First Principles

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Edition #58   •   18 Aug 2024    •   18 min read

The Sunday Dweller Community

And also surveys, community specials, new listens, and some great reads

by Rohin Dharmakumar

And also surveys, community specials, new listens, and some great reads

A community-powered Sunday newsletter on mental models, self-reflection, learning, growth, photos, books, and more Subscribe here

Good morning [%first_name |Dear Reader%],

Good morning fellow Sunday dwellers, which includes you dear reader. Isn’t that what we are? Hundreds of thousands of eclectic, diverse, and unique individuals living all over the world, united only by our unhurried Sunday life.

This edition leans into that vibe.

I often wonder if this newsletter is meant to be read in a reflective mood for the week gone by, or in a contemplative one for the week starting up?

I’m torn. Sundays are relaxed and reflective for me, but I also find it hard to not spend much of it thinking about the week that lies ahead. And much as I love Monday mornings (probably my next favourite morning of the week, after Sundays), it is also when I often feel that dreaded Imposter Syndrome.

“There is so much to do this week and not enough time. Have you finally bitten off more than you can chew, Rohin?”

“This time you’ve done it. You’ve been playing a game way beyond your skills and capabilities. And boy, the crash is going to be glorious.”

And then, after the first sip of a freshly pressed coffee, it passes.

It’s surprising how long this newsletter has run without me talking about coffee.

This week, our espresso grinder broke down, so we are surviving with pre-ground coffee till it gets repaired.

The coffee rabbit hole is very much like the hi-fi music rabbit hole. You can always spend more money to go deeper, convincing yourself that pure gold cables or third wave water make your music or coffee so much better.

I won’t argue with either. To each their own. We all need our vices or passions.

We “invested” in an espresso machine within a few months of the pandemic of 2020. Hands-down, it was one of our best investments, reliably delivering impeccable coffee every morning (and through the day).

Honestly, I think the best test of what a great investment (not monetary) is, is how often you use it in a day or week, and how much joy it gives you.

What is it for you? I’d love to know.

Tell us by taking the survey here.

Sundays are also bath-ritual days for me and Gabru.

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