Being 1% Better

As imperfect humans,  we can all improve, become better, and find a more enlightened way to live our lives. But do we spend the time or even the inclination to do so? Do we try to discern not only the world around us but what is within us? Some say that the time period that we live in is known as the Information Age in which human history is characterized by the shift from industrial production to one based on information and computerization. But with this ease of access to information, we are experiencing an Age of Distractions where we lose precious time on things that may not really matter. We are not suggesting that there is not a place for social media or video games. However, in 2022, the average Internet user spent 147 minutes a day (almost 2 1/2 hours) on social media. This statistic does not include video games, TV, movies, and so on. Globally, the average technology user spends six and a half hours per day looking at a screen (Howarth, 2023). Think about your time usage. How often have you decided to watch five minutes of videos that turned into one or even five hours?

REMEMBER:

One of the acts of discernment necessary in life is the choice of our time and the choice of media.

Good, Better, Best

Elder Dallin H. Oaks' talk on "Good, Better, Best" offers valuable insights into the principles of prioritization, goal setting, value-based decision-making, and continuous improvement. These principles can be applied to the concept of becoming 1% better every day by helping individuals make choices that lead to personal growth, the achievement of goals, and the optimal use of their time and resources.

You may have heard about the British cycling team that made a 1% improvement in a host of tiny areas which ultimately led to five riders winning the Tour de France. Sir Bradley Wiggins won the Tour de France in addition to several World and Olympic championships in both the track and the road cycling events. As of this writing, he is the only rider to have won championships in both. What made the difference? The British cycling team chose the best uses of their time and made consistent efforts to improve, no matter how small the increments. Their efforts lead to exceptional outcomes and demonstrate that choosing the best choice, even in small amounts can result in extraordinary experiences in various aspects of life.

A study of the humanities does so many different things to improve the individual. One of these benefits is to help individuals discern that which is beautiful, that which is truthful, and that which is good. This course will examine all of these areas beginning with the creative process itself next week. The importance of this is to recognize, among other things, how artists follow the process by which God created the heavens and the earth. 

Watch the following video from Elder Oaks.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks' talk on "Good, Better, Best" offers valuable insights into the principles of prioritization, goal setting, value-based decision-making, and continuous improvement. These principles can be applied to the concept of becoming 1% better every day by helping individuals make choices that lead to personal growth, the achievement of goals, and the optimal use of their time and resources.

A study of the humanities does so many different things to improve the individual. One of these benefits is to help individuals discern that which is beautiful, that which is truthful, and that which is good. Artists discover new creative possibilities and self-awareness through their artistic journeys, while audiences engage in discernment and interpretation, leading to a deeper appreciation of art's significance and impact. These elements collectively contribute to the profound role of the arts in personal and cultural exploration and expression. This course will examine all of these areas beginning with the creative process itself next week. The importance of this is to recognize, among other things, how artists follow the process by which God created the heavens and the earth.