UPBUILDING THE SELF

The Cost of Cutting Corners

What happens when we take shortcuts in life? Does this lead us toward more efficiency and success, or does it ultimately lead us down a path of self-deception and erosion of character? In this episode, the entire team gets together to analyze the profound implications of cutting corners. While sharing personal anecdotes and also unpacking some of the world’s most “successful” corner-cutters, they examine how this behavior manifests, the mindsets driving it, and the unexpected consequences it may unveil.

Podcast Hosts: Hari Prasada, Rasanath, Vipin and Michael

Highlights

  • [1:20] Why is this topic so important?

  • [3:00] An example of cutting corners and how we define it

  • [8:00] The examples of Lance Armstrong and Elizabeth Holmes

  • [9:30] What happens when we don’t have the proper role models

  • [10:40] The Wall Street Journal test

  • [12:40] A shortcut to developing character

  • [15:20] Is there an absolute line between right and wrong?

  • [18:50] Using extrinsic motivations to shape our intrinsic motivations

  • [20:20] Vipin’s coaching example on character

  • [22:00] Breaking trust with ourselves (The Broken Windows Theory)

  • [27:00] Rasanath’s personal example and learning

  • [36:00] The first step to avoid cutting corners

Quotes

  • “[Cutting Corners] is anything which is not going the full distance for what is required.” -Hari Prasada

  • “We can’t do wrong without justifying that it’s right.” -Rasanath

  • “If you only focus on one thing, focus on building your character.” -Vipin

  • “When we cut corners we break trust with ourselves and the people around us.” -Michael

  • “At the end of the day, the question we have to ask is: ‘Is this really about other people or am I living a me-centered life?’” -Hari Prasada

For first timers, welcome to Upbuilding the Self

About the podcast: Two former monks, a former startup founder and CEO, and a former equity derivatives trader dive into how to be our best selves, free from the ego. Our egos are the identities we create for ourselves and wish the world to validate, but when we are not seen as we want to be, we feel insecure. This podcast lives at the intersection of leadership and spirituality. It will help you understand your ego and shed light on your inner world so that you can act with greater clarity, compassion, and the freedom to be your best self.