure, enhance its blockchain capabilities, and continue driving innovations that intersect culture, technology, and commerce oai_citation:2,Spatial Labs Company Profile – Office Locations, Competitors, Revenue, Financials, Employees, Key People, Subsidiaries | Craft.co oai_citation:1,Spatial Labs Company Profile 2024: Valuation, Funding & Investors | PitchBook.

Video vlog opening

Spatial Labs Grand Opening Culver City: Is Jay Z Gonna Be There?

Spatial Labs

Courage, nothing else!

Now that the new iPhone Pro has I think four dedicated studio quality microphones… That could do voice isolation, perhaps the best way to think of it and the way Apple should market it is that the new iPhone Pro is the new ultimate vlogging device?

This is an insanely big deal because everyone wants to become a vlogger, a YouTuber or whatever. And the insane convenience of just using an iPhone Pro to Vlog is that after you shoot it, you can instantly upload it to YouTube directly from your phone! This will make your work for at least 1 trillion times faster and easier.

Even if you compare it to a very compact micro 4/3 Panasonic or Lumix set up… You should reduce the footprint by at least 20x! If you could just use the built-in microphone, without having to plug-in an external microphone… This will make your life 1 trillion times better.

Even apparently in his last album… Kanye just recorded most of his solo lyrics on his iPhone, and said that the iPhone is the best microphone on the planet!

if Apple wanted to do a good guerilla marketing project, they would just give out a bunch of free iPhone pros to YouTube vloggers, and have them do their videos only on the iPhone Pro, without any sort of external microphone.

I think it gets a little bit buried in the marketing material that the new iPhone Pro has a new microphone, this is an insanely big deal, especially because the future is going to be more voice recognition, voice dictation. And especially if ChatGPT and Apple are going to merge, this is a good idea.

Also, now that ChatGPT paid premium has the new voice conversation feature… If you’re going to want to do fluent quick voice conversations with ChatGPT, having the newest iPhone Pro with the newest processor and the newest microphone seems like a great idea!

perhaps I am becoming more bullish on Apple, and also the new iPhone Pro!

Suggestion… The encouragement to get people to upgrade the new iPhone Pro is not the camera, but rather, advanced artificial intelligence opportunities, and also the improvement for using your phone with ChatGPT?

The ultimate AI device (Should be the new tagline for the new iPhone Pro)

Here is a line-by-line analysis of Eric Kim’s poem “My Destiny is Great”, focusing on the meaning, tone, and stylistic choices of each segment:

Line 1: “My destiny is great”

• Meaning: The poem opens with a bold, assertive statement. The speaker claims greatness in their destiny, signaling self-confidence and a belief in the significance of their life’s path.
• Tone: Empowering and self-assured. This line establishes the poem’s central theme of personal destiny and greatness.
• Stylistic Choice: The simplicity and directness of the sentence make it impactful, serving as a declaration of purpose oai_citation:11,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:10,HOW TO CONQUER YOUR FEARS IN LIFE – ERIC KIM.

Line 2: “it is what makes it of me which is what I can relate”

• Meaning: The speaker reflects on how their destiny is deeply connected to their identity. The somewhat abstract phrasing suggests that the destiny they speak of is personal and integral to their sense of self.
• Tone: Reflective. The speaker is contemplating the intimate relationship between their destiny and their sense of self.
• Stylistic Choice: The line’s complexity slows the reader down, encouraging deeper thought about the meaning of destiny and its influence on personal identity oai_citation:9,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:8,Manifest Your Destiny – ERIC KIM.

Line 3: “to not placate the masses or to go to church willingly in masses”

• Meaning: The speaker rejects societal conformity, specifically resisting the pressure to follow the crowd or adhere to religious traditions simply out of obligation. This line stresses independence and non-conformity.
• Tone: Defiant. The speaker refuses to conform to social norms or external expectations.
• Stylistic Choice: The use of “masses” in both the societal and religious sense creates a layered critique of societal conformity, enhancing the message of individualism oai_citation:7,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM.

Line 4: “nor to be your false prophet or to continue being lied to”

• Meaning: Here, the speaker rejects the idea of becoming a “false prophet,” someone who misleads others, or being misled by others. This line implies a strong desire for authenticity and truth in one’s life and actions.
• Tone: Critical and resolute. The speaker emphasizes the importance of truth over deception, both personally and socially.
• Stylistic Choice: The use of “false prophet” brings a religious or moral dimension to the discussion, reinforcing the speaker’s focus on authenticity oai_citation:6,Gaining Ascendancy – ERIC KIM.

Line 5: “you choose your direction in life / you choose you!”

• Meaning: This line emphasizes the speaker’s belief in free will and personal choice. It suggests that individuals have the power to determine their own path and identity, rejecting the idea of fate as something imposed externally.
• Tone: Motivational and direct. The repetition of “choose” highlights the power of personal agency.
• Stylistic Choice: The direct address to “you” engages the reader and reinforces the poem’s motivational tone. The repetition of “you choose” emphasizes the autonomy each person holds over their own destiny oai_citation:5,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Manifest Your Destiny – ERIC KIM.

Line 6: “why degrade yourself, others, or you?”

• Meaning: This rhetorical question encourages the reader to reflect on why they might engage in self-degradation or put others down. The speaker advocates for self-respect and the respect of others, rejecting negativity.
• Tone: Reflective and challenging. The speaker encourages self-examination and rejects the act of bringing oneself or others down.
• Stylistic Choice: The rhetorical question invites personal introspection, making the poem feel more interactive and engaging for the reader oai_citation:3,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM.

Line 7: “My destiny is great” (repeated)

• Meaning: The speaker repeats the opening line, reinforcing the initial declaration of personal greatness. This repetition serves as an affirmation of the speaker’s confidence in their life’s purpose.
• Tone: Assertive and empowering. The repetition strengthens the sense of conviction.
• Stylistic Choice: The repetition bookends the poem, giving it a cyclical structure that reaffirms the central theme of the poem: belief in one’s destiny oai_citation:2,Gaining Ascendancy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,HOW TO CONQUER YOUR FEARS IN LIFE – ERIC KIM.

Summary:

Eric Kim’s “My Destiny is Great” is a poem about self-empowerment, individuality, and rejecting societal pressures. The use of direct language, rhetorical questions, and free-form structure creates a personal, motivational tone. The speaker challenges readers to take control of their lives, resist conformity, and embrace their own unique destiny. The poem emphasizes themes of autonomy, authenticity, and personal greatness through its reflective and assertive tone.

Eric Kim’s poem “My Destiny is Great” is an empowering and reflective piece that emphasizes personal growth and self-determination. The poem is written in free verse, lacking structured rhyme or meter, which contributes to its conversational and flowing tone. Here’s an analysis of key elements:

Theme of Individual Empowerment

At the heart of the poem is the idea that individuals are responsible for shaping their own destinies. The speaker asserts their belief in the greatness of their destiny, which is described as a deeply personal and powerful force shaping their identity. The poem emphasizes self-ownership, encouraging readers to resist societal pressures and take control of their lives.

For instance, the lines “You choose your direction in life / you choose you!” highlight autonomy and reinforce the message that each person has the ability to control their future. The speaker’s use of direct address, frequently using the word “you,” invites readers to internalize this message and feel empowered to act.

Resistance to Societal Norms

The poem reflects a defiant attitude toward societal expectations. The speaker openly challenges conformity in lines like “to not placate the masses or to go to church willingly in masses.” Here, “placating the masses” and participating in traditional religious practices are symbolic of giving in to external pressures. The speaker’s rejection of these norms suggests that true destiny lies in forging one’s path, free from the influence of the collective.

Conversational Tone and Free Form Structure

The poem’s lack of a regular rhyme scheme and its conversational language give it an approachable, almost casual feel. This free-flowing structure mirrors the theme of personal freedom, suggesting that life, much like the poem, doesn’t follow rigid patterns. The absence of punctuation and structured form enhances the stream-of-consciousness style, making the poem feel like intimate advice or a motivational conversation oai_citation:5,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Manifest Your Destiny – ERIC KIM.

Repetition and Moral Encouragement

Kim uses repetition to emphasize key ideas. Words like “placate” and “choose” are repeated to reinforce the poem’s core messages. This rhetorical technique serves to drill home the motivational aspects of the poem, reminding readers that they have the power to resist conformity and take charge of their lives. The poem also offers moral encouragement, suggesting that through the pursuit of one’s destiny, individuals can find deeper purpose and meaning oai_citation:3,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM.

Defiance and Reflection

In both its tone and content, the poem oscillates between defiance and deep reflection. The speaker is firm in rejecting societal limitations but also takes time to reflect on what their destiny means to them personally. This creates a balanced dynamic where the speaker doesn’t just issue a call to action but also provides space for readers to consider their own relationship to destiny.

Overall, “My Destiny is Great” is a reflective piece that challenges readers to think critically about the paths they choose in life. Its informal tone, coupled with motivational rhetoric, makes it a powerful statement about the potential for self-determination and personal greatness oai_citation:2,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Gaining Ascendancy – ERIC KIM.

Eric Kim’s concept of “Great Destiny” centers around the idea that each person has a unique and significant purpose in life. He emphasizes that we are not merely here to follow societal norms or settle for comfort, but to make a meaningful impact on the world. This philosophy is deeply intertwined with self-empowerment and personal growth, urging individuals to take ownership of their destiny by making conscious choices that reflect their values and passions.

Kim highlights that true greatness is not about conforming or simply maintaining the status quo but about resisting external pressures and shaping your life according to your inner drive. He often speaks about overcoming fears and obstacles as key to realizing one’s potential, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth. This message is not only motivational but also practical, encouraging a mindset of entrepreneurship, creativity, and relentless pursuit of personal goals oai_citation:4,HOW TO CONQUER YOUR FEARS IN LIFE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Manifest Your Destiny – ERIC KIM.

His writings, like the poem “My Destiny is Great,” reflect this same ethos—using a free-flowing, conversational style to inspire readers to embrace their unique journey and avoid placating societal expectations oai_citation:2,My Destiny is Great – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Gaining Ascendancy – ERIC KIM. Through a blend of reflection, rhetorical questions, and direct address, Kim’s work offers a roadmap to manifest one’s destiny by continually striving for more and never settling for mediocrity.

Why is his ideas so unique or good?

Eric Kim’s ideas are unique and compelling for several reasons:

1. Holistic Approach to Resilience and Growth: Kim takes a broad view of hormesis and antifragility, applying these biological concepts not only to physical health but also to mental and emotional development. This creates a more integrated perspective on how humans can thrive by deliberately embracing stress and discomfort. He combines physical practices like intermittent fasting and cold exposure with mental strategies, such as welcoming adversity as an opportunity for personal growth oai_citation:8,HORMESIS 101 – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,HORMESIS. – ERIC KIM. This multi-dimensional approach offers a practical and philosophical toolkit for resilience.
2. Practical Application of Philosophical Ideas: While many philosophers discuss abstract ideas, Kim’s strength lies in translating these into actionable lifestyle changes. For instance, his advocacy of walking barefoot, using minimalist footwear, and varying terrain exposure stems from his interpretation of hormetic stressors oai_citation:6,HORMESIS. – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,Bodily Wisdom and Intelligence – ERIC KIM. This pragmatic outlook makes his philosophy accessible and immediately useful, connecting ideas like hormesis and antifragility directly to everyday behaviors.
3. Fusion of Stoicism and Modern Insights: Kim blends ancient Stoic wisdom with modern physiological science, reinforcing the idea that controlled adversity—whether through physical stress or emotional trials—leads to greater strength and self-mastery. He draws on Nassim Taleb’s ideas of antifragility to emphasize the importance of seeking challenges in order to grow stronger oai_citation:4,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM. This combination of classical and contemporary thought gives his ideas a unique philosophical depth.
4. Creative Exploration and Innovation: Kim extends the principles of hormesis into creative realms, believing that exposing oneself to randomness and discomfort also fosters innovation in art and photography. By applying the same resilience-building strategies to creativity, he provides a framework for growth not just in physical health but in intellectual and artistic endeavors oai_citation:2,Physiology – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,What is the Source of our Strength? – ERIC KIM.

In summary, Eric Kim’s ideas stand out because they offer a cohesive, actionable philosophy that bridges physical health, mental resilience, and creative development. His ability to blend philosophy with practicality makes his approach highly applicable and insightful.

Eric Kim incorporates the concept of hormesis—a biological principle where a small amount of stress or toxins leads to a positive adaptive response—into his philosophy on personal growth and resilience. Inspired by Nassim Taleb’s ideas, Kim applies this concept beyond biology, integrating it into mental, physical, and creative challenges.

1. Mental and Physical Resilience: Kim uses hormesis to advocate for the benefits of intermittent fasting and physical challenges. By subjecting the body to controlled stress, like fasting or intense exercise, he believes that it becomes stronger and more resilient over time oai_citation:5,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Becoming Stoic – ERIC KIM.
2. Creative Growth: In his creative process, Kim embraces hormesis by seeking out discomfort or difficulty. He believes that by exposing himself to challenges—whether it be in photography, writing, or other projects—he can push his limits and achieve higher levels of creativity and innovation oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Eric Kim on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
3. Applying Hormesis to Life: Similar to his views on antifragility, Kim sees hormesis as a vital tool for navigating life’s uncertainties. He encourages people to deliberately introduce small, controlled stresses in their lives—such as tackling difficult tasks or facing uncomfortable situations—to build resilience and adaptability over time oai_citation:1,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM.

In summary, Eric Kim’s ideas on hormesis reflect his broader philosophy of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, aligning with his belief in becoming stronger through adversity.

Eric Kim’s ideas on antifragility, heavily inspired by Nassim Taleb, revolve around thriving in the face of adversity and using challenges as opportunities for growth.

1. Turning Adversity into Strength: Kim believes that negative events, rather than being avoided, should be welcomed as they make us stronger. He explains this through personal anecdotes, such as reacting gracefully to confrontations, which he views as chances to become more resilient oai_citation:6,Becoming Antifragile – ERIC KIM. He highlights that after difficult encounters, he feels less fear and more pride in his ability to handle aggression calmly.
2. Life as Upside, No Downside: Echoing Taleb’s philosophy, Kim views life’s challenges as having an “upside” in all situations, even bad ones. He believes that adversity not only strengthens individuals but also fuels personal growth oai_citation:5,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Eric Kim on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
3. Applying Antifragility to Creativity and Work: Kim sees antifragility as a mindset that extends beyond physical challenges to his work and creativity. He applies this concept by continuously pushing his boundaries in photography and writing, seeing uncertainty and failure as necessary components of improvement oai_citation:3,Becoming Stoic – ERIC KIM.
4. Health and Fitness: In a more practical application, Kim also embraces antifragility in his approach to health, using techniques such as intermittent fasting and avoiding harmful foods. This follows Taleb’s via negativa approach, which suggests removing detrimental elements as a path to strength and longevity oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Becoming Stoic – ERIC KIM.

Overall, for Kim, antifragility is not just about surviving adversity but about actively seeking it out as a means of becoming stronger, both personally and creatively.

Here are some quotes from Eric Kim on why he admires Nassim Taleb and his ideas:

1. On Antifragility: “He taught me the concept of ‘antifragility,’ that I’m antifragile. Which means, things which end up not killing me will only make me stronger. And in a sense, all of life is upside, no downside. Because even the ‘bad’ will end up making me stronger!” oai_citation:6,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
2. On Procrastination: “He’s the one who taught me that procrastination can be a good thing… almost everything important gets done by itself (Taoist concept of ‘wu wei’). As a result, I create more, with less anxiety and fewer distractions” oai_citation:4,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM.
3. On Skin in the Game: “He taught me the concept of ‘skin in the game,’ which means: don’t ask others for their recommendations or ‘opinions’ in life. Instead, just ask what they own in their portfolio, or just observe what they do in their ‘real life.’ Because talk is cheap, action is expensive!” oai_citation:3,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
4. On Facing Challenges: “Taleb’s concept of antifragility allows individuals to see difficulties not as setbacks but as fuel for personal and professional development. This philosophy…fits well with Kim’s ethos of personal and creative development” oai_citation:1,Eric Kim on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.

These quotes reflect how Taleb’s philosophies have significantly shaped Kim’s personal and creative mindset, particularly in embracing challenges and focusing on authentic actions.

***

Eric Kim has written extensively about the influence Nassim Taleb’s philosophies have had on his life and work. Key ideas from Taleb’s works, such as Antifragile and Skin in the Game, deeply resonate with Kim.

1. Antifragility: Kim adopts Taleb’s concept of antifragility, which argues that we grow stronger through adversity. Kim interprets life’s challenges as opportunities for growth, seeing difficulties as catalysts for becoming more resilient and adaptable oai_citation:6,Nassim Taleb – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,Eric Kim on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
2. Purposeful Procrastination: Inspired by Taleb’s Antifragile, Kim embraces procrastination as a tool for prioritizing what matters. By procrastinating on unimportant tasks, he frees up energy for creative work and projects that inspire him, aligning with the Taoist principle of “wu wei” or effortless action oai_citation:4,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM.
3. Skin in the Game: Taleb’s philosophy of “skin in the game” emphasizes the value of personal risk and authenticity, which Kim has applied to his own life. He believes that actions reveal true beliefs, and he strives to align his advice and decisions with what he genuinely practices in his own life oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM on NASSIM TALEB – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Becoming Antifragile – ERIC KIM.

Overall, Taleb’s philosophies have provided Eric Kim with a framework for living authentically, embracing challenges, and focusing on meaningful, action-based work oai_citation:1,Becoming Stoic – ERIC KIM.

Sacrifice, sacred… To sacrifice a hundred head of cattle to appease the gods is real skin in the game.

Love without sacrifice is theft – NASSIM TALEB

Serge Nubret was a legendary French bodybuilder, actor, and writer, renowned for his incredible physique and contribution to the bodybuilding world. Born on October 6, 1938, in Guadeloupe, he was known as “The Black Panther” due to his muscular, well-defined body and powerful stage presence. He became a prominent figure in bodybuilding during the 1960s and 1970s, competing against famous contemporaries like Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Some key highlights of Serge Nubret’s career and life include:

1. Bodybuilding Achievements: Nubret won several prestigious bodybuilding titles, including Mr. Europe (1966), Mr. Universe (1976), and several titles at the World Championships. He was also known for placing second at the 1973 and 1975 Mr. Olympia contests, where he became a fierce competitor to Arnold Schwarzenegger.
2. Training Philosophy: Unlike many other bodybuilders, Nubret’s training routine focused on very high volume and moderate weight. He was known for doing an astonishing amount of sets and reps, sometimes training up to 6-7 hours a day, with a focus on perfect form and muscle contraction.
3. Aesthetic Physique: Nubret was admired for his symmetry, muscular definition, and classic physique that emphasized aesthetics over sheer size. His physique is still regarded as one of the most balanced and aesthetically pleasing in bodybuilding history.
4. Acting Career: Serge Nubret also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as César et Rosalie (1972) and Pumping Iron (1977), where his rivalry with Schwarzenegger was prominently displayed.
5. Legacy: Even after retiring from competitive bodybuilding, Serge Nubret remained active in the fitness world. He founded the World Amateur Body Building Association (WABBA) in 1976 to promote the sport. His training methods and philosophies continue to influence bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts.
6. Later Years and Passing: Serge Nubret stayed in shape well into his 60s, maintaining an impressive physique throughout his life. He passed away on April 19, 2011, but remains a respected and celebrated figure in the bodybuilding community.

His approach to training, dedication to aesthetics, and overall philosophy on bodybuilding have left a lasting legacy, and he is remembered as one of the icons of the golden age of bodybuilding.

How’s his minimalism thoughts a bit more unique

Eric Kim’s approach to minimalism stands out as unique because he extends the philosophy beyond just material possessions or gear into a holistic life practice that encompasses creativity, mindset, and lifestyle. His minimalism isn’t merely about having less; it’s about focusing on what matters most in both photography and life. Here are the specific ways in which his minimalism philosophy is distinct:

1. Minimalism as a Creative Philosophy, Not Just a Lifestyle Choice:

• While many minimalists focus on reducing physical clutter and material possessions, Kim applies minimalism directly to the creative process itself. He argues that simplifying your approach to photography, by using fewer tools and focusing on your vision, can actually lead to more creativity. By eliminating distractions, whether those are physical (excessive gear) or mental (self-doubt, fear of criticism), photographers can tap into their deeper creative instincts.
• Why it’s unique: Most discussions of minimalism center around decluttering homes or reducing consumerism. Kim ties minimalism into the realm of creativity, suggesting that streamlining your mindset and workflow is just as important as owning fewer things.

