Headwinds and Tailwinds

I found this podcast very interesting. It's an interview with two social psychologists who have researched why people overvalue the obstacles they encounter in their life and undervalue the benefits they have received. They call them, respectively, "headwinds" and "tailwinds." They use the analogy of a runner who is  really aware if he is running into a strong wind which makes the run more difficult. As long as the wind is blowing in his face, he notices it. However, when the wind shifts to behind him, the run becomes easier. After a little while, he forgets the added benefit of the tailwind.  Thinking of my own life, I know I have experienced a lot of tailwinds and really don't think the headwinds I have faced have been that strong. I can think of many times when I was just lucky to be in the right place at the right time or derived some advantage by simply being a reasonably intelligent white guy.

Half Birthday Surprise

I am halfway to my next birthday, an occasion I have always noted. I had an interesting surprise this morning from the past, in the form of an email written to be delivered ten years in the future. I mused about what my life would be like on this date. Fortunately I did get some stuff right like hoping to have gotten an advanced degree and to still be playing music. I didn't think I'd be any better on guitar but I honestly think I am. I mentioned Bob, the guy who played bass in our band then. He unfortunately died three years ago of a heart attack, sitting in a chair watching TV.  That band had broken up but I still kept in touch with him. I was also correct that the company that employed me would no longer exist. Other things I won't mention I did get very wrong but that's to be expected. I am not on the verge of retirement as I thought. I am no longer doing crossword puzzles but still am a big Manchester United fan. I also make no mention of running which is my other passion now. I was running back then but hadn't done any organized races. It is also good to see that I am still the same weight as I was back then: 167 lbs.  The question is: do I write another one for 2027?


I never heard this song before last Wednesday but really like it, especially the reference to Manchester United.