Joseph's "Just My Thoughts"

Tesla earns revenue through car sales, but its real profits come from other sources. Although Hyundai-Kia Motors sells more cars annually than Tesla, it does not have the same profit structure, which is unique to Tesla. Tesla capitalizes on environmental assets by selling carbon credits each year. While the company experiences overall losses in car sales, the sale of these carbon credits results in surplus income, positively affecting its stock price. Traditional automakers contribute to Tesla’s profitability by purchasing cars and paying fines for carbon emissions. This dynamic is also a key reason why Tesla establishes operations in regions with strict pollution regulations. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

There are two types of businesses in this world when approached through the value of time and divided by the kinds of business: a business that requires discounting future value and a business that needs a surcharge. The bundle discount is a “future value discount business,” while the loan business is a “future value premium business.” Currently, it is unnecessary, but a bundle of sales is a business that offers customers incentives called “discounts” when they buy what they want in advance. The principal is not returned now in the loan business but must be returned in the future, providing the present incentive as a “delay repayment” in advance. Future discounts and surcharges can exist simultaneously in a business or a product; some enterprises will be ruined by mixing them if they change positions. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

As the chef gained fame through broadcasting, restaurant profits actually fell. One would expect higher profits with increased fame; yet, the opposite occurred. The restaurant’s original profit model relied on multi-course meals, but the broadcasts focused on just one or two popular dishes. While customer numbers surged, the average price per order decreased. Additionally, costs associated with running a restaurant have risen due to the influx of patrons. The influence of social media is leading to an increasing number of celebrities; yet, their true feelings can be quite complex. Achieving fame can be surprisingly detrimental. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

A newborn baby instinctively sucks its mother’s milk for survival, regardless of whether it learns this behavior. Chewing is also instinctual. The product that aligns with this chewing instinct is “gum.” While it involves chewing, it doesn’t equate to eating. Producing gum is a simple way to generate profit, given its common and low-cost nature. Therefore, the price of gum reflects the cost of chewing, differing from the prices of drinks and food. Since these items are consumed together, they exist in separate markets. The defining factor that separates these markets is “price.” Even if the products are similar, they operate within entirely different markets. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

There are two key meanings in the world: abstract meaning and conceptual meaning. Abstract meaning relates to values and philosophy, while conceptual meaning pertains to methodology. A successful businessman effectively understands abstract meaning in a conceptual context. Some businessmen struggle to grasp abstract meaning, whereas others have difficulty with conceptual meaning. It is essential to enhance understanding by collaborating with external experts, regardless of whether it involves developing internal organizations. Businessmen should excel at creating both abstract and conceptual representations. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

In business, a “transaction” is essential. This transaction focuses on addressing human needs. To fulfill these needs, one must choose methods that align with one’s moral values while also recognizing the limitations in addressing them. Therefore, businesses should satisfy these needs within the bounds of morality. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

In some cases, US real estate agents suggest that homeowners bake bread before potential buyers arrive for a showing. For many Americans, the aroma of fresh bread evokes a sense of family value. When the scent permeates the home, it creates an impression of a joyful household. Real estate brokers aren’t merely selling properties; they are in the business of selling “family love.” Their focus is on conveying “meanings” rather than selling mere products. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Can we sell pesticides to the Maasai? In Maasai culture, flies represent wealth. Ranching and livestock inherently attract flies. If someone arrives and removes the flies, there is no Maasai to welcome them. The focus of the business is not on selling products but on conveying “meanings.” - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

A good manager needs to grasp human needs before they can act virtuously. Focusing on morality without addressing desires leads to an authoritarian organization. Authoritarian structures are detrimental because they stifle individual spontaneity. Organizations that suppress this spontaneity face excessive costs and are likely to fall behind in competition. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Humans and the world they inhabit are intricate. We build relationships with one another, rooted in unspoken agreements that reflect sentiments like trust and affection. When hostility arises, I begin to question the underlying implicit agreements. Someone else has a connection with me while being oblivious to my expectations. After experiencing emotional pain due to arguments, we often shift from these unspoken understandings to explicit communication, such as verbal conversations. Still, by then, it may be too late to heal the rift. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Humans understand the notion of “expectation time.” It’s crucial to confront the issue that is tacitly accepted. This tacit acceptance becomes problematic regardless of whether the “expectation time” is brief or lengthy. For instance, if a meal takes five hours, something must be amiss. Conversely, if a haircut lasts just one minute, people might suspect dishonesty. Effective communication hinges on precise expression, but it is equally essential to manage expectation time appropriately. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