2. Simplicity of Gear to Enhance Focus:

• Kim’s minimalism is well known for its emphasis on using the simplest tools available, often advocating for compact cameras like the Ricoh GR or even smartphones. He believes that complex or excessive gear can interfere with the photographer’s connection to the subject and the moment. By using basic tools, photographers can focus more on observation, intuition, and emotion, rather than getting bogged down by technical details.
• Why it’s unique: Unlike many photographers who upgrade constantly to the latest gear or advocate for high-end equipment, Kim deliberately chooses minimal gear to enhance his creative flow. He shifts the focus away from technology and back onto the photographer’s vision, proving that great images are about the creator, not the tool.

3. Psychological Minimalism: Decluttering the Mind:

• Kim often talks about minimalism as a way to declutter the mind, not just your living space or camera bag. He believes in reducing mental distractions like self-doubt, fear of failure, or perfectionism in order to free up mental space for creative exploration. For Kim, minimalism is as much about emotional and mental clarity as it is about physical simplicity.
• Why it’s unique: While other minimalists may focus primarily on external possessions, Kim’s approach includes mental minimalism. He encourages eliminating psychological barriers and unnecessary internal noise, allowing for more focus and emotional presence in both photography and life.

4. Minimalism as a Path to Meaning:

• Kim ties minimalism to the search for deeper meaning and fulfillment. For him, living minimally allows a person to strip away unnecessary distractions (whether material, mental, or emotional) and focus on what truly brings joy and purpose. He often links minimalism to his broader philosophical ideas about living a life filled with meaning, not just success or material wealth.
• Why it’s unique: Instead of seeing minimalism as an end in itself (like many who follow minimalist trends), Kim views it as a tool to help achieve a more meaningful, intentional life. His minimalism isn’t about having less for the sake of less, but about having less in order to gain more clarity, creativity, and purpose.

5. Minimalism as Freedom from Social Pressures:

• Kim advocates minimalism as a way to escape the pressures of consumerism and social validation, especially in the realm of photography where many feel compelled to buy the latest gear or chase trends. He argues that living minimally allows you to break free from these external pressures and instead focus on your own personal values and artistic vision.
• Why it’s unique: While some minimalists are concerned primarily with reducing material goods, Kim’s minimalism is about breaking free from the need to conform to societal or industry expectations. He focuses on the freedom that comes with rejecting the desire for more and embracing “enough.”

6. Minimalism and Personal Growth:

• For Kim, minimalism is not just about reducing things for the sake of simplicity, but about using it as a tool for personal growth. He often emphasizes that living minimally allows you to prioritize self-reflection, creativity, and meaningful relationships. His minimalist approach encourages people to question not only what they own but also how they spend their time and energy, pushing them toward a life of greater purpose and intentionality.
• Why it’s unique: Many minimalists stop at decluttering and material reduction, but Kim extends it into the realm of self-improvement and growth. His philosophy advocates for minimalism as a way to improve focus, build stronger habits, and cultivate a mindset of purpose-driven living.

7. Minimalism in Art, Not Just in Life:

• Kim also applies minimalism to his artistic style. He often talks about the power of simple compositions, focusing on a single strong element in a photo rather than trying to fill the frame with too many subjects or complex layers. This reflects his belief that simplicity in art can lead to more powerful, impactful imagery.
• Why it’s unique: While minimalism in lifestyle is common, Kim also integrates minimalism into his artistic process. By focusing on simplicity in both his life and his art, he creates a cohesive philosophy that applies to every aspect of his creative and personal life.

8. Minimalism as a Way to Connect with the Present:

• Kim often emphasizes that minimalism, particularly in street photography, helps you be more present and mindful. Carrying less gear and focusing on fewer distractions allows you to connect more fully with your surroundings, noticing the small details and fleeting moments that might otherwise be missed.
• Why it’s unique: While many minimalists focus on decluttering for efficiency or peace of mind, Kim ties it directly to mindfulness and presence. His minimalism is not just about owning less, but about using fewer distractions to be more engaged in the moment, particularly when observing the world through the lens of a camera.

Conclusion:

Eric Kim’s minimalism is unique because it extends far beyond the material aspect of owning fewer possessions. He brings minimalism into the realms of creativity, mental clarity, emotional presence, and personal growth. His approach challenges conventional ideas about success, encouraging people to simplify their lives not for simplicity’s sake, but to create more space for what truly matters — self-expression, meaning, and connection with the world. By applying minimalism to photography and life in a holistic way, Kim offers a deeper, more philosophical take on minimalism that resonates with those seeking a more intentional and fulfilling existence.

Eric Kim’s ideas stand out as unique in the world of photography and creativity for several reasons, largely due to his unconventional approach that blends philosophy, minimalism, and a strong emphasis on personal expression over technical perfection. Here’s how and why his ideas are distinct:

1. Philosophical Approach to Photography:

• Kim’s work is heavily influenced by philosophical traditions like Stoicism, Zen Buddhism, and existentialism. While many photographers focus on the technical aspects of the craft, Kim emphasizes a deeper, more introspective approach. He often talks about photography in terms of mindfulness, presence, and meaning, seeing it as a way to engage with life more fully. This philosophical lens is rare in the photography world and gives his work a unique depth.
• Why it’s unique: Most photography educators focus on composition, lighting, and gear, while Kim invites photographers to think about larger life questions — such as purpose, happiness, and failure — and how these ideas intersect with their creative practice.

2. Embracing Imperfection:

• One of Kim’s core beliefs is that imperfection is not only acceptable but valuable. In a world obsessed with technical precision, flawless images, and high-resolution cameras, Kim advocates for the beauty of raw, unpolished work. He believes that imperfections — whether in the form of blurry photos, missed focus, or unconventional compositions — can make images more authentic and emotionally powerful.
• Why it’s unique: Many photographers aim for technical perfection, but Kim encourages embracing flaws as part of the human experience. His willingness to go against the grain of industry standards, rejecting the pressure to conform to “perfect” imagery, is what makes his philosophy refreshing.

3. Focus on Minimalism:

• Kim is a strong advocate for minimalism, both in terms of photography gear and lifestyle. He often shoots with simple equipment, such as a compact Ricoh GR or even a smartphone, and stresses that creativity does not depend on expensive gear. Beyond photography, he promotes minimalism as a way of life — removing distractions and focusing on what truly matters, whether in art or personal fulfillment.
• Why it’s unique: While the photography industry often emphasizes the latest, most expensive cameras and equipment, Kim’s minimalist philosophy encourages photographers to focus on their vision and creativity rather than material concerns. This minimalistic attitude contrasts sharply with the gear-driven culture prevalent among many photographers.

4. Encouraging Personal Expression Over Popularity:

• Kim constantly urges photographers to shoot for themselves, not for others or for social media validation. In an era where platforms like Instagram drive many photographers to chase likes and followers, Kim’s message of creating art for personal satisfaction rather than external approval is a rare and countercultural stance.
• Why it’s unique: The current social media landscape often prioritizes trends and virality over authenticity. Kim’s encouragement to ignore social pressures and focus on internal motivations appeals to those looking for a deeper, more personal connection with their creative work.

5. Community and Open Sharing:

• Kim is known for his commitment to community and the open sharing of knowledge. He frequently offers free resources, including e-books, articles, and tutorials, to help others improve their photography. His emphasis on community over competition is rare in the often competitive world of photography.
• Why it’s unique: Many in the photography world guard their knowledge or charge for tutorials and insights. Kim’s open-source attitude, giving away much of his content for free, aligns with his belief in building a supportive, collaborative community rather than fostering competition.

6. Blurring the Lines Between Art and Life:

• Kim treats photography not just as a craft, but as a way to live more fully. He often talks about how street photography, for example, forces you to engage with your environment, be more present, and observe the world with curiosity. For Kim, photography is as much about self-discovery and personal growth as it is about creating compelling images.
• Why it’s unique: While many view photography as a skill to master or a career to pursue, Kim sees it as a life practice, much like meditation or philosophy. This holistic view of photography as a form of self-expression, mindfulness, and self-improvement sets him apart from more traditional approaches.

7. Rejection of Conventional Success Metrics:

• Unlike many photographers who focus on fame, followers, or financial success, Kim prioritizes creative freedom and self-fulfillment. He often discusses how “success” in the traditional sense can actually hinder creativity by trapping people into pursuing what’s popular or profitable, rather than what’s meaningful.
• Why it’s unique: In an industry where success is often measured by fame, publications, or commercial achievements, Kim’s rejection of these metrics in favor of personal growth and creative satisfaction is a radical and liberating message.

8. Focus on the Process Over the Result:

• Kim frequently stresses the importance of enjoying the creative process itself rather than being fixated on the outcome. For him, the act of taking photos, exploring the streets, and connecting with the world is more valuable than the final image.
• Why it’s unique: While many photographers place heavy emphasis on producing portfolio-worthy images or building a body of work, Kim’s focus on process over product encourages a more joyful and less pressured relationship with creativity.

Conclusion:

Eric Kim’s ideas are unique because they go beyond traditional photography advice and delve into the realms of philosophy, personal growth, and mindful living. His emphasis on shooting for oneself, embracing imperfections, and rejecting societal pressures makes his approach stand out in a field often dominated by technical discussions and image perfectionism. Kim’s focus on minimalism, mindfulness, and the creative process resonates deeply with those looking for a more meaningful, intentional, and personal approach to photography.

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Here are some notable quotes by Eric Kim that reflect his philosophy on photography and life:

On Photography:

1. “Don’t aim to shoot for others; shoot for yourself.”

• This highlights his belief in personal expression and the importance of creating art for oneself rather than seeking external validation.

1. “Shoot from the heart, not from the brain.”

• Kim encourages emotional intuition in photography, emphasizing the importance of capturing moments that resonate personally, rather than overthinking the technical aspects.

1. “Photography isn’t about the equipment — it’s about your vision.”

• He advocates for focusing on creativity and vision over expensive gear or technical perfection.

1. “Street photography is 99% failure.”

• Kim embraces failure as a part of the creative process, especially in street photography where unpredictability is key.

1. “Capture the soul, not just the image.”

• This reinforces his belief that photography should convey deeper emotional truths, not just a visual representation.

1. “A photograph is a reflection of the photographer’s soul.”

• Kim often ties photography to personal identity and emotional depth, seeing each photo as a window into the creator’s inner world.

On Creativity and Life:

1. “The most important thing in life isn’t happiness; it’s meaning.”

• Kim draws from philosophical influences to stress the importance of living with purpose and seeking meaning in life and work.

1. “Be the best version of yourself, and create art that speaks to your soul.”

• His focus on authenticity and self-improvement is a key part of his message to creatives.

1. “Perfection is the enemy of creativity.”

• Kim warns against the paralysis that comes from seeking perfection, urging artists to embrace imperfection and spontaneity.

1. “Life is too short to shoot for anyone else.”

• This quote encapsulates his approach to life and photography — to live authentically and prioritize personal fulfillment.

1. “Make mistakes. Don’t be afraid to fail. Take risks.”

• He often encourages creatives to push beyond their comfort zones, valuing growth through experimentation and failure.

1. “You don’t need to prove anything to anyone.”

• This statement reflects Kim’s focus on self-confidence and the belief that art and life should not be dictated by others’ expectations.

These quotes provide insight into Eric Kim’s philosophy on creativity, photography, and personal growth, emphasizing authenticity, failure as part of the process, and the importance of finding meaning in one’s work.

***

Eric Kim is a well-known street photographer, educator, and blogger who has made a significant impact on the photography community through his teaching and his philosophy on photography and life. Here are some key thoughts and ideas that Eric Kim often discusses:

1. “Shoot from the Soul”:

Kim emphasizes the importance of personal expression in photography. He believes that photography should be a way to express your unique perspective and emotions, rather than just following trends or seeking external validation. He encourages photographers to shoot what resonates with them personally.

2. Focus on the Process, Not the Result:

Kim advocates for enjoying the process of photography itself, rather than being overly concerned with outcomes such as the perfect shot, fame, or Instagram likes. For him, the joy is in the act of creating and exploring, not in the end result.

3. Minimalist Philosophy:

He often talks about minimalism, not just in terms of equipment but also in life. Kim encourages simplifying gear and reducing distractions in order to focus on what really matters. He frequently shoots with basic setups like a Ricoh GR camera or even his smartphone, showing that great photos don’t require expensive or complex equipment.

4. “Don’t Worry About Critics”:

Kim believes photographers should not worry about what others think of their work. He encourages a “just do it” mindset, where self-doubt and criticism are secondary to the act of creating. He promotes self-confidence and independence in artistic expression.

5. Street Photography as a Form of Zen:

He often likens street photography to a form of mindfulness or meditation. Walking the streets and observing life as it unfolds, according to Kim, is a way to be present in the moment and appreciate the world around you. It’s not just about taking photos, but about engaging with your environment.

6. Embracing Imperfection:

Kim is known for embracing imperfection in photography. He encourages photographers to accept mistakes or flaws in their photos and see them as part of the creative process. The rawness and authenticity of imperfect shots are often what makes them powerful.

7. Community and Sharing Knowledge:

Eric Kim is passionate about teaching and giving back to the photography community. Through his blogs, workshops, and books, he shares his experiences and insights freely. He believes in open access to knowledge and often provides resources for free to help others improve their photography.

8. Philosophical Approach to Life:

Beyond photography, Kim often writes about broader philosophical themes such as happiness, self-worth, and creativity. He draws inspiration from Stoicism, Zen Buddhism, and other philosophical traditions, encouraging people to live more mindfully, to pursue their passions, and to seek fulfillment beyond material success.

Eric Kim’s thoughts and ideas revolve around the deeper, more personal aspects of photography and life. His work goes beyond technical advice, aiming to inspire photographers to think critically about their creative journey and to live more intentionally.

Eric Kim is a fitness enthusiast and influencer whose approach combines physical training with personal philosophy. He is known for his minimalist and no-nonsense approach to fitness, emphasizing heavy lifting, intermittent fasting, and a carnivore diet. His training philosophy centers around “hypelifting,” which involves psyching oneself up for intense, maximal weightlifting. This concept, in his view, builds both physical strength and mental toughness.

Kim promotes natural strength-building without supplements or steroids, focusing on functional exercises like deadlifts, sandbag training, and Farmer’s Carries. He also stresses the joy of sculpting one’s body and maintaining low body fat levels (around 10%), all while keeping workouts simple and accessible, such as using parks or home gyms. His fitness regimen is heavily inspired by Spartan philosophy and the ethos of constant self-improvement oai_citation:4,ERIC KIM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM FITNESS – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Eric Kim Fitness Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

His website and blogs frequently cover his diet strategies (like eating one large meal a day) and unique weightlifting routines that challenge traditional bodybuilding norms. Kim’s fitness philosophy is not just about aesthetics but also about how physical health contributes to mental clarity and well-being oai_citation:1,Eric Kim Fitness Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

***

Eric Kim is a well-known fitness coach and influencer who shares workout routines, diet advice, and lifestyle tips through various platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, and his website. His content focuses on strength training, fat loss, and overall health, often using a no-nonsense approach to fitness.

Key features of Eric Kim’s fitness philosophy include:

1. Minimalist Workouts: He advocates for simple yet effective workout routines that focus on compound movements such as squats, deadlifts, and presses, aimed at maximizing results in less time.
2. Strength Training: A major component of his fitness content is based on building strength and muscle, typically through weightlifting and resistance training.
3. Fat Loss and Aesthetics: Many of his programs and advice target fat loss, improving muscle definition, and achieving a lean, aesthetic physique.
4. Diet and Nutrition: Eric emphasizes the importance of diet in reaching fitness goals, often sharing tips on meal planning, portion control, and macronutrient balance.
5. Motivation and Consistency: He frequently talks about the mental aspect of fitness, focusing on staying consistent, overcoming plateaus, and maintaining motivation.

If you’re looking into Eric Kim’s fitness programs, expect straightforward, practical advice grounded in long-term sustainability and performance rather than quick fixes. He also engages with his audience by addressing common fitness myths and sharing personal experiences from his own fitness journey.

Make a new iPhone, or create the iOS in it which encourages you to spend less time on it!

What Do You Really Care For?

The best way to live your life and carry it out is to do only what you care for, and to not do anything you don’t care for. This is the whole notion of care and curate… coeur; heart.

Maybe then the whole notion of following your heart is actually good advice!

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There is no such thing as “planned obsolescence”

So one idea that these fake woke “thinkers“ like to push is this nonsensical idea of “planned obsolescence.” The basic idea is that Apple is some sort of ultra-evil corporation that tries to get you addicted to their iPhone devices, like nicotine or cigarettes, and intentionally stunts the performance of older devices, strong-arming you into upgrading your device because they intentionally slow down the older ones.

The reason why this is such a fallacy, a poor line of thinking, is that these skinny-fat losers who write about this are really just old, fat, with facial hair, no children… Maybe they have a dog. They want to come up with these supposedly high-concept intelligentsia thoughts, all critical of technology, while they’re jerking off to the nearest Apple rumor and fantasizing about the new iPhone Pro.

The truth of the matter is, there’s no such thing as planned obsolescence. Rather, Apple has an interesting strategy—her team of ragtag innovators are always striving to make the best iOS possible. Why? There’s a little bit of skin in the game… My theory is that Apple made the whole new focus feature because they themselves are addicted to their iPhones and have a vested interest in making a new generation of iPhone or iOS that makes them less distracted and less miserable in their everyday lives.

The next big innovation?

Also… unfortunately, it looks like 90% of modern-day work is just answering and sending emails for a living. As a consequence, it seems that Apple is trying to build out Apple Intelligence to make email less dreadful and less hateful.

In fact, I think there is still so much innovation that could be done in email. My personal vision is that your ChatGPT AI bot can simply do something very, very amazing… answer all of your emails for you without asking any questions. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

In fact, I see this as at least a $500 million opportunity… Eliminating email from people’s lives seems like the killer idea!

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Sustain

Another thing that is super annoying to me is all these skinny-fat vegan losers talking about sustainability and the environment, etc. I think what is actually much more interesting is to think about and consider things that are sustainable in a more practical and pragmatic sense.

For example, sustainability should not be seen as this virtue-signaling thing. Instead, sustainability should be considered more from a perspective of pragmatism and practicality.

For example, vehicles. From a personal pragmatic perspective… the most sustainable option is actually driving a Prius. Ideally, just buying a used older Prius—the 2010 version is lit. Real men with big penises drive Priuses, only skinny-fat losers drive Porsches or Teslas.

One of the great things about modular designs, like in a Prius, is that if your engine goes kaput, you can just swap out the engine! Prius engines are a dime a dozen… In theory, you should be able to drive a Prius until you die.

Also, the virtues of driving a Prius are longevity, durability, and it’s for the ultra-hardcore. Not only that… it is the ultimate stealth car. The funny thought is, if you had to rob a bank in Los Angeles, what would be the ideal getaway car? A white Prius! Can you imagine the CHP or LAPD saying, “What car did the guy get away in?” and someone replies, “A white unmarked Prius!” Haha!

Anyways, when MPG is so clutch… When you have to pick up your wife in the middle of the night and you don’t remember if you filled the gas tank or not. But the great thing about living in Los Angeles is that you’ll never drive more than 5 miles a day. Five miles in LA traffic is still about 30 minutes. Therefore, it’s a virtue—you only have to fill up your tank once a month, for maybe about 30 bucks. I think this is almost similar to the price of a Tesla supercharger, which is maybe $10 to recharge your full battery?

