This is an updated version of the original book with more depth, feedback, and experience after having sold more than a million copies in its various forms. Enjoy!
You can read it all here, or for a better experience, buy the book or eBook at Amazon or Gumroad. Download a sample at 212spark.com.
Water is hot at 211 degrees.
Heat it to 212 and it boils, producing steam.
And with steam, you can create power.
1 extra degree changes everything.
1 more degree and we have something useful and meaningful—something that can power machines, industries, and cities.
An inviting metaphor that, on its surface, implies ease. Just a little extra effort, and we can create something wonderful. True at times, but the real value in the 212 concept is deeper. It shines a light on the importance of developing one’s ability to be consistently attentive, mindful, and caring.
The initial simplicity of the message is helpful. It quickly captures the mind and heart as something “even I can do.” It’s optimistic—hopeful. Who can’t put in a little extra effort?
So, the idea connects, sticks, and shows up as action more than it might otherwise—keeping us rooted in the awareness that sometimes a little more matters.
And with awareness comes responsibility—and opportunity. The more we see and experience 212 examples, the more likely we are to cultivate and nurture a set of habits (discipline) and a way of thinking that leads to more consistent action—giving ourselves a better shot at the special and meaningful things we might want.
And that’s it, the deeper truth of the 212 concept—
It’s consistent attention and effort over time that gets us to special. That last degree gives us our steam, but it’s preceded by 211 other degrees.
There’ll be times when that last degree is easier to reach than it is scientifically.* But, the real message here is to be as consistent as we can in developing and strengthening our ability for good thinking and doing—to reach and keep reaching—to love and keep loving.
Excited?
* Scientifically, the energy needed to get from one degree to the next increases as the temperature increases. So, scientifically, that last degree is never easy. But a smile or a simple kind statement that can dramatically change the mood of the room, is.
Keep reading » 212 attention
° You and the spark. In the end, they’re one in the same. You guard that because it’s precious. Now it’s time to get to work.
Martin Scorsese | American filmmaker | 1942 -
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