The reason pencils can be writing instruments is due to pencil lead. The material used for pencil lead is graphite. The graphite element is carbon (C), and four carbon atoms are combined. One carbon atom can have four bonds and can combine with another element. Diamond is similar to graphite, with four carbon atoms. However, diamonds have four carbon bonds that create a strong covalent bond with other carbon atoms, while graphite has only one weak bond. We can write or draw with a pencil because of this loose combination. When you apply pressure to the pencil with your finger, this weak bond in graphite breaks, leaving some of the crystals damaged. Don’t view it merely as a pencil; it’s a diamond’s cousin. The degree of consanguinity is very, very close. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Experience should not serve as a constraint that confines individuals to their past; instead, it should act as a foundation for future endeavors. While successful experiences can instill confidence, they may simultaneously restrict one’s thoughts and actions, leading to potential lapses in judgment. It is noteworthy that my achievements may not have solely stemmed from my abilities but could have been attributed to fortuitous circumstances, often arising from the missteps of others. A valuable experience should not foster arrogance or dismiss the fallibility of unwavering self-assurance and disregard for alternative perspectives. To mitigate the risk of failure, one must cultivate humility. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Some leaders find relief only when they dominate the mind, while others serve as limbs. They seek to facilitate threats and collaboration with others to bolster their sense of security. Some of them resort to “gaslighting,” manipulating circumstances to create doubt and maintain control. They view their micromanagement as a notable strength, caring for even the most minor details. Working alongside such a person can reduce even the most capable individuals to feeling foolish and diminish their self-esteem. Unbeknownst to them, those around them are suffocating. The desire to conform is often mistaken for loyalty. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

For leadership to be good, one must always grow up with self-objectivity and self-verification. It refers to admitting when something is wrong immediately and changing direction and attitude. However, this meta-recognition property presents a significant obstacle to leadership. People tend to follow a leader who sides with them rather than one who possesses exemplary character and ability. The more reasonable the leaders are, the easier it is to overlook this phenomenon, and the more likely they are to make enemies in the process of making sensible and correct decisions. This raises the question: do you need to be a good leader? Not necessarily. The basic rule is not to use an inflexible yardstick. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Speaking negatively to others stems from my discomfort. Positive language fosters respect and happiness in relationships. This isn’t merely due to the “power of positivity”; it’s how our brains have evolved to interpret it. When asked, “Why don’t you study?” the negative framing prompts the brain to release cortisol, which ramps up stress. Consequently, the brain associates “studying” with unpleasantness. Conversely, if you say, “I appreciate your studying even while you play,” the message shifts. Parents shape children; husbands influence wives, and wives impact husbands. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Eco bags are not eco-friendly. In 2007, the eco-bags, which British designer Anya Hindmarch printed, “I’m Not a Plastic Bag” on canvas, sold out 20,000 copies in 30 minutes at a limited edition price of 5 pounds. The project reduced the use of plastic bags by 58% over the next two years in Britain. However, a survey by the British Environment Agency found that consumers used paper bags at least 3 times more to have less environmental impact than plastic bags and used eco bags 131 times more to help protect the environment. In 2018, Denmark also announced a study that indicated people used plastic bags at least 37 times, paper bags 43 times, and eco bags 7,100 times before being discarded to recover from pollution. Yes, the facts that people believe have cheated us all. Materials and consumption are necessary, but people belatedly realized that environmental protection should also consider product use cycles and production. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

“Road Runner” in Warner Bros. animation “Looney Tunes” only runs. To catch it, the villain, “Wile E. Coyote,” digs a trap but only gets beaten by himself every time. However, if it is not a cartoon, the severity of the accidents that “Wile E. Coyote” suffers traps him every time is fierce. We do not acknowledge it. We even watch with the children and laugh together. Because we think that in our brains, “This is animation; it’s just a cartoon, not reality…” Realism has a profound effect on our morality. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Virus intelligence has a level of intelligence that cannot be considered life but poses a threat to humans. Only one factor accounts for this: the “self-replication ability.” Creating a company entails a self-replicating mechanism to replace the founder or president. Even individuals with exceptional skills can amass moderate wealth, but they cannot achieve great wealth without recognizing the importance of self-replicating ability. Self-replicating ability is not merely a matter of intelligence and skill; it is about replication—specifically, the survival instinct. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

McDonald’s main menu featured barbecue, and the hamburger was one of 27 items. McDonald’s provided a system for customers to order directly, pick up a hamburger after a while, and serve the food on a plate rather than in a wrapper. When they faced stagnant business, they looked back at the cause and found that 80% of sales came from hamburgers, French fries, and beverages. It took a long time to reduce the menu and switch from plates to wrappers. The past holds back the present and the future. Poor success also involves the burdens of the past. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