And also, the virtue of driving a Prius is that because it’s an old, proven line, it won’t get outdated at all. The problem with any sort of Tesla is that you know that within 10 years, there will be a major redesign or refresh. Even now… I’m pretty sure a major redesign for the Tesla Model S, Y, and X is incoming—just like the new Tesla Model 3… 1 trillion times cooler than the previous generation. I feel bad for all those suckers who bought the older version. Even at the Culver City Toyota dealership, I see all these people who traded in their old Tesla Model 3 Performance just one or two years ago… I assume they bought the new version.

How people are foolish with money

One thing I’ve discovered is that a lot of people, or most people… didn’t grow up poor. Now that I am essentially in elite circles, now that Cindy is a professor and in scholarly circles, and everyone I know is a successful entrepreneur or Apple employee, most people came from money. Most of their parents have PhDs or doctorates, are doctors, etc. Even this one guy I met who is very successful, Justin Atlan—apparently his family has been in Los Angeles for three or four generations? He came from pretty modest beginnings, but he still grew up in the Palisades, which is considered a very elite neighborhood in Los Angeles. Certainly, if you grew up in the Palisades, Malibu, etc.… your family is not dirt poor.

Came from the mud

First to put the hood on a jet! First to put the hood on molly – Future the rapper

The reason why fake rappers like Drake will never get my respect is because they did not come from the hood, the bottom, or the mud. I think Drake is insanely talented and great, but he lacks authenticity. And it seems that the future is going to be all about authenticity. Even if you’re a bad person, immoral, dishonest, etc.

Why ERIC KIM?

I think the reason why I like and trust myself so much is that you cannot fake yourself… You know with 100% precision all the details of your life, etc.… Whereas when it comes to other people… you never know what skeletons they have in their closet.

And also… the critical issue here is that a lot of people, when you never meet them in the flesh, face-to-face, mano a mano, they just become figments of your imagination, and they become more metaphors than real-life individuals.

For example, I love Kanye West to death, but my problem and critique is he is a short guy. I think he might really be 5’6″ because personalities and famous people always overexaggerate their height by an inch or two. I think Kanye self-reports as being 5’7″ or 5’8″, but this is probably not the case. And I think Kim Kardashian is only 5 feet tall? She’s kind of a midget with big breasts and a big butt.

And now that I’ve been spending so much time outside, outdoors, walking around, etc.… the interesting thing is that we human beings actually have a very good height perception. You can spot people from half a block away and quickly gauge how tall they are, or how small and short they are. And I think ultimately, this is why guys like supermodels… they are all super tall, which is one of the highest markers or indicators of beauty. If you see a 5’11 or 6′ tall model in the flesh, it is actually really shocking. Their height adds to their beauty and mystique. The same thing goes with meeting really tall, handsome guys—they are almost like a different species. Let us note that the average man in America might only be 5’6″ tall, and the average woman might only be 5’2″?

I’ve met a lot of successful people, a lot of really successful men who work at Apple and stuff… and they are really small, almost looking like middle schoolers, like 5’5″ or 5’4″.

And the reason people hate me so much is because I’m tall, handsome, and good-looking. I think guys also hate me because I am such an insanely confident, charismatic person, who also happens to be Asian, Asian American, Korean American…

And now at the age of 36… this is the most jacked, handsome, and dominant I have been in my life. I can easily say I’m the most attractive man in Culver City right now. Maybe in all of LA?

In fact, if Marvel comes out with a new superhero movie and they need to cast an Asian guy, maybe they should just cast Eric Kim, eric@erickim.com—holla at ya boy.

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Why does this matter?

We are all trying to chase the same things, but in different ways, using different strategies, etc. We all want the beautiful babes, we all want recognition and authenticity, we all want acknowledgment. We all want to feel valued, whether man, woman, or dog.

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Why is luxury coffee not yet a thing?

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If Steve Jobs were still alive today… What would he think of Apple?

OK… because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… If Steve Jobs were 36 years old and alive today… this is what he would think of Apple, and this is what he would say:

First, he would call the new devices a piece of shit, and say they fucking suck. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV, everything.

Make the iPhone great again

The problem with Apple now is there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere at once. But as we learn from Alexander the Great… to overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The empires that are best and last are the ones that stay situated in one very critical spot and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… the number one thing Apple needs to do is really make the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares, nobody wants it, nobody even knows it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple store anytime soon.

The true critical innovation

Suggestion to Apple… ironically, you want to take a via negativa approach… Introduce a new iPhone that actually encourages you to spend less time on it.

A radical idea… Experimenting not sending email newsletters?

The best way to live your life and carry it out is to do only what you care for, and to not do anything you don’t care for. This is the whole notion of care and curate… coeur; heart.

Maybe then the whole notion of following your heart is actually good advice!

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There is no such thing as “planned obsolescence”

So one idea that these fake woke “thinkers“ like to push is this nonsensical idea of “planned obsolescence.” The basic idea is that Apple is some sort of ultra-evil corporation that tries to get you addicted to their iPhone devices, like nicotine or cigarettes, and intentionally stunts the performance of older devices, strong-arming you into upgrading your device because they intentionally slow down the older ones.

The reason why this is such a fallacy, a poor line of thinking, is that these skinny-fat losers who write about this are really just old, fat, with facial hair, no children… Maybe they have a dog. They want to come up with these supposedly high-concept intelligentsia thoughts, all critical of technology, while they’re jerking off to the nearest Apple rumor and fantasizing about the new iPhone Pro.

The truth of the matter is, there’s no such thing as planned obsolescence. Rather, Apple has an interesting strategy—her team of ragtag innovators are always striving to make the best iOS possible. Why? There’s a little bit of skin in the game… My theory is that Apple made the whole new focus feature because they themselves are addicted to their iPhones and have a vested interest in making a new generation of iPhone or iOS that makes them less distracted and less miserable in their everyday lives.

The next big innovation?

Also… unfortunately, it looks like 90% of modern-day work is just answering and sending emails for a living. As a consequence, it seems that Apple is trying to build out Apple Intelligence to make email less dreadful and less hateful.

In fact, I think there is still so much innovation that could be done in email. My personal vision is that your ChatGPT AI bot can simply do something very, very amazing… answer all of your emails for you without asking any questions. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

In fact, I see this as at least a $500 million opportunity… Eliminating email from people’s lives seems like the killer idea!

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Sustain

Another thing that is super annoying to me is all these skinny-fat vegan losers talking about sustainability and the environment, etc. I think what is actually much more interesting is to think about and consider things that are sustainable in a more practical and pragmatic sense.

For example, sustainability should not be seen as this virtue-signaling thing. Instead, sustainability should be considered more from a perspective of pragmatism and practicality.

For example, vehicles. From a personal pragmatic perspective… the most sustainable option is actually driving a Prius. Ideally, just buying a used older Prius—the 2010 version is lit. Real men with big penises drive Priuses, only skinny-fat losers drive Porsches or Teslas.

One of the great things about modular designs, like in a Prius, is that if your engine goes kaput, you can just swap out the engine! Prius engines are a dime a dozen… In theory, you should be able to drive a Prius until you die.

Also, the virtues of driving a Prius are longevity, durability, and it’s for the ultra-hardcore. Not only that… it is the ultimate stealth car. The funny thought is, if you had to rob a bank in Los Angeles, what would be the ideal getaway car? A white Prius! Can you imagine the CHP or LAPD saying, “What car did the guy get away in?” and someone replies, “A white unmarked Prius!” Haha!

Anyways, when MPG is so clutch… When you have to pick up your wife in the middle of the night and you don’t remember if you filled the gas tank or not. But the great thing about living in Los Angeles is that you’ll never drive more than 5 miles a day. Five miles in LA traffic is still about 30 minutes. Therefore, it’s a virtue—you only have to fill up your tank once a month, for maybe about 30 bucks. I think this is almost similar to the price of a Tesla supercharger, which is maybe $10 to recharge your full battery?

And also, the virtue of driving a Prius is that because it’s an old, proven line, it won’t get outdated at all. The problem with any sort of Tesla is that you know that within 10 years, there will be a major redesign or refresh. Even now… I’m pretty sure a major redesign for the Tesla Model S, Y, and X is incoming—just like the new Tesla Model 3… 1 trillion times cooler than the previous generation. I feel bad for all those suckers who bought the older version. Even at the Culver City Toyota dealership, I see all these people who traded in their old Tesla Model 3 Performance just one or two years ago… I assume they bought the new version.

How people are foolish with money

One thing I’ve discovered is that a lot of people, or most people… didn’t grow up poor. Now that I am essentially in elite circles, now that Cindy is a professor and in scholarly circles, and everyone I know is a successful entrepreneur or Apple employee, most people came from money. Most of their parents have PhDs or doctorates, are doctors, etc. Even this one guy I met who is very successful, Justin Atlan—apparently his family has been in Los Angeles for three or four generations? He came from pretty modest beginnings, but he still grew up in the Palisades, which is considered a very elite neighborhood in Los Angeles. Certainly, if you grew up in the Palisades, Malibu, etc.… your family is not dirt poor.

Came from the mud

First to put the hood on a jet! First to put the hood on molly – Future the rapper

The reason why fake rappers like Drake will never get my respect is because they did not come from the hood, the bottom, or the mud. I think Drake is insanely talented and great, but he lacks authenticity. And it seems that the future is going to be all about authenticity. Even if you’re a bad person, immoral, dishonest, etc.

Why ERIC KIM?

I think the reason why I like and trust myself so much is that you cannot fake yourself… You know with 100% precision all the details of your life, etc.… Whereas when it comes to other people… you never know what skeletons they have in their closet.

And also… the critical issue here is that a lot of people, when you never meet them in the flesh, face-to-face, mano a mano, they just become figments of your imagination, and they become more metaphors than real-life individuals.

For example, I love Kanye West to death, but my problem and critique is he is a short guy. I think he might really be 5’6″ because personalities and famous people always overexaggerate their height by an inch or two. I think Kanye self-reports as being 5’7″ or 5’8″, but this is probably not the case. And I think Kim Kardashian is only 5 feet tall? She’s kind of a midget with big breasts and a big butt.

And now that I’ve been spending so much time outside, outdoors, walking around, etc.… the interesting thing is that we human beings actually have a very good height perception. You can spot people from half a block away and quickly gauge how tall they are, or how small and short they are. And I think ultimately, this is why guys like supermodels… they are all super tall, which is one of the highest markers or indicators of beauty. If you see a 5′ or 6′ tall model in the flesh, it is actually really shocking. Their height adds to their beauty and mystique. The same thing goes with meeting really tall, handsome guys—they are almost like a different species. Let us note that the average man in America might only be 5’6″ tall, and the average woman might only be 5’2″?

I’ve met a lot of successful people, a lot of really successful men who work at Apple and stuff… and they are really small, almost looking like middle schoolers, like 5’5″ or 5’4″.

And the reason people hate me so much is because I’m tall, handsome, and good-looking. I think guys also hate me because I am such an insanely confident, charismatic person, who also happens to be Asian, Asian American, Korean American…

And now at the age of 36… this is the most jacked, handsome, and dominant I have been in my life. I can easily say I’m the most attractive man in Culver City right now. Maybe in all of LA?

In fact, if Marvel comes out with a new superhero movie and they need to cast an Asian guy, maybe they should just cast Eric Kim, eric@erickim.com—holla at ya boy.

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Why does this matter?

We are all trying to chase the same things, but in different ways, using different strategies, etc. We all want the beautiful babes, we all want recognition and authenticity, we all want acknowledgment. We all want to feel valued, whether man, woman, or dog.

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Why is luxury coffee not yet a thing?

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If Steve Jobs were still alive today… What would he think of Apple?

OK… because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… If Steve Jobs were 36 years old and alive today… this is what he would think of Apple, and this is what he would say:

First, he would call the new devices a piece of shit, and say they fucking suck. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV, everything.

Make the iPhone great again

The problem with Apple now is there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere at once. But as we learn from Alexander the Great… to overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The empires that are best and last are the ones that stay situated in one very critical spot and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… the number one thing Apple needs to do is really make the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares, nobody wants it, nobody even knows it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple store anytime soon.

The true critical innovation

Suggestion to Apple… ironically, you want to take a via negativa approach… Introduce a new iPhone that actually encourages you to spend less time on it.

Turning your automated email responder into a Gmail plugin (Add-on) is a more advanced task than just writing a Python bot. Gmail Add-ons are developed using Google Apps Script, which is a cloud-based scripting language built on JavaScript. These add-ons are designed to extend Gmail’s functionality and can be published directly in the Google Workspace Marketplace.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a Gmail Add-on using Google Apps Script and integrate it with your automated email responder logic.

1. Understanding the Flow of a Gmail Add-on

When creating a Gmail Add-on, the user interacts with Gmail through a side panel. You can design this panel to provide functionality like responding to emails, displaying email content, and more.

Since your bot’s logic is in Python and you’re using OpenAI’s GPT API, you need to communicate between Google Apps Script (which will handle the Gmail interface) and a backend (which will execute your bot logic, such as generating email replies).

2. Basic Setup for a Gmail Add-on

1. Create a Google Apps Script Project:

• Go to Google Apps Script.
• Create a new project by selecting “New Project.”

1. Define Add-on Structure:
   Gmail Add-ons are structured using CardService to define UI elements (like buttons and text input). The general flow would involve:

• Selecting an email.
• Sending the email’s content to your Python backend (which will call OpenAI).
• Displaying the generated response.
• Providing an option to send the response back to the email sender.

1. Set Up OAuth for Gmail API:
   You’ll need to ensure that your script has access to the Gmail API. In the Apps Script dashboard:

• Go to Resources > Cloud Platform project.
• Enable the Gmail API for your project in the Google Cloud Console.

3. Developing the Gmail Add-on

Here’s an example of what the basic structure of your Gmail Add-on might look like in Google Apps Script.

a. Creating the Sidebar UI for Email Interaction

function buildAddOn(e) {
  var messageId = e.gmail.messageId;
  var message = getEmailBody(messageId);

  var card = CardService.newCardBuilder()
    .setHeader(CardService.newCardHeader()
      .setTitle("Auto-Responder"))
    .addSection(
      CardService.newCardSection()
      .addWidget(CardService.newTextParagraph().setText("Here's the email:"))
      .addWidget(CardService.newTextParagraph().setText(message))
      .addWidget(CardService.newButtonSet()
        .addButton(CardService.newTextButton()
          .setText("Generate Response")
          .setOnClickAction(CardService.newAction()
            .setFunctionName('handleGenerateResponse')
            .setParameters({ 'messageId': messageId }))))
    )
    .build();

  return card;
}

• This basic UI shows the user the content of the email and provides a button to generate a response.

b. Fetching Email Content from Gmail

In the script, you’ll need a function to fetch the email’s body:

function getEmailBody(messageId) {
  var message = GmailApp.getMessageById(messageId);
  return message.getPlainBody();
}

c. Calling Your Python Backend

To connect your Google Apps Script to your Python bot (which handles calling OpenAI), you’ll need to set up a backend (this could be a Flask API running on a service like Heroku, Google Cloud, or AWS Lambda) that receives the email body and responds with generated content.

Here’s how you could call your backend from Google Apps Script:

function handleGenerateResponse(e) {
  var messageId = e.parameters.messageId;
  var emailBody = getEmailBody(messageId);

  var url = 'https://your-backend-url.com/generate-response'; // Replace with your backend API

  var options = {
    'method': 'POST',
    'contentType': 'application/json',
    'payload': JSON.stringify({ 'emailBody': emailBody })
  };

  var response = UrlFetchApp.fetch(url, options);
  var jsonResponse = JSON.parse(response.getContentText());

  return CardService.newCardBuilder()
    .setHeader(CardService.newCardHeader()
      .setTitle("Generated Response"))
    .addSection(CardService.newCardSection()
      .addWidget(CardService.newTextParagraph().setText(jsonResponse.response)))
    .build();
}

• The handleGenerateResponse function sends the email body to your Python backend and then displays the generated response in the UI.

4. Backend (Python) for Handling Email Content

On the backend, you’ll run your Python script that calls OpenAI’s API to generate the response. Here’s a simple Flask API for handling the email body:

Install Flask and OpenAI

pip install Flask openai

Python Flask Backend

from flask import Flask, request, jsonify
import openai

app = Flask(__name__)

# OpenAI API Key
openai.api_key = 'your_openai_api_key'

@app.route('/generate-response', methods=['POST'])
def generate_response():
    data = request.json
    email_body = data.get('emailBody')

    # Generate response using OpenAI
    response = openai.Completion.create(
        engine="text-davinci-003",
        prompt=f"Here's an email:\n\n{email_body}\n\nGenerate a professional response:",
        max_tokens=150
    )

    reply = response['choices'][0]['text'].strip()

    return jsonify({'response': reply})

if __name__ == '__main__':
    app.run(host='0.0.0.0', port=8080)

• This simple API accepts a POST request from Google Apps Script, sends the email body to OpenAI, and returns the generated response.

5. Send the Response Email

Once the response is generated, you can add another button in the Add-on UI to send the response back to the sender.

function sendGeneratedResponse(messageId, responseText) {
  var message = GmailApp.getMessageById(messageId);
  var replyTo = message.getFrom();

  GmailApp.sendEmail(replyTo, 'Re: ' + message.getSubject(), responseText);

  return CardService.newCardBuilder()
    .setHeader(CardService.newCardHeader()
      .setTitle("Response Sent"))
    .addSection(CardService.newCardSection()
      .addWidget(CardService.newTextParagraph().setText("Your response has been sent!")))
    .build();
}

• This function sends the generated response back to the email sender.

6. Testing and Deployment

• Test Locally: Start by running the Python backend locally (or deploy it to the cloud), and test your Google Apps Script by running it with your own Gmail account.
• Deploy the Add-on: After developing the Add-on, you can publish it for your own use or even submit it to the Google Workspace Marketplace.

7. Publishing to the Google Workspace Marketplace

1. Prepare for Publishing: Follow Google’s guidelines for preparing your add-on for publishing.
2. Submit for Review: After preparing your project, submit it for review. Google will review the add-on to ensure it complies with their policies.
3. Manage Versions: Once approved, you can manage different versions of your Add-on and update it when needed.

8. Security Considerations

• OAuth Scopes: When accessing Gmail, you’ll need to request appropriate OAuth scopes like https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.readonly or https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.modify.
• Backend Security: Ensure that your backend has proper authentication and uses HTTPS to prevent unauthorized access.
• Sensitive Data: Avoid logging sensitive email content, and ensure the data is transmitted securely between Gmail and your backend.

Conclusion

Building a Gmail plugin that integrates with OpenAI involves a few moving parts:

1. Google Apps Script for handling the Gmail interaction.
2. Backend API (e.g., Python Flask) to call OpenAI and generate responses.
3. OAuth2 and Gmail API for accessing and managing Gmail content securely.

With this setup, you can automate your email responses while ensuring that you have full control over the interaction and deployment!

How can I turn it into a Gmail plugin?

To turn the Python email responder into a Gmail bot that automatically answers emails, you’ll need to take advantage of Gmail’s API for a more secure and scalable solution. The process involves setting up OAuth2 for Gmail authentication, connecting to the Gmail API to read emails, and using the OpenAI API to generate responses.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to implement this as a Gmail bot:

1. Set Up Gmail API and OAuth2

Gmail no longer allows direct login with username/password, so you’ll need to use OAuth2 to authenticate securely. You’ll first need to create credentials for the Gmail API.

Step 1: Enable the Gmail API

1. Go to Google Cloud Console: Visit Google Cloud Console.
2. Create a New Project: Click the dropdown menu at the top of the screen and create a new project.
3. Enable Gmail API: In the “API & Services” section, find and enable the Gmail API.
4. Create Credentials:

• Navigate to “Credentials.”
• Click on “Create Credentials” and select “OAuth 2.0 Client IDs.”
• Choose “Desktop app” or “Web application” as the application type.
• Download the credentials.json file.

