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The Propeller – Extend Cell Phone Batteries and Wisdom From Charles Munger – October 1, 2023

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Hello October!

As we usher in a new month, we find ourselves at the intersection of technology, nature’s beauty with the colors of fall leaves, and the promise of cooler days. October is not just a calendar shift; it’s a reminder of the ever-evolving world we live in.

In October, we witness the remarkable transition of leaves, as they shed their old selves to embrace a vibrant transformation. Much like nature, we too have the power to shed our limitations and adapt to new challenges. The changing leaves remind us that change is inevitable, but it can also be beautiful.

And in this age of rapid technological advancement, let’s celebrate the incredible strides in AI and technology. These innovations have the power to amplify our abilities and open up a world of possibilities. Just as the leaves change, so too can we adapt to the ever-shifting landscape of technology.

As October unfolds, consider how you can harness the advances in technology and AI to enhance your own journey. Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring a creative endeavor, or embarking on a career path, remember that technology is a tool that can empower your dreams.

So, let October be your canvas for growth and transformation. Embrace the beauty of change, savor the crispness in the air, and utilize the wonders of technology and AI to pursue your passions and aspirations.

May this October be a season of renewal, where you merge the wisdom of nature’s cycles with the possibilities of the digital age. Embrace the changing leaves, the cooling weather, and the marvels of technology, for they are all reminders that you have the power to shape your future.

Here’s to a magnificent October, where the fusion of nature and technology ignites your spirit and propels you towards greatness!

What do you have planned for October?  Drop me an email and share your plans and goals.  Perhaps we can help each other achieve these together.

 

 
Tech Tip: Extend Your Cell Phone Battery Life

Cell phones are essential in our daily lives, but a dead battery can quickly disrupt your day. To maximize your cell phone’s battery life, consider these tips:

  1. Adjust Screen Brightness: Lower your screen brightness or enable adaptive brightness to automatically adjust based on your surroundings. A dimmer screen consumes less power.

  2. Enable Battery Saver Mode: Most smartphones offer a battery saver mode that limits background processes and notifications. Activate it when your battery is running low.

  3. Manage Background Apps: Close apps running in the background that you’re not actively using. Some apps can drain your battery even when not in use.

  4. Update Software: Keep your phone’s operating system and apps up to date. Developers often release updates that optimize battery performance.

  5. Turn Off Unnecessary Features: Disable Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and location services when you’re not using them. These features can drain your battery quickly. (Be sure to turn them back on though!  Using Wi-FI uses much less battery when you re able to connect to Wi-Fi)

  6. Reduce Push Notifications: Limit the number of apps that send push notifications. Each notification wakes up your phone, consuming power.

  7. Use Airplane Mode in Low-Signal Areas: When in areas with poor signal strength, your phone works harder to find a connection. Switching to Airplane Mode can save battery life.

  8. Limit Widgets and Live Wallpapers: Animated widgets and live wallpapers can drain your battery. Use static wallpapers and minimize widgets.

  9. Optimize Auto-Lock Settings: Set a shorter auto-lock time to turn off your screen sooner when it’s not in use.

  10. Carry a Portable Charger: Invest in a portable charger or power bank to recharge your phone on the go.  (I just picked up a great one from PilotMall.com.  Check it out here:  https://www.pilotmall.com/products/pilotmall-com-super-power-bank?_pos=1&_psq=power+bank&_ss=e&_v=1.0 )

By implementing these tips, you can significantly extend your cell phone’s battery life and ensure it stays powered when you need it most.

Secure Your Digital World
National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

As we enter October, it’s an excellent time to prioritize cybersecurity. Here are my top tips for cybersecurity:

  • Update All Your Devices and Software: Ensure that your computer, smartphone, tablet, and all software applications are up to date. Security patches and updates often address vulnerabilities that cybercriminals could exploit.

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA wherever possible, especially for your email, social media, and financial accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or authentication app code.

  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Don’t reuse passwords across multiple accounts. Utilize a reliable password manager to generate and store complex, unique passwords for each account.

  • Beware of Phishing Attempts: Be cautious of unsolicited emails, messages, or calls asking for personal information. Verify the sender’s legitimacy before clicking on links or sharing sensitive data.

  • Regularly Back Up Your Data: Create backups of important files, photos, and documents. In case of a cyberattack, you’ll have a copy of your data that’s not affected.

  • Educate Yourself and Your Family: Cybersecurity isn’t just an individual concern. Teach your family about online safety, recognizing scams, and protecting personal information.

  • Secure Your Home Network: Change default router passwords, use strong encryption (WPA3), and regularly update your router’s firmware to safeguard your home network.

  • Review App Permissions: Periodically review and revoke unnecessary permissions granted to apps on your devices. Only allow apps access to data they genuinely need.

  • Install Reliable Security Software: Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices to detect and prevent threats.

  • Stay Informed: Keep up with cybersecurity news and trends. Awareness is your best defense against evolving threats.  Keep reading The Propeller every week and I’ll keep you updated!