The northern hemisphere is in summer, while the southern hemisphere is in winter. Argentina’s Patagonia experiences temperatures as low as -16 °C for a week, even during the summer season in the northern hemisphere. This phenomenon makes it clear that the season is not merely a concept of time. You are correct in viewing the season in terms of place and environment. If you live in the same place simultaneously, both the place and the environment affect human beings. Nevertheless, we keep making excuses. Making excuses about time doesn’t cost anything, and it has a universality that is easy to sympathize with… - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

“Culture” is a lifestyle that does not naturally accept or object to “reason.” The key is that you don’t pick “reason. ”  However, if someone asks “why?” to the passing-over phenomenon without any doubt, many things are revealed. Cultural products, organizational culture, art, community, and social matters kneel before this question. Ask yourself, “Why?”. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

The true opposite of conscientiousness isn’t laziness; it’s hastiness. If integrity is defined by consistency, then laziness contrasts with integrity. However, if we emphasize completion and a meticulous, persevering approach, then impatience and careless actions can undermine everything. Think about your own perspective. Which definition resonates with you more? - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Consider your state before speaking. This is because, no matter how much you consider others first, you will inevitably experience distortions in communication. As a result, the efficiency of delivering the truth is significantly reduced. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

According to a cognitive psychologist’s study, creativity is closely related to goal setting. Even though it seems less likely than it does for someone who simply sets a viable goal, a person who sets an unusual goal is more likely to have the ability to connect unrelated elements. In terms of creativity, “dreaming” is more important than planning. One of the things artificial intelligence can’t do on behalf of humans is engage in this act of dreaming. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Years of research by cognitive psychologists indicate that creative individuals are influenced more by situational factors than by their inherent talent. Essentially, being able to navigate a creative context is more crucial than possessing creative skills. Creativity does not exist in isolation; it is shaped by the surrounding environment and context. People are influenced more by their circumstances than by personal abilities. To reach their objectives, individuals must understand the necessary tools and techniques. However, concentrating solely on these tools can lead to a loss of perspective on the ultimate goals. Establishing clear goals can transform the environment and context in which one operates. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

We believe that we communicate with each other by exchanging text messages through mobile messengers without ever having to meet in person. Furthermore, we believe that property rights to land are simply changed by altering the name on the land document without physically moving the property. A transaction can only take place if you first conceptualize it. There’s no deal if you don’t get others on your side by conceptualizing your assets. The “assetization of value” that prices an asset creates a transaction target, and the conceptualization of that target makes it a transactionable credit. To succeed in business, you must be good at conceptualizing assets and assetizing values that others quickly agree upon. That’s the basis. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Price and value are different things. Value is relative and subjective, but price makes those numbers tangible and helps us empathize with others. The result of that empathy is a deal, an exchange. Only when value is assetized does wealth arise. The way to assetize values is to price them. In other words, pricing is the process of valuing assets. Determining whether the value assigned to an asset is appropriate is called investment. From an investor’s point of view, investment begins by questioning the objective price of an asset. Consumption is the exchange of goods and services at a price agreed upon by all parties. Consumption and investment are two distinct concepts. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

All values are interconnected and relative. There is no such thing as an absolute value. For instance, is the value of the goose that lays golden eggs due to the goose itself, or because of the golden eggs it produces? Are the productive forces of life indeed more precious, or does gold hold greater value? If you find yourself on the brink of starvation without food, which is more valuable: the goose that lays the golden egg or the one that lays ordinary eggs? Value depends on context and circumstances, as it is inherently relative and changeable. In essence, all values fluctuate. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

Imagine you have a goose that lays golden eggs (how wonderful that would be!). According to philosophy, there are three primary approaches to utilizing this goose. The first person, driven by hunger, decides to cut open the goose, retrieve a golden egg, and sell it. The second individual manages hunger differently by selling the golden eggs as they are produced. Lastly, the third person opts to lease the goose to earn rental income. This scenario illustrates earned income, financial income, and investments. Ultimately, it comes down to how you choose to manage your time (profit in fixed terms) to fit your needs. Wealth is defined by circumstances and the passage of time. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”

If you’re angry, it’s important to seek an apology from the person who wronged you. Anger that doesn’t lead to an apology becomes a mere emotional release. Sometimes, it can be more beneficial not to hold on to anger, especially when you can’t expect an apology. Mental management allows you to assess the situation. If you believe an apology isn’t forthcoming, you might find it easier to redirect that anger inward, preserving your dignity in the process. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”