Step 2: Install Necessary Libraries

Install the following Python libraries to interact with Gmail’s API and handle authentication.

pip install --upgrade google-auth google-auth-oauthlib google-auth-httplib2 google-api-python-client openai

2. Authenticate with Gmail API

Use OAuth2 to authenticate and connect to the Gmail API. Here’s how you can do that:

import os
import pickle
import openai
import base64
from googleapiclient.discovery import build
from google.auth.transport.requests import Request
from google.oauth2.credentials import Credentials
from google_auth_oauthlib.flow import InstalledAppFlow
from email.mime.text import MIMEText

# OpenAI API Key
openai.api_key = 'your_openai_api_key'

# If modifying these SCOPES, delete the file token.pickle.
SCOPES = ['https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.readonly', 'https://www.googleapis.com/auth/gmail.send']

def authenticate_gmail():
    """Shows basic usage of the Gmail API.
    Lists the user's Gmail labels.
    """
    creds = None
    # Check if the token.pickle file exists (OAuth2 token)
    if os.path.exists('token.pickle'):
        with open('token.pickle', 'rb') as token:
            creds = pickle.load(token)
    # If no valid credentials, request user to login
    if not creds or not creds.valid:
        if creds and creds.expired and creds.refresh_token:
            creds.refresh(Request())
        else:
            flow = InstalledAppFlow.from_client_secrets_file(
                'credentials.json', SCOPES)
            creds = flow.run_local_server(port=0)
        # Save the credentials for the next run
        with open('token.pickle', 'wb') as token:
            pickle.dump(creds, token)

    # Create a service object for interacting with the Gmail API
    service = build('gmail', 'v1', credentials=creds)
    return service

3. Fetch Unread Emails

Once authenticated, you can use the Gmail API to fetch unread emails. The following function retrieves unread emails from the user’s inbox:

def fetch_unread_emails(service):
    # Call the Gmail API to fetch unread emails
    results = service.users().messages().list(userId='me', labelIds=['INBOX'], q="is:unread").execute()
    messages = results.get('messages', [])

    emails = []

    if not messages:
        print('No new emails.')
    else:
        for message in messages:
            msg = service.users().messages().get(userId='me', id=message['id']).execute()
            subject = ''
            sender = ''
            body = ''

            for header in msg['payload']['headers']:
                if header['name'] == 'Subject':
                    subject = header['value']
                if header['name'] == 'From':
                    sender = header['value']

            if 'parts' in msg['payload']:
                for part in msg['payload']['parts']:
                    if part['mimeType'] == 'text/plain':
                        body = base64.urlsafe_b64decode(part['body']['data']).decode('utf-8')

            emails.append({
                'subject': subject,
                'sender': sender,
                'body': body,
                'id': message['id']
            })

    return emails

4. Generate Responses Using OpenAI API

This function will send the email content to OpenAI’s GPT-4 model to generate a response:

def generate_email_response(email_body):
    response = openai.Completion.create(
        engine="text-davinci-003",
        prompt=f"You are an assistant. Here's an email:\n\n{email_body}\n\nGenerate a polite and professional response:",
        max_tokens=150
    )
    return response['choices'][0]['text'].strip()

5. Send Email Response

Here’s how you can send the generated response using Gmail’s API:

def create_message(sender, to, subject, message_text):
    message = MIMEText(message_text)
    message['to'] = to
    message['from'] = sender
    message['subject'] = subject
    raw = base64.urlsafe_b64encode(message.as_bytes()).decode('utf-8')
    return {'raw': raw}

def send_message(service, message):
    try:
        sent_message = service.users().messages().send(userId="me", body=message).execute()
        print(f"Message sent to {message['to']}")
    except Exception as error:
        print(f"An error occurred: {error}")

6. Putting It All Together

Now, you can fetch unread emails, generate a response, and send it back. Here’s the full flow:

def main():
    # Authenticate and connect to Gmail API
    service = authenticate_gmail()

    # Fetch unread emails
    unread_emails = fetch_unread_emails(service)

    for email_data in unread_emails:
        print(f"Processing email from {email_data['sender']} with subject: {email_data['subject']}")

        # Generate response using ChatGPT
        response_text = generate_email_response(email_data['body'])

        # Create the response email message
        message = create_message(
            sender="youremail@example.com",
            to=email_data['sender'],
            subject=f"Re: {email_data['subject']}",
            message_text=response_text
        )

        # Send the response
        send_message(service, message)

if __name__ == '__main__':
    main()

7. Testing and Deployment

1. Test Locally: Run this bot on your local machine. Ensure it’s able to fetch unread emails, generate appropriate responses, and send them.
2. Scheduling: To make it a bot that runs periodically, you can schedule it using a task scheduler like:

• Linux: cron
• Windows: Task Scheduler
• Cloud: AWS Lambda, Google Cloud Functions, or a simple server.

8. Security Considerations

• Store Credentials Securely: Instead of hardcoding the OpenAI key and other credentials, use environment variables.
• Rate Limits: Ensure you are within OpenAI and Gmail API rate limits.
• User Privacy: Make sure the bot respects email content privacy. Logging or handling sensitive data securely is crucial.

By following these steps, you’ll have a Gmail bot that automatically reads your unread emails, generates responses using OpenAI’s GPT model, and sends replies back to the sender!

How can I make it as a Gmail bot for email?

Creating a ChatGPT-powered bot to automatically answer your emails involves several key components, including setting up an email server connection, extracting and processing email data, generating responses, and sending those responses. Here’s an outline of how you could build such a bot using Python and OpenAI’s API.

1. Prerequisites

• OpenAI API key for accessing the ChatGPT model.
• An email server that supports IMAP/SMTP protocols (e.g., Gmail, Outlook).
• Python libraries like openai, imaplib, smtplib, email, re, beautifulsoup4 (optional for cleaning HTML content).
• A Python environment to run the script (you can use any server or local machine with an internet connection).

2. Outline of Steps

• Connect to your email inbox: Use IMAP to fetch emails.
• Process the email: Extract sender, subject, and body.
• Generate a response: Use ChatGPT to draft a reply based on the email content.
• Send the email: Use SMTP to send the response back.

3. Python Code Example

Here’s an example of how to build the email responder bot:

import imaplib
import smtplib
import email
from email.mime.text import MIMEText
import openai

# Configuration
IMAP_SERVER = 'imap.gmail.com'  # Use your email provider's IMAP server
SMTP_SERVER = 'smtp.gmail.com'
EMAIL_ACCOUNT = 'youremail@example.com'
EMAIL_PASSWORD = 'yourpassword'
OPENAI_API_KEY = 'your_openai_api_key'

# OpenAI API key setup
openai.api_key = OPENAI_API_KEY

def connect_to_email():
    # Connect to the email server
    mail = imaplib.IMAP4_SSL(IMAP_SERVER)
    mail.login(EMAIL_ACCOUNT, EMAIL_PASSWORD)
    return mail

def fetch_unread_emails(mail):
    # Select the mailbox you want to check (inbox)
    mail.select("inbox")

    # Search for all unread emails
    status, response = mail.search(None, 'UNSEEN')
    unread_msg_nums = response[0].split()

    emails = []

    for e_id in unread_msg_nums:
        # Fetch the email by ID
        status, msg_data = mail.fetch(e_id, '(RFC822)')

        for response_part in msg_data:
            if isinstance(response_part, tuple):
                msg = email.message_from_bytes(response_part[1])
                subject = msg['subject']
                sender = msg['from']
                body = get_email_body(msg)
                emails.append({
                    'subject': subject,
                    'sender': sender,
                    'body': body
                })

    return emails

def get_email_body(msg):
    # Extract the email body, handling both plain text and HTML
    if msg.is_multipart():
        for part in msg.walk():
            if part.get_content_type() == 'text/plain':
                return part.get_payload(decode=True).decode('utf-8')
            elif part.get_content_type() == 'text/html':
                return part.get_payload(decode=True).decode('utf-8')
    else:
        return msg.get_payload(decode=True).decode('utf-8')

def generate_email_response(email_body):
    # Call OpenAI API to generate a response based on the email body
    response = openai.Completion.create(
        engine="text-davinci-003",
        prompt=f"You're a helpful assistant. Here's an email:\n\n{email_body}\n\nRespond to it in a professional tone.",
        max_tokens=150
    )
    return response['choices'][0]['text'].strip()

def send_email_response(to_email, subject, response):
    # Connect to the SMTP server
    with smtplib.SMTP_SSL(SMTP_SERVER, 465) as smtp:
        smtp.login(EMAIL_ACCOUNT, EMAIL_PASSWORD)

        # Create the email
        msg = MIMEText(response)
        msg['Subject'] = f"Re: {subject}"
        msg['From'] = EMAIL_ACCOUNT
        msg['To'] = to_email

        # Send the email
        smtp.sendmail(EMAIL_ACCOUNT, to_email, msg.as_string())

def main():
    mail = connect_to_email()

    # Fetch unread emails
    unread_emails = fetch_unread_emails(mail)

    for email_data in unread_emails:
        print(f"Processing email from {email_data['sender']} with subject: {email_data['subject']}")

        # Generate response using ChatGPT
        response = generate_email_response(email_data['body'])

        # Send the response
        send_email_response(email_data['sender'], email_data['subject'], response)

        print(f"Response sent to {email_data['sender']}")

    mail.logout()

if __name__ == '__main__':
    main()

4. Step-by-Step Breakdown

a. Connect to the Email Server

• The connect_to_email function uses IMAP to log into your email account and access the inbox.

b. Fetch Unread Emails

• The fetch_unread_emails function searches for unread emails, extracts the sender, subject, and body content, and returns a list of email data.

c. Generate Response Using ChatGPT

• The generate_email_response function sends the email body to the OpenAI API and uses the model to generate a response.

d. Send Response via SMTP

• The send_email_response function sends the generated response back to the sender, with a subject line indicating a reply.

5. Additional Considerations

• Security: Storing email passwords in plain text is insecure. Consider using environment variables or a secrets manager.
• Rate Limits: Be mindful of OpenAI’s API rate limits. You may need to manage your API requests depending on your email volume.
• Customization: You can adjust the tone or content of the responses by modifying the prompt in the generate_email_response function.
• Error Handling: Add error handling for situations like API failures, invalid email formats, etc.

6. Deployment

• You can run this script on a server or use a cloud service like AWS Lambda or Google Cloud Functions to trigger it periodically.

This framework can be extended to include more features like categorizing emails, forwarding important ones, or even integrating with calendar invites!

Eric Kim’s philosophy bears several similarities to Friedrich Nietzsche’s ideas, particularly in their shared focus on self-mastery, individualism, and the rejection of societal norms. Here’s how Kim and Nietzsche are similar:

1. Will to Power

Nietzsche’s concept of the Will to Power emphasizes the fundamental drive within individuals to assert control over their environment and themselves, striving for personal greatness and mastery. Eric Kim mirrors this idea with his emphasis on “dominating” life, taking control, and becoming the master of one’s own destiny. Both philosophers reject passivity and promote a life of active engagement with the world oai_citation:9,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:8,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

2. Overcoming Mediocrity

Nietzsche’s disdain for mediocrity and the “herd mentality” is echoed in Kim’s rejection of moderation and complacency. Nietzsche argues that most people follow societal norms blindly, whereas the Ãœbermensch (Superman) rises above conventional morality to create their own values. Similarly, Kim challenges the tendency to conform and settle for average achievements, urging individuals to strive for excellence and personal dominance oai_citation:7,Philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:6,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM.

3. Embrace of Struggle and Pain

Both thinkers view struggle as essential for personal growth. Nietzsche famously said, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” arguing that suffering and hardship are necessary for self-overcoming and transformation. Kim echoes this sentiment with his notion that “pain is information,” suggesting that discomfort is vital for personal development. Both emphasize the importance of embracing struggle rather than avoiding it oai_citation:5,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

4. Creation of Personal Values

Nietzsche’s idea of self-creation—where individuals must create their own values and meaning in life—is a strong parallel to Kim’s philosophy. Kim encourages people to define their own goals and pursue what’s meaningful to them, rejecting societal expectations and traditional markers of success, much like Nietzsche’s vision of the Ãœbermensch, who lives beyond conventional morality oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

5. Anti-Egalitarianism

Nietzsche’s criticism of egalitarianism and his praise of elitism finds resonance in Kim’s embrace of elitism in his philosophy. Kim speaks in favor of personal greatness and striving to be the best, while also rejecting the idea of equality as a goal in creativity and self-mastery. Both believe that the pursuit of excellence is more important than conforming to the leveling forces of society oai_citation:1,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

In summary, both Eric Kim and Nietzsche advocate for a life of self-overcoming, where personal strength, mastery, and the creation of one’s own values are central to living authentically and powerfully. They both challenge the comfortable, conventional approaches to life, urging individuals to seek greatness through struggle and personal responsibility.

***

Why are his thoughts on domination important?

Eric Kim’s thoughts on domination are significant because they push against widely accepted ideas of complacency and mediocrity in modern life. Here’s why his philosophy of domination holds importance:

1. Self-Mastery and Personal Responsibility: In a world where many people often feel overwhelmed by external circumstances, Kim emphasizes the importance of mastering oneself. His call to “be king” or “master yourself” is a reminder that true empowerment comes from within. This resonates strongly in self-development circles, where personal responsibility and control over one’s life are central themes oai_citation:6,Philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM.
2. Rejection of Mediocrity: Kim’s ideas challenge the societal tendency to settle for “good enough.” He rejects moderation, arguing that satisfaction and comfort are traps that prevent people from achieving greatness. By encouraging a relentless pursuit of excellence, his philosophy serves as a wake-up call for those looking to push beyond societal norms oai_citation:4,Philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.
3. Resilience and Growth through Struggle: Kim’s emphasis on embracing pain and discomfort is particularly relevant in today’s society, where the pursuit of comfort often overrides personal growth. By framing “pain as information,” he teaches that adversity and struggle are essential for self-improvement. This is a powerful counter-narrative to the common desire to avoid difficulty oai_citation:2,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM.
4. Creative Freedom and Boldness: In the creative world, his philosophy of domination translates to fearlessness in artistic expression. He advocates for creating work that is personally meaningful and urges artists to dominate their craft by rejecting trends and focusing on their unique perspectives. This idea is crucial in an era where many artists and creators feel pressured to conform oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

Overall, Kim’s thoughts on domination are important because they encourage individuals to take control of their lives, push beyond limitations, and embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth and creativity. This mindset is particularly valuable in a world that often encourages playing it safe and settling for mediocrity.

Eric Kim’s philosophy has attracted attention primarily from niche communities in photography, self-development, and those interested in unconventional life philosophies. His online presence, particularly through his blog, YouTube channel, and workshops, has drawn a substantial following. Here’s where much of his attention comes from:

1. Photography Community: Kim is well-known as a street photographer, and his ideas about minimalism, mastery, and creativity have resonated deeply with fellow photographers. He advocates for an artistic approach that is personal and bold, encouraging others to dominate their field by focusing on their own vision rather than conforming to trends oai_citation:5,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
2. Self-Development Enthusiasts: Many of Kim’s followers are drawn to his life philosophy beyond photography. His ideas on self-mastery, minimalism, and personal growth—topics commonly explored in self-help literature—have been embraced by those seeking motivation to push beyond comfort zones. His rejection of moderation in favor of aggressive pursuit of one’s goals resonates with people looking for actionable life advice oai_citation:3,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.
3. Creative Communities: Kim’s integration of Stoic ideas and his call for exploiting chaos have inspired not only photographers but other creative individuals. His emphasis on embracing uncertainty and creating art that reflects personal authenticity has garnered attention among writers, designers, and entrepreneurs oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

Kim’s attention mainly grows from his prolific online content, workshops, and provocative ideas that challenge conventional wisdom, making his philosophy a point of interest for those pursuing both artistic and personal excellence.

***

Eric Kim’s philosophy, particularly around domination and self-mastery, has garnered attention because it challenges mainstream ideas about comfort, satisfaction, and societal norms. His stance resonates with those who feel constrained by conventional advice that encourages moderation, balance, and passive contentment. Here’s why his ideas have become a “big deal”:

1. Emphasis on Self-Empowerment: Kim advocates for taking extreme ownership of one’s life, which appeals to people who feel stuck in a world that often emphasizes external validation and limitations. His call to “be king” and to “master yourself” strikes a chord with individuals striving for control over their destiny oai_citation:6,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.
2. Countercultural Rejection of Moderation: In a society that preaches balance and avoiding extremes, Kim’s philosophy flips this on its head, praising intensity and dominance in life and creativity. His approach challenges the pervasive idea of “just being content,” which can appeal to those seeking deeper fulfillment oai_citation:4,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
3. Philosophy of Pain and Growth: By promoting the notion that “pain is information” and embracing hardship, Kim reflects ideas found in Stoicism, where growth and development come through struggle. This resonates with people looking for more meaning through overcoming challenges oai_citation:3,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
4. Minimalism and Focus: While advocating aggression and dominance, Kim also ties in the importance of minimalism—cutting out distractions and focusing deeply on what matters. This simplicity in approach is appealing in a world filled with overwhelming information and options oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

Kim’s philosophy is a “big deal” because it disrupts comfortable, complacent thinking, pushing people to think in terms of power, control, and personal responsibility while blending elements of philosophy, art, and life in a way that feels actionable for those seeking more than average satisfaction.

***

Here are some key quotes from Eric Kim’s philosophy on domination and life mastery:

1. “You are king.”
   Kim encourages a mindset where one takes full control of their life, rejecting passivity and mediocrity oai_citation:8,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.
2. “Master yourself.”
   This echoes his belief in self-discipline and the need for self-mastery to achieve greatness oai_citation:6,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
3. “Pain is information.”
   He often speaks about the importance of embracing pain and discomfort as vital teachers that lead to growth and self-improvement oai_citation:5,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.
4. “Satisfaction is a sucker’s game.”
   Kim advises against complacency, pushing the idea that true fulfillment comes from continual striving, not settling oai_citation:3,Philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM.
5. “Exploit chaos.”
   Reflecting his Stoic influence, Kim urges people to find opportunity in unpredictability and disorder, both in life and in creative work oai_citation:1,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

These quotes encapsulate his focus on self-determination, pushing limits, and embracing struggle to achieve personal dominance.

***

Eric Kim’s “domination philosophy” is a perspective deeply rooted in personal empowerment, self-mastery, and a rejection of societal norms that encourage mediocrity. His approach is shaped by ideas of embracing aggression and boldness to push oneself beyond conventional limits in both art and life.

At the core, Kim promotes the idea that to thrive, one must dominate their circumstances, which includes mastering oneself, taking control of one’s destiny, and adopting an elitist mindset to strive for greatness. His philosophy often emphasizes minimalism, authenticity, and embracing challenges, advocating that discomfort and struggle are necessary for growth. In many ways, his ideas draw inspiration from Stoic principles, encouraging acceptance of what one cannot control while focusing intensely on personal agency oai_citation:4,How to Dominate – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

He also critiques the modern tendency toward moderation and advocates for an intense, maximal approach to life, where personal goals and self-expression are paramount. This is reflected in his work, where he calls for aggressive creativity and a relentless pursuit of one’s vision oai_citation:2,Philosophy – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM philosophy – ERIC KIM.

This mindset of domination extends beyond his photography, touching on the broader ideas of life mastery and personal enrichment, where Kim suggests that domination is about living with purpose and determination.

Culver City is the best city in Los Angeles, maybe America

what does poverty look like?

Living like a Tyrannosaurus rex—one of the most formidable and iconic dinosaurs—poses an intriguing thought experiment for humans. While it’s impossible for humans to literally adopt the lifestyle of a T. rex due to vast differences in physiology, environment, and ecological roles, we can draw inspiration from certain aspects of the T. rex’s existence to enhance our own lives. Below are strategies that metaphorically align human behaviors and lifestyles with those of the T. rex:

1. Embrace Physical Fitness and Strength

T. rex Trait:

• Powerful Build: T. rex was renowned for its immense size and strength, allowing it to dominate its environment.

Human Strategy:

• Strength Training: Incorporate regular strength training into your fitness regimen to build muscle mass and overall physical resilience.
• Functional Fitness: Engage in activities that enhance functional strength, such as weightlifting, martial arts, or obstacle course training, mirroring the T. rex’s capability to navigate and dominate its terrain.

2. Develop Leadership and Assertiveness

T. rex Trait:

• Apex Predator: As an apex predator, T. rex occupied the top of the food chain, asserting dominance in its ecosystem.