Take a proactive approach to cybersecurity to protect your digital life and ensure a safe online experience. Cybersecurity Awareness Month is an opportunity to fortify your defenses and reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks.

WIsdom From Charlie Munger

One of my favorite books is ‘Poor Charlie’s Almanack: The Essential Wit and Wisdom of Charles T. Munger.’ An updated (and much less expensive) version is set to release later this year, and I already reserved a copy.  You can pre-order your copy here:  https://amzn.to/3t8Vzu6

The book is filled with Charlie’s essential speeches and you can learn more about human nature and investing from this one book than just about anywhere else.

David Senra, the host of the excellent ‘Founders Podcast’ turned his notes on this book into a list of 28 Munger maxims.  They are all so good, I have to share them here:

1. Find a simple idea and take it seriously. 

2. Good ideas are rare. When you find one bet heavily. 

3. Humans have been writing down their best ideas for 5,000 years. Read them.

4. Avoiding stupid mistakes is more important than being smart.

5. Don’t work with anyone you don’t admire.

6. Don’t sell anything you wouldn’t buy.

7. Avoiding a bad habit is easier than breaking a bad habit.

8. Work on your best idea. Don’t diversify

9. Incentives rule everything around you. Look for them. 

10. Great businesses are built by going ridiculously far in maximizing or minimizing one or a few things. Think Costco. 

11. Learning is changing behavior. 

12. Do the unpleasant tasks first.

13. Charlie has read hundreds of biographies. Do the same. 

14. Stop multitasking. Concentrate.

15. Many hard problems are solved best when approached backwards.

16. Think of ideas as tools. When a better tool comes along use it.

17. Clip your business and personal expenses. Small leaks sink big ships.

18. Make friends with smart dead people. Adam Smith, Darwin, Cicero, Ben Franklin —whoever interests you. Read their writing. Steal their ideas. They don’t need them anymore.

19. Don’t confuse intelligence with invincibility.

20. Bad things will happen to you. It’s inevitable. When they do get up and keep going and remember the next maxim. 

21. Self pity has no utility.  

22. Find out what you are best at. Then pound away at it. Forever.

23. Only plays games where you have an edge.

24. Avoid mob rule. Avoid demagogues. Avoid dogma. Avoid bureaucracy.

25. Optimize for independence.

25. Use money to buy freedom.

26. Develop durability.

27. What do you have an *intense* interest in? Do that for money.

28. Self improvement has no end.

What I’m Reading/Listening To This Week

My goal of reading one book a week in 2023 is still underway. 

What I read Last week:

Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience

Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown is a departure from my usual reading preferences, but it turned out to be a pleasantly surprising and insightful book. The three key takeaways I gleaned from this book are::

  1. Embracing Vulnerability: Brené Brown explores the concept of vulnerability as a powerful and transformative force in our lives. While I’m not one who is typically open to being vulnerable, her insights into vulnerability’s role in fostering courage, empathy, and creativity were eye-opening.

  2. Understanding Emotions: Brown provides an extensive “atlas” of emotions, which I found surprisingly relatable and enlightening. Her exploration of various feelings, from joy and love to disappointment and fear, offered valuable perspectives on the complexities of human emotion.

  3. Building Authentic Connections: Despite my initial reservations, I appreciated Brown’s emphasis on the importance of vulnerability and emotional intelligence in nurturing genuine connections with others. Her insights challenged my perspective and underscored the significance of openness and authenticity in relationships.

Atlas of the Heart was a departure from my typical reading preferences, but it proved to be a thought-provoking and valuable read. Brené Brown’s exploration of vulnerability, emotions, and authentic connections left a lasting impression and offered valuable lessons for personal growth and human connection.

Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3F8YYMl

What I am reading this week:

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I am excited to finally be diving into and reading this book that I have recently acquired. I have eagerly anticipated reading for two compelling reasons: Firstly, the subject matter revolves around the life and achievements of the renowned Warren Buffett, and secondly, the author is none other than one of my esteemed college professors, Todd A. Finkle, PhD.

During my time at the University of Akron, Dr. Finkle played a pivotal role in shaping my academic journey, teaching my favorite courses that eventually culminated in an Entrepreneurship minor. As a trailblazer in establishing one of the earliest college Entrepreneurship programs, he demonstrated an unparalleled passion for fostering entrepreneurial spirit. I also had the privilege of participating in an independent study under Dr. Finkle’s mentorship for a semester, an experience that further deepened my appreciation for his expertise and guidance.

I eagerly anticipate delving into his book, where he shares his personal encounters with Mr. Buffett, offering insights into the secrets behind his extraordinary success. 

Read along by picking up your copy here:  https://amzn.to/46wvNOQ

 

Stay Frosty…

 

This is re-published from the weekly email sent by Leonard Mack entitled The Propeller. To subscribe, visit https://www.LeonardMack.com/subscribe and read it every Sunday evening.

This intellectual nourishment is intended for informational purposes only. One should not construe anything herein as being legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.

My rule is this – I have no advice to give, only experience to share. I have no interest in being a guru or telling people what they should do. Rather, I share my own experience because there is no right or wrong. Your mileage may vary.

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