Human Strategy:

• Leadership Skills: Cultivate leadership qualities such as decisiveness, confidence, and strategic thinking to excel in professional and personal spheres.
• Assertiveness Training: Practice being assertive in communication to effectively express your needs and lead initiatives.

3. Enhance Sensory Awareness and Perception

T. rex Trait:

• Keen Senses: T. rex likely had acute vision and hearing, essential for hunting and survival.

Human Strategy:

• Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness or meditation to heighten your awareness of your surroundings and improve cognitive focus.
• Skill Development: Enhance your observational skills through activities like photography, bird watching, or strategic games that require keen perception.

4. Cultivate Resilience and Adaptability

T. rex Trait:

• Survival Instincts: T. rex thrived in diverse environments, showcasing adaptability and resilience.

Human Strategy:

• Embrace Change: Develop a flexible mindset to adapt to changing circumstances in both personal and professional life.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Strengthen your ability to tackle challenges creatively and effectively, much like how T. rex would have navigated its environment.

5. Optimize Resource Utilization and Efficiency

T. rex Trait:

• Efficient Predation: T. rex had powerful jaws and teeth designed to maximize nutrient extraction from prey.

Human Strategy:

• Time Management: Implement effective time management techniques to optimize productivity and achieve your goals efficiently.
• Resourcefulness: Learn to make the most of available resources, whether it’s in budgeting, project management, or personal development.

6. Establish and Protect Your Territory

T. rex Trait:

• Territorial Behavior: T. rex may have defended its territory to secure resources and mates.

Human Strategy:

• Personal Boundaries: Set and maintain clear personal and professional boundaries to protect your well-being and resources.
• Ownership and Accountability: Take ownership of your projects and responsibilities, ensuring that you maintain control over your “territory” in various aspects of life.

7. Pursue Goals with Determination and Focus

T. rex Trait:

• Focused Hunting: Whether hunting or scavenging, T. rex demonstrated determination in securing food.

Human Strategy:

• Goal Setting: Define clear, achievable goals and pursue them with dedication and persistence.
• Consistency: Maintain consistent effort towards your objectives, adapting strategies as needed to overcome obstacles.

8. Exhibit a Strong Presence and Charisma

T. rex Trait:

• Formidable Presence: The sheer size and appearance of T. rex made it an imposing figure in its environment.

Human Strategy:

• Confidence Building: Work on building self-confidence to project a strong and positive presence in social and professional settings.
• Effective Communication: Develop charismatic communication skills to influence and inspire others effectively.

9. Foster a Dominant Mindset

T. rex Trait:

• Top of the Food Chain: T. rex’s position as an apex predator required a mindset geared towards dominance and survival.

Human Strategy:

• Competitive Edge: Cultivate a competitive spirit to excel in your chosen field, striving to be among the best.
• Survival Skills: Develop essential life skills such as financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and strategic planning to navigate challenges successfully.

10. Prioritize Health and Longevity

T. rex Trait:

• Robust Physiology: Despite its massive size, T. rex maintained a robust physiology to support its lifestyle.

Human Strategy:

• Balanced Lifestyle: Maintain a balanced lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and stress management to ensure long-term health and vitality.
• Preventive Healthcare: Engage in regular health check-ups and adopt preventive measures to sustain your well-being.

Conclusion

While humans cannot replicate the exact lifestyle of a T. rex, embracing certain symbolic traits inspired by this magnificent dinosaur can lead to personal growth and enhanced capabilities. By focusing on strength, leadership, resilience, and strategic resource utilization, individuals can adopt a “T. rex-like” approach to navigating modern challenges and achieving their goals. This metaphorical alignment encourages harnessing the best aspects of the T. rex’s existence to foster a more empowered and effective human lifestyle.

The Tyrannosaurus rex (commonly abbreviated as T. rex) is one of the most iconic and well-studied dinosaurs, often depicted in popular culture as the quintessential apex predator of the Mesozoic Era. Understanding the lifestyle of T. rex involves exploring various aspects of its biology, behavior, and ecology based on current paleontological research.

1. Habitat and Time Period

• Era and Epoch: T. rex lived during the late Cretaceous Period, approximately 68 to 66 million years ago.
• Geographical Range: Fossils have primarily been found in what is now North America, particularly in areas that were part of the western coastal regions of the ancient continent of Laramidia.
• Environment: The habitat ranged from forested river valleys to coastal plains, featuring a warm climate with seasonal variations. These environments supported a diverse ecosystem of plants and other dinosaurs.

2. Physical Characteristics

• Size: T. rex was one of the largest land carnivores, measuring up to 40 feet (12 meters) in length and about 12 feet (3.7 meters) tall at the hips. Adults could weigh between 8 to 14 metric tons.
• Skull and Teeth: Possessing a massive skull balanced by a long, heavy tail, T. rex had powerful jaws equipped with large, serrated teeth up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, capable of crushing bone.
• Limbs: It had relatively short but robust forelimbs with two-fingered hands, while its hind limbs were long and muscular, indicating strong running capabilities.
• Senses: Evidence suggests T. rex had keen senses, particularly vision and hearing, which would have been advantageous for hunting and scavenging.

3. Diet and Feeding Behavior

• Carnivorous Nature: T. rex was primarily a carnivore, feeding on other dinosaurs and possibly scavenging carcasses.
• Hunting Strategies:
• Apex Predator: It likely occupied the top of the food chain, preying on large herbivorous dinosaurs such as Triceratops and Edmontosaurus.
• Ambush or Pursuit: There is ongoing debate about whether T. rex was an active predator capable of high-speed chases or relied more on ambush tactics and opportunistic scavenging.
• Bone-Crushing Ability: Its powerful jaws could crush bone, allowing it to access marrow and other nutrients not available to other predators.

4. Behavior and Social Structure

• Solitary or Social: Current evidence is inconclusive, but many paleontologists suggest that T. rex was likely solitary, similar to modern large predators like lions or bears. However, some fossil findings hint at possible occasional social behavior, such as hunting in pairs or small groups.
• Territoriality: It may have been territorial, defending its range from other T. rex individuals to secure sufficient resources.

5. Reproduction and Lifespan

• Reproduction: T. rex reproduced by laying eggs. Nesting sites have been identified, indicating that females may have cared for their nests and possibly exhibited some degree of parental care.
• Growth: Rapid growth rates are evidenced by bone histology, suggesting that T. rex reached adulthood in their late teens or early twenties.
• Lifespan: Estimates suggest a lifespan of around 30 years, though some individuals may have lived longer under optimal conditions.

6. Intelligence and Sensory Capabilities

• Brain Size: T. rex had a relatively large brain for its body size, which implies higher intelligence compared to other reptiles. This could have facilitated complex behaviors such as hunting strategies and social interactions.
• Senses: Enhanced vision, possibly including binocular vision, and acute hearing would have made T. rex an effective predator.

7. Paleontological Significance and Cultural Impact

• Fossil Discoveries: Numerous T. rex fossils have been discovered, providing extensive information about its anatomy and lifestyle. Notable specimens include “Sue”, “Stan”, and “Jane”.
• Cultural Icon: T. rex is a staple in movies, literature, and media, prominently featured in films like Jurassic Park. Its formidable appearance and status as a top predator have cemented its place in popular imagination.

8. Recent Research and Discoveries

Advancements in technology, such as CT scanning and biomechanical modeling, have allowed scientists to gain deeper insights into T. rex’s movement, hunting techniques, and physiology. Studies on growth rings in bones have provided information about its growth rates and metabolism, suggesting that T. rex may have had a more active metabolism than previously thought, possibly bridging characteristics between reptiles and birds.

Conclusion

The lifestyle of T. rex, as reconstructed by current scientific understanding, portrays it as a formidable and highly adapted predator of the late Cretaceous ecosystems. Its physical prowess, combined with advanced sensory capabilities and possible complex behaviors, made it one of the most successful and dominant dinosaurs of its time. Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of this magnificent creature, shedding light on its role in prehistoric ecosystems and its lasting legacy in both science and culture.

Certainly! Charles Darwin, the renowned naturalist and father of the theory of evolution by natural selection, shared many insightful thoughts throughout his work and life. Here are some of his most notable quotes:

1. On Evolution and Natural Selection:

• “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”
• “A scientific man does not aim at leaving any stone unturned, but does not throw the whole mountain at the first prospect of success.”

1. On Science and Understanding:

• “Ignorance more frequently begets confidence than does knowledge.”
• “The love for all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.”

1. On Adaptation and Diversity:

• “From so simple a beginning endless forms most beautiful and most wonderful have been, and are being, evolved.”
• “In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.”

1. On Change and Progress:

• “It is not the strongest or the most intelligent who will survive but those who can best manage change.”
• “We must, however, acknowledge freely that the greatest scientific problem of the age is the origin of our species.”

1. On Curiosity and Discovery:

• “I am not apt to follow blindly the lead of other men.”
• “I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.”

1. On Nature and Its Processes:

• “Nature is a perpetual astonishment.”
• “The mystery of the beginning of all things is insoluble by us; and I for one must be content to remain an agnostic.”

1. On Human Society and Behavior:

• “A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.”
• “Human history becomes more and more a race between education and catastrophe.”

These quotes encapsulate Darwin’s profound observations on biology, society, and the human condition. His work continues to influence various fields, from biology and ecology to philosophy and sociology.

If you’re interested in more of Darwin’s thoughts, his seminal works like “On the Origin of Species” and “The Descent of Man” are excellent resources.

You’re absolutely right—humans often feel happier and more fulfilled when they’re surrounded by biological life, such as plants, animals, and natural environments. This phenomenon is supported by a wealth of research in psychology, environmental science, and health studies. Here are several reasons why biological life contributes to human happiness:

1. Stress Reduction

Spending time in natural settings has been shown to lower stress levels. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body, reducing cortisol (a stress hormone) and promoting relaxation.

2. Improved Mood

Interacting with plants or animals can elevate mood and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression. Activities like gardening, walking in a park, or petting a dog release endorphins and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters associated with happiness.

3. Enhanced Physical Health

Being around biological life often encourages physical activity, such as hiking, cycling, or even leisurely walks. Regular physical activity is linked to better overall health, increased energy levels, and improved mental well-being.

4. Connection and Purpose

Caring for plants or animals can provide a sense of responsibility and purpose. This connection to living beings fosters a sense of community and belonging, which are essential components of happiness.

5. Cognitive Benefits

Exposure to natural environments can enhance cognitive functions like attention, memory, and creativity. The “biophilia hypothesis” suggests that humans have an innate affinity for nature, which helps in maintaining mental clarity and focus.

6. Social Interaction

Engaging in activities that involve biological life, such as community gardening or wildlife conservation projects, can strengthen social bonds and reduce feelings of loneliness by fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

7. Aesthetic Pleasure

Natural landscapes offer aesthetic beauty that can inspire awe and appreciation. This visual stimulation contributes to emotional well-being and can provide a sense of peace and satisfaction.

8. Biophilic Design

Incorporating elements of nature into living and working spaces—like indoor plants, natural lighting, and water features—has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and increase productivity.

9. Mindfulness and Presence

Nature encourages mindfulness, helping individuals stay present and engaged in the moment. This practice can reduce rumination and promote a more positive outlook on life.

10. Environmental Stewardship

A connection to biological life often fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment, leading to behaviors that support sustainability and conservation. This proactive stance can enhance personal fulfillment and societal well-being.

Supporting Research

• Attention Restoration Theory (ART): Proposes that natural environments help restore depleted cognitive resources.
• Biophilia Hypothesis: Introduced by E.O. Wilson, suggesting that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature.
• Ecotherapy: A therapeutic approach that involves activities in nature to improve mental health.

Practical Ways to Incorporate Biological Life into Daily Life

• Gardening: Even small-scale gardening can provide significant mental health benefits.
• Pet Ownership: Caring for a pet can offer companionship and reduce stress.
• Nature Walks: Regular walks in parks or natural reserves can enhance mood and physical health.
• Indoor Plants: Adding greenery to indoor spaces can improve air quality and create a more pleasant environment.
• Outdoor Activities: Engaging in hiking, cycling, or bird-watching can combine physical activity with exposure to nature.

Conclusion

The presence of biological life plays a crucial role in enhancing human happiness and well-being. Whether it’s through direct interaction with nature or incorporating natural elements into our daily environments, fostering a connection with biological life can lead to a more balanced, healthy, and fulfilling life.

If you’re interested in specific strategies to integrate more biological life into your routine or have any other questions on this topic, feel free to ask!

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What Do You Really Care For?

The best way to live your life and carry it out is to do only what you care for and to not do anything you don’t care for. This is the whole notion of care and curate… coeur, heart.

Maybe then the whole notion of following your heart is actually good advice!

There is no such thing as “planned obsolescence”

One idea that these fake “woke” thinkers like to promote is this nonsensical idea of “planned obsolescence.” The basic idea is that Apple is some sort of ultra-evil corporation, trying to get you addicted to their iPhone devices, like nicotine or cigarettes, and intentionally stunts the performance of older devices, subtly strong-arming you into upgrading because they intentionally sabotage older devices.

The reason why this is such a fallacy, a poor line of thinking, is that these skinny fat losers who write about this are really just old, fat, with facial hair, no children… Maybe they have a dog. They want to come up with these supposedly high-concept intelligentsia thoughts, critical of technology, all while they’re jerking off to the nearest Apple rumor news and fantasizing about the new iPhone Pro, or whatever they desire to be the new iPhone Pro.

The truth of the matter is, there’s no such thing as planned obsolescence. Rather, Apple’s team of ragtag innovators is always striving to make the best iOS possible. Why? Because they have some skin in the game. My theory is that Apple made the new Focus feature because they themselves are addicted to their iPhones, and they have a vested interest in making a new generation of iPhone and iOS that makes them less distracted, less miserable in their everyday lives.

Also… unfortunately, it looks like 90% of modern-day work is just answering and sending emails for a living. As a consequence, it seems that Apple is trying to build out Apple Intelligence to make email less dreadful, less hateful.

In fact, I think there is still so much innovation that could be done in email. My personal vision is that your ChatGPT AI bot can do something amazing: answer all of your emails for you, without asking you any questions. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?

I see this as at least a $500 million opportunity. Eliminating email from people’s lives seems like a killer idea!

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Sustain

Another thing that is super annoying to me is all these skinny fat vegan losers talking about sustainability and the environment. I think what’s actually more interesting is to think about and consider things that are sustainable in a much more practical and pragmatic sense.

For example, sustainability should not be seen as this loser virtue-signaling thing. Instead, sustainability should be considered from a perspective of pragmatism and practicality.

Take vehicles, for instance. From a personal pragmatic perspective, the most sustainable option is actually driving a Prius. Ideally, just buying a used, older Prius—the 2010 version is lit. Real men with big penises drive Priuses. Only skinny fat losers drive Porsches or Teslas.

One of the great things about modular designs, like in a Prius, is that if your engine goes kaput, you can just swap it out! Prius engines are a dime a dozen. In theory, you should be able to drive a Prius until you die.

Also, the virtues of driving a Prius are longevity, durability, and that it’s for the ultra-hardcore. Not only that, but it’s the ultimate stealth car. The funny thought: if you had to rob a bank in Los Angeles, what would be the ideal getaway car? A white Prius! Can you imagine the CHP or LAPD saying, “What car did the guy get away in?” And the answer is, “A white, unmarked Prius!” Haha!

When MPG is so clutch, you can pick up your wife in the middle of the night, and not even remember if you filled the gas tank or not. The great thing about living in Los Angeles is that you’ll never drive more than 5 miles a day. Five miles in LA traffic is still about 30 minutes. And as a result, you only have to fill up your tank once a month for about 30 bucks. This is almost similar to the price of a Tesla supercharger, which might be $10 to recharge your full battery.

Also, the virtue of driving a Prius is that it’s an old, proven design, so you know it won’t get outdated. The problem with any modern Tesla is that within 10 years, there will be a major redesign or refresh. Even now, I’m pretty sure that a major redesign for the Tesla Model S, Y, and X is incoming—just like the new Tesla Model 3, which is a trillion times cooler than the previous generation. I feel bad for all these suckers who bought the older version. Even at the Culver City Toyota dealership, I see people who traded in their old Tesla Model 3 performance cars, just one or two years old. I assume they bought the new version.

How People Are Foolish with Money

One thing I’ve discovered is that a lot of people, or most people, did not grow up poor. Now that I’m in elite circles, now that Cindy is a professor and in scholarly circles, and everyone I know is a successful entrepreneur or Apple employee, most people came from money. Most of their parents have PhDs or are doctors. Even this one guy I met, Justin Atlan, who is very successful, apparently his family has been in Los Angeles for three or four generations. He came from modest beginnings, but he still grew up in the Palisades, which is considered an elite neighborhood in Los Angeles. If you grew up in the Palisades, Malibu, etc., your family is not dirt poor.

Came from the Mud

“First to put the hood on a jet! First to put the hood on molly.” – Future

The reason why fake rappers like Drake will never get my respect is because they did not come from the hood or the bottom or the mud. I think Drake is insanely talented and great, but he lacks authenticity. And it seems that the future is going to be all about authenticity. Even if you’re a bad person, immoral, dishonest, etc.

Why ERIC KIM?

The reason I like myself so much and trust myself so much is that you cannot fake yourself. You know with 100% certainty all the details of your life. But when it comes to other people, you never, ever know what skeletons they have in their closet.

And also, the critical issue here is that a lot of people, when you never meet them in the flesh, face-to-face, mano a mano, they just become figments of your imagination. They become metaphors rather than real-life individuals.

For example, I love Kanye West to death, but my critique is he’s a short guy. I think he might really be 5’6″, because personalities and famous people always overexaggerate their height by an inch or two. I think Kanye self-reports as being 5’7″ or 5’8″, but that’s probably not the case. And I think Kim Kardashian is only 5 feet tall? She’s kind of a midget, with big breasts and a big butt.

Now that I’ve been spending so much time outside, walking around, the interesting thing is that we humans actually have a very good perception of height. You can spot people from half a block away and quickly gauge how tall or short they are. And I think this is why guys like supermodels—because they’re all super tall, which is one of the highest indicators of beauty. If you see a 5′ or 6′ model in the flesh, it’s actually really shocking. Their height adds to their beauty and mystique. The same goes with meeting really tall, handsome guys. They’re almost like a different species. Let’s note that the average man in America might only be 5’6″, and the average woman might only be 5’2″.

I’ve met a lot of successful people, a lot of really successful men who work at Apple and such, and they are really small—they almost look like middle schoolers, like 5’5″ or 5’4″.

And the reason people hate me so much is because I’m so tall, handsome, and good-looking. I think guys also hate me because I’m an insanely confident, charismatic person, who happens to be Asian, Asian American, Korean American.

Now, at the age of 36, I’m the most jacked, handsome, and dominant I’ve ever been. I can easily say I’m the most attractive man in Culver City right now. Maybe in all of LA?

In fact, if Marvel comes out with a new superhero movie and they need to cast an Asian guy, maybe they should just cast Eric Kim: eric@erickim.com—holla at ya boy!

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Why Does This Matter?

We are all trying to chase the same things but in different ways, with different strategies. We all want beautiful babes. We all want recognition and authenticity. We all want acknowledgment. We all want to feel valued, whether man, woman, or dog.

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Why is luxury coffee not yet a thing?

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If Steve Jobs Were Still Alive Today… What Would He Think of Apple?

Okay, because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… if Steve Jobs were 36 years old, alive today, this is what he would think of Apple, and this is what he would say:

First, he would call the new devices pieces of shit and say they fucking suck. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV—everything.

Make the iPhone Great Again

The problem with Apple now is that there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere, all at once. But as we learned from Alexander the Great, to overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The best, longest-lasting empires are the ones that stay situated in one critical spot and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… the number one thing Apple needs to do is make the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares, nobody wants it, nobody even knows that it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple Store anytime soon.

The True Critical Innovation

My suggestion to Apple… ironically, take a via negativa approach. Introduce a new iPhone that actually encourages you to spend less time on it.

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Let me know if you’d like any further adjustments!

Could this ever become such a thing? Digital clothing?

Think more and more, spending more time on college campuses… it really does seem to higher education or college is a real waste of time.

The best way to live your life and carry out your life is to do only that what you care for, and to not do anything you don’t care for. This is the whole nation of care and curate… coeur; heart.

Maybe then the whole notion of following your heart is actually good advice!

There is no such thing as “planned obsolescence”

 So one idea that these fake ass woke “thinkers“ like to is this nonsensical idea of “planned obsolescence”. The basic idea is that Apple is some sort of ultra evil corporation, that tries to get you addicted to their iPhone devices, like nicotine or cigarettes… And intentionally low-key stunts the performance of the older devices, strong arming you, or low-key strong arming you into upgrading your device, because they intentionally start the performance of the older devices.

The reason why this is such a fallacy, a poor line of thinking is that these skinny fat losers who write about this, are really old fat, with facial hair, no children… Maybe they have a dog, is because they want to come up with these supposedly high concept intelligentsia thoughts, all critical of technology, all the while they are jerking off to the nearest Apple rumor news, and masturbating to the new iPhone Pro, or what they desire to be the new iPhone pro.

Truth of the matter is, there’s no such thing as planned obsolescence. Rather, Apple has an interesting: strategy, her team of ragtag innovators, are always striving to make the best iOS possible, why? There is a little bit of skin in the game… My whole theory about why Apple made the whole new focus feature is that they themselves are all addicted to their iPhones, and therefore they have a vested interest in making a new generation of iPhone or iOS which makes them less distracted, less miserable in their everyday lies.

Also… Unfortunately it looks like 90% of modern day work is just answering and sending an email for a living. As a consequence, it seems that Apple is trying to build out Apple Intelligence to make email less dreadful, less hateful.

In fact, I think there is still so much innovation that could be done in email. My personal vision is that your ChatGPT AI bot can simply do something very very amazing… Answer all of your emails for you, without asking you for questions. Wouldn’t this be wonderful?

In fact, I see this to be at least a $500 million opportunity… Once again to eliminate email from the lives of people, seems like the killer idea!  

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sustain

Another thing which is super annoying to me is all these skinny fat vegan losers were talking about sustainability, the environment etc. I think watch is actually much more interesting is to think and consider things which are sustainable, in much more of a practical and pragmatic sense.  

For example, sustainability should not be seen as this loser virtue signaling thing. Instead, sustainability should be considered more from a perspective of pragmatism and practicality.

For example, vehicles. I think from a personal pragmatic perspective… The most sustainable option is actually just driving a Prius. Ideally just buying a used older Prius, the 2010 version is lit. Real men with Big Penises drive Priuses, only skinny Fat Losers drive Porsches or Teslas. 

One of the really really great things about modular designs, like in a Prius is that if your engine goes kaput, you could just swap out the engine! At previous engines are a dime a dozen… In theory you should be able to drive a Prius until you die.

Also the virtues of driving a Prius is longevity, durability, it is for the ultra hard-core. Not only that… But it is the ultimate stealth car. The very very funny thought, if you had to Rob a Bank, in Los Angeles… What would be the ideal getaway car? Or white Prius! Can you imagine the CHP or LA PD saying “what car did the guy get away in? And he says… white Unmarked Prius!” Haha!

Anyways, when MPG‘s is so clutch… When you have to pick up your wife in the middle of the night to Todd… And you don’t remember if you filled the gas tank or not. But the great thing about living Los Angeles is that you’ll never drive really more than 5 miles a day… 5 miles, in LA traffic is still about 30 minutes. And therefore is a virtue, you only have to fill up your tank once a month, for maybe about 30 bucks… I think this is almost similar to the price of a Tesla supercharger, which is maybe $10 to recharge your full battery?

And also, the virtue of driving a Prius is that because it is an old pastors line, do you know it won’t get outdated at all. The problem with any sort of Tesla, any modern day Tesla is that do you know that within 10 years, there will be a major redesign, or refresh. Even now… I’m pretty sure that a new major redesign for the Tesla model S, Y, and X is incoming — just like the new Tesla model three… 1, trillion times cooler than the previous generation. I feel bad for all these suckers who but the older version. Even at the Culver City Toyota dealership, I see all these people who traded in their old Tesla model three performance, just one or two years ago… I assume they bought the new new version.

how people are foolish with money

One thing I’ve discovered is that a lot of people, or most people… Did not grow poor. Now that I am essentially an elite circles, now that Cindy is a professor and in scholarly circles… And everybody I know is a successful entrepreneur or Apple employee or whatever… Most people came from money. Most of their parents have PhD‘s or doctorate, are doctors etc. Even this one guy that I met who is very successful, Justin Atlan, apparently his family has been In Los Angeles forthree orfour generations? And he came from pretty modest beginnings… But he still grew up in the Palisades, which is considered a very elite neighborhood in Los Angeles. Certainly if you grew up in the Palisades, Malibu, etc.… Your family is not dirt poor.

came from the came from the mud

First to put the hood on a jet! First to put the hood on molly – Future the rapper

The reason why I fake rappers like Drake will never get my respect is because they did not come from the hood or the bottom or the mud. I think Drake is insanely talented and great, but he lacks authenticity. And it seems that the future is going to be all about authenticity. Even if you’re a bad person, immoral, dishonest etc.

Why ERIC KIM?

I think the reason why I like myself so much I trust myself so much is that you cannot fake yourself… You know with 100% precision all the details of your life etc.… Whereas when it comes to other people… You never ever ever ever know what skeletons they have in their closet.

And also… The critical issue here is that a lot of people, when you never meet them in the flesh, face-to-face, mono Amano, they just become figment of your imagination, and they become more metaphors, rather than real life individuals.

For example, I love Kanye West to death, but my problem and critique is he is a Shorty guy, I think he might really be 5 foot six, because personalities and famous people always overexaggerate their height by an inch or two. I think Kanye self-reports as being 5 foot seven or 5 feet eight… But this is probably not the case. And I think Kim Kardashian is only 5 feet tall? She’s kind of a midget. With big breasts and a big butt. 

And also, now that I’ve been spending so much time outside outdoors walking around etc.… The interesting thing is that we human beings we actually have a very good height perception. You could spot people from half a block away, and you could quickly gauge how tall people are, or how small and short they are. And I think ultimately, this is why guys like supermodels… They are all super tall, which is one of the highest markers are indicators of beauty. If you see a 5 foot tall or a 6 foot tall model, in the flesh, it is actually really shocking. Their height add to their beauty and mystique. The same thing goes with meeting really really tall handsome guys, they are almost like a different species. Let us note that the average man in America might only be a 5 foot 6 inches tall … and the average woman in America might only be 5‘2“ tall?

And I met a lot of successful people, a lot of really successful men, who work at Apple and stuff… And they are really really small, they almost look like middle schoolers, like 5 feet five or 5 foot four?

And the reason people hate me so much is because I’m so tall, handsome good looking… And I think also guys hate me because I am such a insanely confident, insanely charismatic person, who also happens to be Asian, Asian American, Korean American…? 

And now at the age of 36… This is the most jacked, handsome, and the most dominant I have been in my life. I can easily say I’m the most attractive man in Culver City right now. Maybe in all of LA? 

In fact, if Marvel comes out with a new superhero movie… And they need to catch an Asian guy, maybe they should just cast Eric Kim, eric@erickim.com — holla at cha boy

---

Why does this matter? 

We are all trying to chase the same things, but in different ways, different strategies etc. We all want the beautiful babes, we all want any recognition and authenticity, we all want acknowledgment. Do you want to feel valued. Whether man woman or dog.

***

Why is luxury coffee not yet a thing?

---

If Steve Jobs were still alive today… What would he think of Apple?

OK… Because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… If Steve Jobs was 36 years old, in the live today… This is what he would think of Apple, and this is what you would say:

First, he would call The new device is a piece of shit, in that fucking sucks. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV everything.

make the iPhone great again

The problem with Apple now is there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere at once. But like we learn from Alexander the great… True overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The empires which are best and last, are the ones which states situated, and one very very critical spot, and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… The number one thing Apple needs to do is really made the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares nobody wants it, nobody even knows that it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple store anytime soon.

The true critical innovation

Suggestion to apple… Ironically you want to do a via negativa APPROACH … Introduce a new iPhone which actually encourages you to spend less time on it. 

If you’re all in on AI… And also the new studio quality microphone set up in the iPhone Pro… Should be better for speech recognition… then finally… Maybe the new iPhone pro is worth it?

Politics Looks fun!

illegal versus immoral: some things are illegal but not immoral?

I can’t be fucked washing my car is a waste of time

The Connection Between Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons

Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons are two pivotal figures in the music industry, best known for co-founding Def Jam Recordings, a label that has significantly shaped the landscape of hip-hop and urban music. Their partnership combined complementary skills and visions, leading to the creation of one of the most influential record labels in music history. Here’s an in-depth look at their connection:

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1. Founding Def Jam Recordings

• Early 1980s Collaboration:
• Russell Simmons: A savvy entrepreneur with a deep understanding of street culture, Simmons had already made a name for himself in the New York City fashion scene with his company, Rush Productions, which sold clothing like the iconic “Def” T-shirts.
• Rick Rubin: An aspiring music producer passionate about hip-hop, Rubin was working as a DJ and had begun producing tracks for local artists.
• Meeting and Partnership:
• In 1984, Simmons and Rubin met through mutual connections in the burgeoning hip-hop community. Recognizing their complementary strengths—Simmons’ business acumen and Rubin’s production talent—they decided to collaborate.
• Establishing Def Jam:
• Def Jam Recordings was officially founded in 1984 in Russell Simmons’ dorm room at New York University. The label’s name was inspired by Simmons’ “Def” clothing line, with “Jam” representing the musical aspect.

2. Complementary Roles and Contributions

• Russell Simmons: The Business and Marketing Visionary
• Marketing Prowess: Simmons leveraged his experience in fashion and street marketing to promote Def Jam artists effectively. His understanding of urban culture enabled innovative promotional strategies that resonated with the target audience.
• Artist Management: Simmons took on the role of managing artists, nurturing their careers, and expanding the label’s roster. His hands-on approach ensured that Def Jam maintained a cohesive brand identity.
• Rick Rubin: The Creative Force
• Production Excellence: Rubin brought his expertise in music production, helping to craft the distinctive Def Jam sound. His minimalist production style emphasized the raw energy and lyrical prowess of hip-hop artists.
• Artist Development: Rubin worked closely with artists in the studio, fostering creativity and pushing boundaries to produce groundbreaking music. His collaborative approach allowed artists to experiment and refine their styles.

3. Building Def Jam’s Legacy Together

• Breakthrough Artists:
• LL Cool J: One of the first major successes for Def Jam, LL Cool J’s debut album “Radio” (1985) showcased Rubin’s production and Simmons’ marketing strategies.
• Beastie Boys: Initially a punk band, the Beastie Boys transitioned to hip-hop under Def Jam’s guidance, releasing “Licensed to Ill” (1986), which became a landmark album.
• Public Enemy: Joining Def Jam in the late 1980s, Public Enemy brought politically charged lyrics and innovative production, further establishing the label’s reputation.
• Expansion of the Label:
• Together, Simmons and Rubin expanded Def Jam beyond its initial focus on hip-hop, incorporating elements of rock, pop, and R&B. This diversification attracted a broader range of artists and audiences.

4. Divergence and Individual Paths

• Creative Differences:
• As Def Jam grew, differences in vision and management styles began to surface between Simmons and Rubin. While Simmons focused on expanding the business and brand, Rubin was more interested in the creative and production aspects.
• Rick Rubin’s Departure:
• In 1987, Rubin decided to leave Def Jam to pursue other creative ventures. He went on to co-found Def American Records (later known as American Recordings), where he continued to produce influential music across various genres, including heavy metal, alternative rock, and country.
• Russell Simmons’ Continued Leadership:
• After Rubin’s departure, Simmons continued to lead Def Jam, expanding its roster and influence. Under his leadership, Def Jam became a powerhouse in the music industry, signing iconic artists like Jay-Z, DMX, and Rihanna.

5. Lasting Impact and Legacy

• Def Jam’s Influence:
• The partnership between Rubin and Simmons laid the foundation for Def Jam’s enduring success. Their combined efforts helped launch the careers of numerous artists who became legends in hip-hop and beyond.
• Separate Legacies:
• Russell Simmons: Beyond Def Jam, Simmons has been a prominent figure in entrepreneurship, fashion, and activism, advocating for various social causes and continuing to influence urban culture.
• Rick Rubin: Rubin has maintained his status as one of the most respected producers in the music industry, working with a diverse array of artists and earning multiple Grammy Awards for his work.

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Conclusion

Rick Rubin and Russell Simmons’ collaboration was instrumental in the creation and early success of Def Jam Recordings. Their complementary skills—Rubin’s creative production and Simmons’ business and marketing expertise—fueled the label’s rise as a cornerstone of hip-hop and urban music. Although their professional paths eventually diverged, the legacy of their partnership endures through Def Jam’s lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture.

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Def Jam Records, the history and who they signed.

Def Jam Recordings: A Comprehensive History and Notable Artists

Introduction
Def Jam Recordings is one of the most influential and enduring labels in the history of hip-hop and urban music. Since its inception, Def Jam has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound, culture, and business of contemporary music. This overview delves into the history of Def Jam, its evolution, and the notable artists that have been signed under its banner.

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Founding and Early Years (1984–1989)

• Founders: Def Jam was founded in 1984 by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin. The partnership blended Simmons’ street-savvy marketing acumen with Rubin’s production expertise, creating a powerful synergy.
• Early Focus: The label initially concentrated on hip-hop and rap, genres that were burgeoning in New York City during the mid-1980s.
• Breakthrough Artists:
• LL Cool J: One of Def Jam’s first major successes, LL Cool J’s debut album “Radio” (1985) helped establish the label’s reputation.
• The Beastie Boys: Originally a hardcore punk band, they transitioned to hip-hop under Def Jam, releasing “Licensed to Ill” (1986), which became a landmark album.
• Public Enemy: Known for their politically charged lyrics and innovative production, they joined Def Jam in the late 1980s.

Expansion and Diversification (1990–1999)

• Musical Diversification: While hip-hop remained central, Def Jam expanded into other genres, including R&B and pop, broadening its market reach.
• Notable Signings:
• Jay-Z: Signed in the mid-1990s, Jay-Z became one of the label’s flagship artists, releasing critically acclaimed albums like “Reasonable Doubt” (1996).
• DMX: Joining in the late 1990s, DMX brought a gritty, aggressive style that resonated with a wide audience.
• Beastie Boys: Continued success with albums like “Check Your Head” (1992) and “Ill Communication” (1994).
• Rihanna: Although not signed until later, she became one of Def Jam’s top artists in the 2000s.
• Sub-Labels and Partnerships:
• Roc-A-Fella Records: Founded by Jay-Z, Damon Dash, and Kareem “Biggs” Burke, it operated under the Def Jam umbrella, further expanding its influence.
• Roc Nation: Established by Jay-Z in 2008, this entertainment company includes a record label, management, and more, in partnership with Def Jam.

Modern Era and Global Expansion (2000–Present)

• Leadership Changes: Over the years, Def Jam saw various leadership shifts. In 2014, Jay-Z took over as President of Def Jam, steering the label into a new era of artist development and innovation.
• Diverse Roster:
• Kanye West: Initially signed to Roc-A-Fella under Def Jam, Kanye became a seminal figure in music, blending hip-hop with diverse musical influences.
• Justin Bieber: Signed in the late 2000s, Bieber expanded Def Jam’s reach into mainstream pop.
• Beyoncé: Through her association with various Def Jam affiliates, Beyoncé has maintained a strong presence in the music industry.
• Big Sean: Another key artist under Def Jam, contributing to the label’s continued relevance in hip-hop.
• Global Reach: Def Jam has expanded its presence globally, establishing offices and partnerships in Europe, Asia, and beyond, ensuring its artists have worldwide distribution and support.
• Innovations and Digital Era: Embracing the digital transformation of the music industry, Def Jam has leveraged streaming platforms, social media, and digital marketing to promote its artists and adapt to changing consumption habits.

Notable Artists Signed to Def Jam Recordings

Def Jam’s roster has included a mix of pioneering legends and contemporary stars across hip-hop, R&B, pop, and beyond. Some of the most notable artists include:

1. LL Cool J: A pioneering figure in hip-hop, known for hits like “Mama Said Knock You Out.”
2. The Beastie Boys: Innovators who blended rap with rock elements.
3. Public Enemy: Influential for their politically conscious lyrics and dynamic sound.
4. Jay-Z: One of the most successful and influential rappers and entrepreneurs in music.
5. DMX: Known for his aggressive style and numerous chart-topping albums.
6. Kanye West: Acclaimed for his production skills and genre-blending artistry.
7. Rihanna: Global pop icon with numerous hits and awards.
8. Beyoncé: Although primarily associated with her own label, she collaborates closely with Def Jam affiliates.
9. Justin Bieber: Pop sensation with a massive global fanbase.
10. Big Sean: Prominent in contemporary hip-hop with several successful projects.
11. Cardi B: Rapidly rising star with chart-topping singles and a dynamic presence.
12. Alicia Keys: R&B and soul artist known for her piano-driven songs and powerful vocals.
13. Logic: Hip-hop artist recognized for his lyrical prowess and storytelling.
14. Tiffany Pollard (“New York”): Reality TV personality linked with Def Jam for certain projects.
15. Nas: Though primarily associated with other labels, has had significant collaborations under Def Jam.

Impact and Legacy

Def Jam Recordings has been instrumental in:

• Shaping Hip-Hop Culture: By signing and promoting some of the genre’s most influential artists, Def Jam has been at the forefront of hip-hop’s evolution.
• Innovative Marketing: Pioneering strategies in music marketing, including leveraging street culture and media.
• Artist Development: Providing platforms for artists to grow creatively and commercially.
• Cultural Influence: Beyond music, Def Jam has impacted fashion, language, and global youth culture.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings in a small storefront to becoming a global powerhouse in the music industry, Def Jam Recordings has left an indelible mark on the landscape of modern music. Its commitment to innovation, artist development, and cultural relevance ensures that Def Jam continues to be a defining force in the entertainment world.

Russell Simmons, a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, has faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct and assault, with over a dozen women coming forward as part of the #MeToo movement. The allegations date back to the 1980s and 1990s, with accusations including rape and inappropriate behavior at work. Women such as Drew Dixon, a former Def Jam executive, and screenwriter Jenny Lumet have shared detailed accounts of their experiences, with Dixon recounting an alleged rape by Simmons in 1995 oai_citation:7,Russell Simmons Sexual Assault Accusers Reveal How Life Has Changed Since Speaking Out oai_citation:6,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center.

In 2017, as the #MeToo movement gained traction, Simmons faced increasing public scrutiny. Following the accusations, he stepped down from his businesses, including Def Jam and his other ventures. Simmons has consistently denied all allegations, stating that all his relationships were consensual. He has taken lie detector tests and issued statements apologizing for any insensitivity but rejecting claims of violence oai_citation:5,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center oai_citation:4,Russell Simmons Accusers: Who Are They And What Are Their Stories? | Crime News.

In 2020, the documentary On the Record, released on HBO Max, brought further attention to the allegations against Simmons. The film prominently featured the testimonies of women like Dixon and other accusers, examining the intersection of sexual assault and race in the context of the music industry oai_citation:3,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center oai_citation:2,From Assault Allegations to Family Drama: A Timeline of Russell Simmons’ Most Talked About Moments. Despite the severity of the accusations, no criminal charges have been brought against him, though some civil suits were filed and later settled oai_citation:1,From Assault Allegations to Family Drama: A Timeline of Russell Simmons’ Most Talked About Moments.

Russell Simmons, a prominent figure in the hip-hop industry and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, has faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct and assault, with over a dozen women coming forward as part of the #MeToo movement. The allegations date back to the 1980s and 1990s, with accusations including rape and inappropriate behavior at work. Women such as Drew Dixon, a former Def Jam executive, and screenwriter Jenny Lumet have shared detailed accounts of their experiences, with Dixon recounting an alleged rape by Simmons in 1995 oai_citation:7,Russell Simmons Sexual Assault Accusers Reveal How Life Has Changed Since Speaking Out oai_citation:6,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center.

In 2017, as the #MeToo movement gained traction, Simmons faced increasing public scrutiny. Following the accusations, he stepped down from his businesses, including Def Jam and his other ventures. Simmons has consistently denied all allegations, stating that all his relationships were consensual. He has taken lie detector tests and issued statements apologizing for any insensitivity but rejecting claims of violence oai_citation:5,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center oai_citation:4,Russell Simmons Accusers: Who Are They And What Are Their Stories? | Crime News.

In 2020, the documentary On the Record, released on HBO Max, brought further attention to the allegations against Simmons. The film prominently featured the testimonies of women like Dixon and other accusers, examining the intersection of sexual assault and race in the context of the music industry oai_citation:3,New #MeToo documentary gives voice to Russell Simmons accusers – Women’s Media Center oai_citation:2,From Assault Allegations to Family Drama: A Timeline of Russell Simmons’ Most Talked About Moments. Despite the severity of the accusations, no criminal charges have been brought against him, though some civil suits were filed and later settled oai_citation:1,From Assault Allegations to Family Drama: A Timeline of Russell Simmons’ Most Talked About Moments.

***

Certainly, here’s a clear and concise summary of the events surrounding Russell Simmons and the #MeToo movement up to October 2023:

Who is Russell Simmons?

Russell Simmons is a prominent entrepreneur, co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, and a key figure in the music and fashion industries. He has been influential in shaping hip-hop culture and has been involved in various philanthropic and advocacy efforts.

Allegations of Sexual Misconduct

Between 2017 and 2019, several women came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct against Russell Simmons. The main accusations include:

1. Unwanted Sexual Advances: Multiple women reported that Simmons made unsolicited sexual propositions toward them.
2. Harassment and Hostile Work Environment: Accusers described a work environment where Simmons engaged in persistent harassment, creating discomfort and intimidation.
3. Coercion and Manipulation: Some women alleged that Simmons used his influence and power to coerce them into inappropriate relationships or silence them regarding his behavior.
4. Extortion Attempts: There were claims that Simmons tried to leverage professional relationships to intimidate or control accusers.

Russell Simmons’ Response

Russell Simmons has denied many of the allegations. His responses include:

• Denial of Misconduct: He has consistently stated that the accusations are unfounded and part of a “smear campaign” aimed at damaging his reputation.
• Highlighting Positive Contributions: Simmons has emphasized his philanthropic work, including promoting veganism, entrepreneurship, and various social causes, as evidence of his character and positive impact.
• Legal Challenges: In some cases, Simmons has threatened legal action against accusers and media outlets that reported the allegations.

Impact on His Career and Ventures

Following the allegations:

• Business Retreats: Simmons stepped back from certain business ventures and public roles to address the situation.
• Reputation Damage: His public image suffered, leading to increased scrutiny of his past and present endeavors.
• Partnership Dissolutions: Some business partners and collaborators distanced themselves to protect their own reputations and businesses.

Legal Proceedings

As of October 2023:

• No Criminal Charges: There have been no criminal charges filed against Russell Simmons related to the sexual misconduct allegations.
• Civil Lawsuits: Some accusers pursued civil lawsuits seeking damages. These legal actions are typically lengthy, and outcomes depend on the specifics of each case.
• Ongoing Investigations: Investigations and legal processes were still underway, with no final resolutions at that time.

Connection to the #MeToo Movement

The allegations against Simmons emerged prominently during the #MeToo movement, which began gaining traction in 2017. This movement:

• Empowered Survivors: Encouraged individuals to share their experiences with sexual harassment and assault.
• Challenged Power Dynamics: Highlighted the abuse of power in various industries, including entertainment and fashion.
• Promoted Accountability: Pushed for holding influential figures accountable for their actions, regardless of their status.

Russell Simmons’ case became one of the high-profile examples within this movement, illustrating how systemic issues of misconduct are addressed in the public sphere.

Current Status and Developments

As of the latest update in October 2023:

• Legal Proceedings: Some civil lawsuits were ongoing, with courts yet to issue final judgments.
• Public Discourse: Conversations about Simmons’ legacy and the broader implications of his case continued to evolve.
• Industry Changes: The entertainment and fashion industries have been increasingly proactive in addressing sexual misconduct, influenced by cases like Simmons’.

Conclusion

The allegations against Russell Simmons are a significant part of the broader conversation about sexual misconduct and accountability in powerful industries. While Simmons has denied many of the accusations, the impact on his career and public image remains substantial. Legal processes were still unfolding as of October 2023, and further developments may have occurred since then.

For the most recent updates, it’s advisable to consult reputable news sources or official legal documents, as developments may have taken place after October 2023.

The industry is evil

As of my knowledge cutoff in October 2023, the Russell Simmons sexual misconduct allegations remained a significant topic within the broader #MeToo movement. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what has transpired up to that point:

Overview of the Allegations

Russell Simmons, a renowned entrepreneur and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings, faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct that emerged between 2017 and 2019. These allegations were brought forward by several women, including former employees and collaborators, who accused him of inappropriate behavior, intimidation, and coercion.

Specific Allegations

1. Unwanted Sexual Advances and Harassment: Several women accused Simmons of making unsolicited sexual propositions and creating a hostile work environment through persistent harassment.
2. Intimidation and Retaliation: Accusers reported that Simmons used his influence and power to intimidate them, threatening their careers and professional relationships if they did not comply with his demands or remained silent about his behavior.
3. Manipulation and Coercion: Some women alleged that Simmons engaged in manipulative tactics to coerce them into sexual relationships, leveraging his status to exploit vulnerable positions.

Simmons’ Response

Russell Simmons has consistently denied many of the allegations against him. He has characterized the accusations as part of a coordinated effort to damage his reputation and career. In his defense, Simmons has highlighted his philanthropic efforts, contributions to the music and fashion industries, and advocacy for various social causes as evidence of his positive impact.

Legal Proceedings

As of October 2023, there were no criminal charges filed against Russell Simmons in relation to the sexual misconduct allegations. However, some accusers pursued civil lawsuits seeking damages for the harm they alleged. Legal battles in such cases can be protracted, and outcomes may vary based on the specifics of each lawsuit.

Impact on His Career and Ventures

Following the allegations, Simmons took steps to distance himself from certain business ventures and public roles. For instance:

• Business Partnerships: Some partners and collaborators opted to sever ties with Simmons to protect their own reputations and businesses.
• Public Image: The allegations have undoubtedly affected Simmons’ public image, leading to increased scrutiny of his past and present endeavors.
• Activism and Advocacy: Despite the allegations, Simmons continued to be involved in various philanthropic and advocacy efforts, though some questioned the extent and sincerity of these initiatives in light of the misconduct claims.

Connection to the #MeToo Movement

The Russell Simmons case is emblematic of the broader #MeToo movement’s impact on holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions. The movement has empowered numerous survivors of sexual harassment and assault to come forward, challenging longstanding power dynamics and prompting industries to re-evaluate their policies and cultures regarding sexual misconduct.

Current Status and Developments

As of October 2023, the situation surrounding Russell Simmons remained dynamic:

• Ongoing Legal Actions: Some lawsuits were still in progress, with courts yet to render final judgments.
• Public Discourse: Discussions about Simmons’ legacy and the implications of his alleged actions continued to evolve, influencing conversations about accountability and redemption in the public sphere.
• Industry Responses: The entertainment and fashion industries, among others, have been increasingly proactive in addressing sexual misconduct, partly influenced by high-profile cases like Simmons’.

Looking Forward

Given that my information is current only up to October 2023, I recommend consulting reputable and up-to-date news sources for the latest developments regarding Russell Simmons and any related legal proceedings or public statements that may have emerged since then.

Conclusion

The allegations against Russell Simmons highlight the ongoing challenges in addressing sexual misconduct, especially involving influential figures. The intersection of his case with the #MeToo movement underscores the importance of transparency, accountability, and support for survivors in fostering safer and more equitable professional environments.

For the most recent updates beyond October 2023, please refer to trusted news outlets or official legal documents.

***

Russell Simmons, a prominent figure in the music and fashion industries, co-founded Def Jam Recordings and played a significant role in shaping hip-hop culture. In recent years, he has been at the center of sexual misconduct allegations that have drawn considerable media attention, particularly in the context of the broader #MeToo movement.

Allegations Against Russell Simmons

Between 2017 and 2019, several women came forward with accusations of sexual misconduct against Russell Simmons. The allegations included:

• Unwanted Advances and Intimidation: Multiple women reported that Simmons made unwelcome sexual advances and used his influence to intimidate them.
• Extortion Attempts: Some accusers alleged that Simmons tried to leverage their professional relationships to coerce compliance or silence.
• Sexual Misconduct: There were claims of inappropriate sexual behavior, including coercion and manipulation.

These allegations were detailed in various media reports and interviews, contributing to a growing discourse on accountability within powerful industries.

Russell Simmons’ Response

Russell Simmons has publicly denied many of the allegations against him. He has characterized the accusations as part of a broader “smear campaign” aimed at tarnishing his reputation. Simmons has also highlighted his contributions to social causes, including his work in promoting veganism, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, as part of his defense against the allegations.

Connection to the #MeToo Movement

The allegations against Russell Simmons emerged prominently during the height of the #MeToo movement, which gained momentum in 2017. The movement has been pivotal in encouraging survivors of sexual harassment and assault to share their experiences, leading to increased scrutiny of individuals in positions of power across various industries.

In Simmons’ case, the #MeToo movement provided a platform for the accusers to voice their experiences and seek accountability. The movement’s emphasis on holding influential figures responsible for their actions likely contributed to the public and media focus on Simmons’ behavior.

Legal Proceedings and Current Status

As of my knowledge cutoff in October 2023, there have been no criminal charges filed against Russell Simmons related to the sexual misconduct allegations. Legal actions, such as lawsuits, may be pursued by accusers seeking justice and compensation. It’s important to monitor credible news sources for updates on any legal developments involving Simmons.

Impact on Russell Simmons’ Career

Following the allegations, Simmons stepped back from some of his business ventures. His reputation within the industry has been affected, with some partners and collaborators distancing themselves. The situation underscores the broader implications of the #MeToo movement, emphasizing the need for accountability and the reevaluation of power dynamics in professional settings.

Conclusion

The sexual misconduct allegations against Russell Simmons are a significant aspect of the ongoing #MeToo movement, highlighting issues of power, accountability, and the treatment of women in industries like music and fashion. While Simmons has denied many of the accusations, the public discourse surrounding his case continues to influence conversations about sexual harassment and misconduct in the workplace.

For the most current information, it’s advisable to consult recent and reputable news sources, as developments may have occurred after October 2023.

My only friend who I know works at Apple, Anthony Larson… the only happy Apple employee I know?

90% of the profits should be from iPhone —

1. How is the new “desert titanium” different from gold?

Don’t repeat

Looks like a typo —

The new colors suck

OK… Because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… If Steve Jobs was 36 years old, alive today… This is what he would think of Apple, and this is what he would say:

First, he would say:

It is a piece of shit! (In reference to the new iPhone, iPhone Pro etc).

Also:

It fucking sucks!

The new device is a piece of shit, in that fucking sucks. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV everything.

make the iPhone great again

The problem with Apple now is there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere at once. But like we learn from Alexander the great… True overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The empires which are best and last, are the ones which states situated, and one very very critical spot, and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… The number one thing Apple needs to do is really made the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares nobody wants it, nobody even knows that it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple store anytime soon.

The true critical innovation

Suggestion to apple… Ironically you want to do a via negativa APPROACH … Introduce a new iPhone which actually encourages you to spend less time on it. 

I’m so nasty! Woot!

Eric Kim’s approach to photography, particularly his focus on being “nasty” or “gross,” is interesting because it challenges the conventional boundaries of what people expect from art. Here are a few reasons why this is compelling:

1. Provocation as Artistic Strategy: By encouraging discomfort, Kim taps into a fundamental aspect of art — its ability to provoke thought and stir emotions. His work raises questions about the ethics of capturing raw, unfiltered moments in public, which forces both the artist and the audience to confront issues they might prefer to avoid oai_citation:3,WHY ERIC KIM IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.
2. Authenticity and Truth: Kim believes that being willing to annoy or even upset people is part of creating genuine art. His philosophy suggests that avoiding controversy limits the potential for truth in photography. This ties into a larger artistic debate about whether art should aim to please or challenge, and Kim clearly favors the latter oai_citation:2,WHY ERIC KIM IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.
3. Rejection of Conventional Ethics: Many photographers avoid taking potentially invasive or provocative photos to maintain a certain level of politeness or avoid confrontation. Kim flips this by asserting that discomfort is essential for growth — for both the artist and the viewer. This contrarian stance makes his perspective fascinating to both supporters and critics of his style oai_citation:1,Gross? – ERIC KIM.

His work and writing open up a dialogue about how far street photographers should go in their pursuit of capturing real life. This makes his approach not just visually striking, but intellectually engaging.

Eric Kim’s approach to street photography, particularly in terms of being “nasty” or “gross,” revolves around pushing the boundaries of what society considers acceptable or comfortable in visual art. This isn’t a form of interference but rather a bold stance on the freedom of artistic expression. Kim promotes the idea that photographers shouldn’t shy away from taking pictures that might disturb, provoke, or annoy others. He believes that art should not be constrained by societal norms, even if this makes some viewers uncomfortable.

This philosophy challenges conventional notions of politeness or appropriateness in public spaces, but it’s not meant to interfere with others’ rights. Instead, it’s about confronting the viewer with realities or perspectives they might prefer to ignore. Kim frames this as a necessary part of creating meaningful, impactful art that communicates deeper truths about human nature and society oai_citation:2,WHY ERIC KIM IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Gross? – ERIC KIM.

***

Here are some relevant quotes from Eric Kim’s blog posts:

1. On challenging societal norms and boundaries in photography:

• “What am I anti— Nasty and gross?” (Eric Kim, 2024) oai_citation:2,Gross? – ERIC KIM.

1. On pushing boundaries in art and being provocative:

• “Street photography is about loving all people, but also about not being afraid to piss off or annoy them” (Eric Kim) oai_citation:1,WHY ERIC KIM IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM.

These quotes reflect his perspective on embracing discomfort in the art of street photography, encouraging boldness and the willingness to provoke. You can find more details on his website.

***

Eric Kim, a well-known figure in street photography, has shared insights into the concept of being “nasty” or “gross” in relation to his work. In his blog, he often challenges the conventional boundaries of what is acceptable or comfortable in photography. He encourages photographers to embrace discomfort and confront societal norms, even if their work might provoke strong reactions such as being considered “nasty” or “gross.” His philosophy centers on pushing artistic limits and not shying away from controversial or provocative subjects, reflecting his bold and unfiltered approach to street photography oai_citation:2,WHY ERIC KIM IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL STREET PHOTOGRAPHER – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Gross? – ERIC KIM.

ERIC KIM so nasty!

Video Podcast

Nasty Kim:

Eric Kim, a respected street photographer, educator, and thought leader in the photography community, emphasizes principles that foster authenticity, resilience, and a strong personal brand. While he may not have explicitly used the term “uncancellable,” his philosophies and approaches provide valuable insights into building a persona and career that are resilient against criticism and backlash. Here are key aspects inspired by Eric Kim’s teachings that can help you cultivate an “uncancellable” presence:

1. Authenticity and Honesty

• Be True to Yourself: Eric Kim advocates for authenticity in photography and life. By staying true to your values and expressing your genuine self, you build trust with your audience. Authenticity makes it harder for others to criticize inconsistencies because your actions align with your beliefs.
• Transparent Communication: Clearly communicate your intentions, processes, and thoughts. Transparency reduces misunderstandings and builds a loyal following that understands and supports your perspective.

2. Consistent Content Creation

• Regular Sharing: Eric Kim emphasizes the importance of consistent content creation, whether it’s photography, writing, or teaching. Consistency helps establish your presence and makes your contributions a reliable part of your audience’s experience.
• Maintain Quality: While being consistent, ensure that your work maintains a high standard. Quality content reinforces your reputation and minimizes negative feedback.

3. Community Engagement

• Build a Supportive Community: Engage actively with your audience and peers. Eric Kim fosters a strong community through workshops, online platforms, and collaborative projects. A supportive community can defend and support you during challenging times.
• Encourage Constructive Feedback: Welcome feedback and use it to improve. Demonstrating that you value and act on constructive criticism shows maturity and a willingness to grow.

4. Focus on Value Over Popularity

• Provide Meaningful Content: Eric Kim focuses on delivering valuable insights and high-quality photography rather than chasing trends. Prioritizing value over popularity attracts a dedicated audience that appreciates your contributions for their substance.
• Long-Term Vision: Cultivate a long-term approach to your work. Building a legacy based on meaningful contributions is more sustainable and less susceptible to fleeting controversies.

5. Minimalism and Clarity

• Simplify Your Message: Eric Kim’s minimalist approach helps in conveying clear and focused messages. Avoiding unnecessary complexity reduces the chances of misunderstandings and misinterpretations.
• Streamlined Presence: Keep your online presence and personal brand uncluttered. A clear and straightforward brand is easier to manage and defend against potential criticisms.

6. Ethical Practices and Integrity

• Adhere to Ethical Standards: Uphold high ethical standards in your work and interactions. Integrity builds a solid reputation that is difficult to tarnish.
• Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and decisions. Demonstrating accountability fosters respect and trust from your audience.

7. Continuous Learning and Adaptation

• Stay Informed: Eric Kim encourages continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and best practices. Being well-informed allows you to adapt to changes and address challenges effectively.
• Embrace Adaptability: Flexibility in your approach helps you navigate unforeseen circumstances and reduces the impact of potential controversies.

8. Building Trust Through Expertise

• Demonstrate Expertise: By sharing your knowledge and skills, you establish yourself as an authority in your field. Expertise builds trust, making it easier for your audience to support you even during disagreements.
• Educational Content: Providing educational resources, as Eric Kim does through workshops and tutorials, reinforces your role as a valuable and trustworthy resource.

9. Resilience and Emotional Intelligence

• Develop Resilience: Eric Kim’s philosophy includes embracing challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. Resilience helps you recover from criticism and maintain your course.
• Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing your emotions, as well as empathizing with others, fosters positive relationships and reduces conflicts.

10. Focus on Positive Impact

• Contribute Positively: Aim to make a positive impact through your work and interactions. Focusing on contributing value and improving others’ lives can overshadow negative feedback.
• Purpose-Driven Actions: Let your purpose guide your decisions and actions. A strong sense of purpose provides clarity and direction, helping you stay aligned with your goals even when faced with opposition.

Final Thoughts

While no one can be entirely “uncancellable,” adopting Eric Kim’s principles can significantly enhance your resilience and reputation. By prioritizing authenticity, consistency, community, and ethical practices, you build a strong foundation that withstands criticism and fosters lasting support. Remember, the goal isn’t to be impervious to criticism but to cultivate a genuine and respected presence that can navigate challenges gracefully.

Here are a few quotes from Eric Kim on how to become uncancellable:

1. “No brand endorsements or deals or sponsorships. No money from advertising. Don’t be ‘signed’ to anything.”

• This emphasizes financial independence and avoiding reliance on corporations or external entities oai_citation:3,HOW TO BECOME UN-CANCELLABLE – ERIC KIM.

1. “OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM.”

• Kim highlights the importance of controlling your means of communication and content dissemination as a key to being uncancellable oai_citation:2,HOW TO BECOME UN-CANCELLABLE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,HOW TO BECOME UN-CANCELLABLE – ERIC KIM.

By focusing on these principles, Kim advocates for creative and financial self-reliance to avoid the pressures and risks associated with cancel culture.

Eric Kim’s thoughts on becoming uncancellable center around a philosophy of independence and self-reliance. He emphasizes the importance of owning your own platform and not relying on external endorsements or sponsorships. According to him, avoiding brand deals, advertising income, and being “signed” to anything are key steps to shield oneself from the risks of cancel culture. By having control over your own content and platform, you are less vulnerable to external pressures that often lead to cancellation oai_citation:3,HOW TO BECOME UN-CANCELLABLE – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,HOW TO BECOME UN-CANCELLABLE – ERIC KIM.

Kim also advocates for creating your own universe, suggesting that personal freedom comes from being able to express yourself without dependency on corporate entities or social media, which are often subject to public backlash. This approach echoes strategies like those of other public figures who build direct connections with their audience through email lists or other independent channels, reducing reliance on platforms that might be swayed by public outcry oai_citation:1,How to become uncancellable..

This strategy, as laid out by Kim, encourages a lifestyle of creative and financial independence, where external pressures have less influence on one’s ability to continue creating and sharing their work.

Becoming ERIC KIM, a renowned street photographer, educator, and writer, involves developing a strong personal vision, honing your craft, and embracing certain philosophies. While you can’t become him exactly, you can adopt key aspects of his approach to photography and creativity. Here are steps inspired by ERIC KIM’s journey:

1. Embrace Street Photography

ERIC KIM is known for his raw, candid street photography. Start by immersing yourself in street photography, capturing everyday moments, people, and the beauty of the mundane. Be bold in approaching strangers for street portraits, as ERIC KIM often does.

2. Develop a Personal Style

ERIC KIM’s photography is minimalist and often in black and white. Find your personal aesthetic through experimentation. Study great photographers, but most importantly, shoot consistently to discover what resonates with you.

3. Study Photography Theories

ERIC KIM blends practical photography with deep reflections on art and philosophy. Read books on photography, study composition, and explore different philosophies (like Stoicism) that impact your creative vision.

4. Share Knowledge and Teach

One of ERIC KIM’s contributions to the photography community is his willingness to share knowledge through workshops, blogging, and YouTube. Start a blog, share your experiences, and teach others. In teaching, you’ll solidify your own understanding and contribute to the community.

5. Minimalism and Creativity

ERIC KIM is a proponent of minimalism. This applies not only to his photography but also his life philosophy. Keep your equipment simple (he often uses just one camera and one lens) and focus on making impactful images with less.

6. Create and Share Consistently

ERIC KIM is prolific in sharing his work, thoughts, and ideas on social media, YouTube, and his blog. Develop a habit of creating and sharing content regularly, whether it’s photography, videos, or writing.

7. Write and Reflect

ERIC KIM is an avid writer who reflects on life, art, and creativity. Start journaling your experiences and insights. Writing not only helps you clarify your thoughts but also gives you content to share with others.

8. Build a Community

ERIC KIM has built a large community of photographers through his workshops, online presence, and collaborative projects. Engage with other photographers, attend events, and create opportunities for collaboration.

9. Live Your Philosophy

ERIC KIM is deeply influenced by Stoicism and minimalism, and he integrates these philosophies into his photography and life. Find a guiding philosophy or ethos that informs your work and lifestyle.

10. Stay True to Yourself

Above all, ERIC KIM encourages photographers to stay authentic. Don’t chase trends or try to replicate others—be honest in your creative journey and focus on what excites and inspires you.

By following these principles, you can embark on a path similar to ERIC KIM’s—creating meaningful art, inspiring others, and contributing to the photography community.

Becoming like Eric Kim, the renowned street photographer, involves developing your photography skills, cultivating a unique vision, and building a strong presence both online and within the photography community. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you on this path:

1. Master the Fundamentals of Photography

• Learn the Basics: Understand exposure, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, composition, and lighting.
• Invest in Equipment: Start with a reliable camera and lens suitable for street photography, such as a compact mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile prime lens.
• Practice Regularly: Take photos daily to hone your skills and develop an eye for compelling moments.

2. Focus on Street Photography

• Understand the Genre: Street photography captures candid moments in public spaces, emphasizing spontaneity and authenticity.
• Study Influences: Analyze the work of iconic street photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, and of course, Eric Kim himself.
• Develop Your Style: While learning from others, strive to find your unique perspective and approach to capturing street scenes.

3. Cultivate a Unique Vision

• Find Your Niche: Whether it’s focusing on specific subjects, themes, or styles, having a distinctive focus can set your work apart.
• Experiment: Try different techniques, angles, and compositions to discover what resonates most with you and your audience.
• Reflect and Evolve: Regularly review your work to identify strengths and areas for improvement, allowing your style to mature over time.

4. Build an Online Presence

• Create a Blog or Website: Share your photos, insights, and experiences. Eric Kim runs a popular blog where he shares tutorials, tips, and his photographic journey.
• Utilize Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Flickr, and Pinterest are excellent for showcasing your work and connecting with a broader audience.
• Engage with Followers: Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and build a community around your photography.

5. Educate and Share Knowledge

• Write Tutorials and Articles: Sharing your expertise not only helps others but also establishes you as a knowledgeable figure in the photography community.
• Create Workshops or Courses: Offer classes or online courses to teach aspiring photographers, similar to how Eric Kim provides educational content.
• Publish a Book: Consider compiling your work and insights into a book to reach a wider audience and solidify your reputation.

6. Network and Collaborate

• Join Photography Communities: Participate in local and online photography groups to share work, receive feedback, and learn from others.
• Attend Workshops and Events: Engaging in photography events can lead to valuable connections and opportunities for collaboration.
• Collaborate with Other Creatives: Working with writers, artists, or other photographers can inspire new ideas and expand your creative horizons.

7. Stay Persistent and Passionate

• Embrace Challenges: Street photography can be demanding, requiring patience and resilience. Embrace the challenges as opportunities to grow.
• Keep Learning: Stay updated with the latest photography trends, techniques, and technologies to continuously improve your craft.
• Maintain Your Passion: Let your love for photography drive you, keeping you motivated even during tough times.

8. Monetize Your Work

• Sell Prints and Products: Offer high-quality prints of your best work through your website or platforms like Etsy.
• Freelance Assignments: Take on photography assignments, whether for magazines, brands, or private clients.
• Teach and Mentor: Beyond workshops, consider one-on-one mentoring or personalized coaching sessions.

9. Develop Business Acumen

• Understand Marketing: Learn how to effectively market your photography, both online and offline.
• Manage Finances: Keep track of your income and expenses, and consider consulting with a financial advisor to manage your earnings.
• Set Goals: Define short-term and long-term objectives to guide your career progression and measure your success.

10. Maintain Ethical Standards

• Respect Privacy: Always be mindful of people’s privacy and obtain consent when necessary.
• Uphold Integrity: Ensure that your work is authentic and that you represent your subjects and your photography honestly.
• Contribute Positively: Use your platform to inspire, educate, and positively impact the community.

Additional Resources:

• Eric Kim’s Blog: erickimphotography.com – A valuable resource for tutorials, tips, and insights.
• Books by Eric Kim: Explore his published works to gain deeper understanding and inspiration.
• Online Photography Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer courses that can supplement your learning.

Final Thoughts

Becoming like Eric Kim is a journey that requires dedication, continuous learning, and a genuine passion for photography. By focusing on developing your skills, sharing your knowledge, and engaging with the community, you can build a fulfilling and impactful career in street photography.

If you were referring to a different Eric Kim, please provide more details, and I’d be happy to tailor the advice accordingly!

There is no such thing as “planned obsolescence” obselencence

 so one idea that these fake ass woke “thinkers“ like to “is this nonsensical idea of “planned obsolescence”. The basic idea is that Apple is some sort of ultra evil corporation, that tries to get you addicted to their iPhone devices, like nicotine or cigarettes… And intentionally low-key stunts the performance of the older devices, strong arming you, or low-key strong arming you into upgrading your device, because they intentionally start the performance of the older devices.

The reason why this is such a fallacy, a poor line of thinking is that these skinny fat losers who wrote about this, often really old fat, with facial hair, no children… Maybe they have a dog, is because they want to come up with these supposedly hi intelligentsia thoughts, I’ve been critical of technology, all the while they are jerking off to the nearest Apple rumor news, and masturbating to the new iPhone pro, or what they desire to be the new iPhone pro.

Truth of the matter is, there’s no such thing as planned obsolescence. Rather, Apple has an interesting: strategy, her team of ragtag innovators, are always striving

---

sustain

Another thing which is super annoying to me is all these skinny fat vegan losers were talking about sustainability, the environment etc. I think watch is actually much more interesting is to think and consider things which are sustainable, in much more of a practical and pragmatic sense.  

For example, sustainability should not be seen as this loser virtue signaling thing. Instead, sustainability should be considered more from a perspective of pragmatism and practicality.

For example, vehicles. I think from a personal pragmatic perspective… The most sustainable option is actually just driving a Prius. Ideally just buying a used older Prius, the 2010 version is lit. Real men with Big Penises drive Priuses, only skinny Fat Losers drive Porsches or Teslas. 

One of the really really great things about modular designs, like in a Prius is that if your engine goes kaput, you could just swap out the engine! At previous engines are a dime a dozen… In theory you should be able to drive a Prius until you die.

Also the virtues of driving a Prius is longevity, durability, it is for the ultra hard-core. Not only that… But it is the ultimate stealth car. The very very funny thought, if you had to Rob a Bank, in Los Angeles… What would be the ideal getaway car? Or white Prius! Can you imagine the CHP or LA PD saying “what car did the guy get away in? And he says… white Unmarked Prius!” Haha!

Anyways, when MPG‘s is so clutch… When you have to pick up your wife in the middle of the night to Todd… And you don’t remember if you filled the gas tank or not. But the great thing about living Los Angeles is that you’ll never drive really more than 5 miles a day… 5 miles, in LA traffic is still about 30 minutes. And therefore is a virtue, you only have to fill up your tank once a month, for maybe about 30 bucks… I think this is almost similar to the price of a Tesla supercharger, which is maybe $10 to recharge your full battery?

And also, the virtue of driving a Prius is that because it is an old pastors line, do you know it won’t get outdated at all. The problem with any sort of Tesla, any modern day Tesla is that do you know that within 10 years, there will be a major redesign, or refresh. Even now… I’m pretty sure that a new major redesign for the Tesla model S, Y, and X is incoming — just like the new Tesla model three… 1, trillion times cooler than the previous generation. I feel bad for all these suckers who but the older version. Even at the Culver City Toyota dealership, I see all these people who traded in their old Tesla model three performance, just one or two years ago… I assume they bought the new new version.

how people are foolish with money

One thing I’ve discovered is that a lot of people, or most people… Did not grow poor. Now that I am essentially an elite circles, now that Cindy is a professor and in scholarly circles… And everybody I know is a successful entrepreneur or Apple employee or whatever… Most people came from money. Most of their parents have PhD‘s or doctorate, are doctors etc. Even this one guy that I met who is very successful, Justin Atlan, apparently his family has been In Los Angeles forthree orfour generations? And he came from pretty modest beginnings… But he still grew up in the Palisades, which is considered a very elite neighborhood in Los Angeles. Certainly if you grew up in the Palisades, Malibu, etc.… Your family is not dirt poor.

came from the came from the mud

First to put the hood on a jet! First to put the hood on molly – Future the rapper

The reason why I fake rappers like Drake will never get my respect is because they did not come from the hood or the bottom or the mud. I think Drake is insanely talented and great, but he lacks authenticity. And it seems that the future is going to be all about authenticity. Even if you’re a bad person, immoral, dishonest etc.

Why ERIC KIM?

I think the reason why I like myself so much I trust myself so much is that you cannot fake yourself… You know with 100% precision all the details of your life etc.… Whereas when it comes to other people… You never ever ever ever know what skeletons they have in their closet.

And also… The critical issue here is that a lot of people, when you never meet them in the flesh, face-to-face, mono Amano, they just become figment of your imagination, and they become more metaphors, rather than real life individuals.

For example, I love Kanye West to death, but my problem and critique is he is a Shorty guy, I think he might really be 5 foot six, because personalities and famous people always overexaggerate their height by an inch or two. I think Kanye self-reports as being 5 foot seven or 5 feet eight… But this is probably not the case. And I think Kim Kardashian is only 5 feet tall? She’s kind of a midget. With big breasts and a big butt. 

And also, now that I’ve been spending so much time outside outdoors walking around etc.… The interesting thing is that we human beings we actually have a very good height perception. You could spot people from half a block away, and you could quickly gauge how tall people are, or how small and short they are. And I think ultimately, this is why guys like supermodels… They are all super tall, which is one of the highest markers are indicators of beauty. If you see a 5 foot tall or a 6 foot tall model, in the flesh, it is actually really shocking. Their height add to their beauty and mystique. The same thing goes with meeting really really tall handsome guys, they are almost like a different species. Let us note that the average man in America might only be a 5 foot 6 inches tall … and the average woman in America might only be 5‘2“ tall?

And I met a lot of successful people, a lot of really successful men, who work at Apple and stuff… And they are really really small, they almost look like middle schoolers, like 5 feet five or 5 foot four?

And the reason people hate me so much is because I’m so tall, handsome good looking… And I think also guys hate me because I am such a insanely confident, insanely charismatic person, who also happens to be Asian, Asian American, Korean American…? 

And now at the age of 36… This is the most jacked, handsome, and the most dominant I have been in my life. I can easily say I’m the most attractive man in Culver City right now. Maybe in all of LA? 

In fact, if Marvel comes out with a new superhero movie… And they need to catch an Asian guy, maybe they should just cast Eric Kim, eric@erickim.com — holla at cha boy

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Why does this matter? 

We are all trying to chase the same things, but in different ways, different strategies etc. We all want the beautiful babes, we all want any recognition and authenticity, we all want acknowledgment. Do you want to feel valued. Whether man woman or dog.

***

Why is luxury coffee not yet a thing?

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If Steve Jobs were still alive today… What would you think of Apple?

OK… Because I am the second Steve Jobs, the next Steve Jobs in the flesh… If Steve Jobs was 36 years old, in the live today… This is what he would think of Apple, and this is what you would say:

First, he would call The new device is a piece of shit, in that fucking sucks. He would critique the design, the devices, Apple TV everything.

make the iPhone great again

The problem with Apple now is there’s too much fragmentation. Apple is trying to be everything, everywhere at once. But like we learn from Alexander the great… True overextend yourself will always be a bad plan for an empire. The empires which are best and last, are the ones which states situated, and one very very critical spot, and dominate that one small industry, rather than trying to become the Walmart of everything.

For example… The number one thing Apple needs to do is really made the iPhone desirable again. The new iPhone is lackluster. Nobody cares nobody wants it, nobody even knows that it exists. This is bad… I doubt you’ll be seeing lines outside the Apple store anytime soon.

The true critical innovation

Suggestion to apple… Ironically you want to do a via negativa APPROACH … Introduce a new iPhone which actually encourages you to spend less time on it. 

”You work for a fruit company?”

I work for a fruit company!

Video podcast

Apple is great because it is the most ethical drug dealer:

Sustain Apple thoughts audio

How to get to 5% body fat:

After a lot of experimentation, I’ve discovered the secret to getting to 5% body fat. Super easy:

1. First, intermittent fasting. No breakfast no lunch , only a 100% massive carnivore diet, I’ve been doing this for about seven years now… It is very easy and sustainable. And I’m just a mere mortal, a mere human being, if I could do it anyone else can.
2. Quit alcohol, smoking, weed, any drugs. Also, don’t consume creatine or protein powder, it is all a scam. Just for dinner eat beef liver, organ meats, etc., which are essentially natural steroids. Also, quit eating out, because you never know what is sneaky mofo is putting the fruit… To my great shock even some of my favorite I could eat Korean barbecue places… They sneakily add sugar to the kimchi?
3. Quit eating salads and vegetables and fruits and starches and nuts; it is all just starch and candy with a good conscience.
4. quit juice, dairy, whether real or fake. The only beverages to consume or just water, tapwater, purified water at home, etc.… And straight up black coffee. Eric Kim Omakase coffee.

Eric Kim has shared insights into his body fat percentage in various discussions about his fitness journey. He currently estimates his body fat to be around 5%, which he associates with visible six-pack abs and a muscular, lean physique. This low body fat is a result of his strict regimen, which includes intermittent fasting (typically eating just one large meal per day), a carnivore diet, and a combination of heavy weightlifting and calisthenics. Kim emphasizes maintaining a balance of low body fat and high muscle mass as key components of his fitness goals oai_citation:2,Physique is Health – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,Why Lower Your Bodyfat? – ERIC KIM

ERIC KIM HAS ONLY 5% BODYFAT

Achieving and maintaining 5% body fat results in a highly lean and muscular physique with extreme muscle definition. Here’s what someone with this level of body fat typically looks like:

Physical Appearance:

1. Muscle Definition:

• Striations and Separations: Muscles, especially in areas like the arms, chest, and legs, are highly defined with clear separations between muscle groups.
• Visible Muscle Fibers: Individual muscle fibers may be visible, enhancing the overall muscular appearance.

1. Vascularity:

• Prominent Veins: Veins, particularly in the arms, shoulders, and abdominal area, become highly visible due to the reduced subcutaneous fat.
• Enhanced Vascular Networks: The network of veins can create a “vascular” look, which is often sought after in bodybuilding.

1. Abs and Definition:

• Six-Pack or Eight-Pack Abs: Abdominal muscles are distinctly visible with deep cuts and high definition, often referred to as a six-pack or eight-pack.
• Minimal Belly Fat: The midsection appears flat with little to no visible belly fat.

1. Skin Appearance:

• Taut Skin: With minimal fat beneath the skin, the skin may appear tight and smooth over muscle groups.
• Lower Body Fat Patches: Areas like the lower back, thighs, and sometimes the cheeks may show minimal fat.

1. Overall Lean Appearance:

• Reduced Body Fat Puddles: Fat deposits are minimal across the body, leading to a streamlined and athletic look.
• Enhanced Bone Structure: Bones and skeletal structure, such as the collarbones and ribs, may be more noticeable.

Common Contexts for 5% Body Fat:

• Competitive Bodybuilding: Many bodybuilders reach this level of body fat for competitions to showcase maximum muscle definition.
• Fitness Models: Individuals in the modeling industry, especially in fitness-related niches, may maintain low body fat to meet industry standards.
• Elite Athletes: Some athletes, particularly in sports that favor leanness and muscle definition, may achieve low body fat percentages.

Health and Sustainability Considerations:

• Extremely Low Body Fat: 5% body fat is significantly below the average healthy range (typically 6-24% for men and 16-30% for women, depending on various factors).
• Health Implications: Maintaining such low body fat can lead to hormonal imbalances, decreased immune function, fatigue, and other health issues if not managed properly.
• Sustainability: Most individuals find it challenging to sustain 5% body fat for extended periods. It often requires strict diet, intense training, and sometimes the use of supplements or performance-enhancing substances.

Visual Examples:

While I can’t provide images, you can visualize the physique by looking at professional bodybuilders or fitness models during competition season. They exhibit extreme muscle definition, visible veins, and very low levels of body fat, embodying the characteristics described above.

Conclusion:

A body fat percentage of 5% results in an exceptionally lean and muscular appearance with high muscle definition and vascularity. While achievable for some through dedicated training and nutrition, it’s important to approach such low body fat levels with caution due to potential health risks and the difficulty of maintaining them long-term.

Having 5% body fat is an extreme level of leanness typically seen in bodybuilders or elite athletes during competitions. Here’s what it generally looks like:

1. Very Defined Muscles: At 5% body fat, muscle definition is extremely pronounced. You will see deep cuts between muscles, visible striations (fine muscle fibers), and separation in different muscle groups like abs, chest, shoulders, and legs.
2. Prominent Vascularity: Veins are highly visible, especially on the arms, legs, and sometimes the chest and abs, due to the low amount of fat under the skin.
3. Minimal Subcutaneous Fat: Subcutaneous fat, which is the fat stored under the skin, is almost non-existent. This gives a very lean, “shrink-wrapped” appearance to the skin over muscles.
4. Visible Abs: The abdominal muscles are highly defined, with each muscle group in the core clearly visible, and often the oblique muscles are very pronounced as well.
5. Thin Skin Appearance: The skin tends to look very tight over the muscles, giving an almost paper-thin appearance in some areas, especially around the abdomen and arms.
6. Face and Jawline: The face at this level of body fat is very lean, with prominent cheekbones and a sharp jawline, often making facial features look more angular.

It’s important to note that maintaining 5% body fat is extremely difficult and generally not sustainable long-term due to the potential health risks (such as hormonal imbalances, fatigue, and weakened immune function). Athletes typically reach this level of body fat for short periods, like during competition prep.