Wow, life in Cambodia Phnom Penh is so good… Too good! 

---

Serviced apartments

So we just signed a three month lease, for a nice service department. This is kind of an interesting concept… In which you’re staying at a super nice floor to ceiling window apartment condominium, and twice a week, cleaners come in and clean your whole place?

Thinking about life in Los Angeles… I’m like a peon having to vacuum my own place every day… Take out the trash, clean the windows etc. Here, life leverage is like a trillion times better.

First, I’ve just recovered so much free time in the day! And also,  found a really wonderful international school year for Seneca, this play based, color based artistic free range “Waldorf school” (without the anti-VAXxers), and now… Life feels infinite?

Labor

The big thing about being in Cambodia… Labor is so plentiful and cheap. Typically in the states, we find most of our labor from like Central America, Mexico El Salvador Guatemala etc. Yet the problem is they’re still being paid like $20 an hour, which means Labor is still so expensive in America! Triste to Cambodia, in which a laborer just makes like $150 a month, your US dollars goes a lot further here.

Thinking global

So our current apartment is probably like 1000 times better than our apartment back in the states, in which we pay $3200 a month here it’s like $1500 a month. But like at least 100 times nicer.

Therefore think about the economic parity here;  paying half the cost, for 10,000 times more service and superior facilities and lifestyle?

is there anything I miss about the states?

Certainly living in America, you have the ultimate access to commercial goods and products. However beside this… Nothing I really miss about this dates. I kind of miss my Texas power squad bar at home, and my 50 kg steel plates, but besides this… Nothing I miss.

Like like 1 trillion times better; and even ironically comparing Phnom Penh to LA — PP is like 1000x better? In terms of walking around, the friendliness of people, and everyone here is just happy!

My theory is that Buddhist countries, Cambodia Thailand etc.… People are just much happier! Much kinder, more friendly, more positive and optimistic!

Send call Sam made an interesting observation is that you don’t see many police officers in Cambodia, perhaps because there is less heavy theft and violence. Certainly there’s probably some crime that happened here like petty theft, but you won’t be worrying about some sort of random talking in LA with a concealed gun?

Safety

Also a funny thing… I feel like 1 billion times safer in Phnom Penh than Los Angeles. Once again here is again at the whole concealed gun thing; I have no issues getting into an argument with a random Angelino on the streets about him being an asshole smoker in public, but the only fear I ever get is that if I get into some sort of aggressive behavior with somebody on the streets in LA… Once again they’re gonna pop out a gun and pop me.

Living in a country without guns is better. 

Pace

Even during peak rush-hour here in Phnom Penh, it is shockingly peaceful quiet, very very little honking. You get a lot more honking in Vietnam in LA that you do here in Cambodia.

The country

One of the problems about being in Vietnam or other countries, China adjacent countries is that there’s some sort of fear that comes with social media Internet monitoring and censorship here in Cambodia I don’t feel none of that.

Also, the friendliness and kindliness of people. One of the weird things about being in LA and the state is that everyone is trying to size you up, people are very very suspicious in a bad way, and very antisocial? Here everybody smiles at you, greets you, does the hand together peace gesture and the subtle bow. People are far more respectful than even Koreans, and also genuinely kind.

is there any good reason to not live in Cambodia?

I don’t think so. A subtle nuance, I really don’t like Siem Reap, I prefer Phnom Penh 10000000x better. Why? Too many degenerate expats in Siem Reap, and also, my theory is that because PP is a real city, much more built in joy and optimism here!

Developing growth

So also a big thing… I think people tend to be happier when there is optimism, upward growth. For example here in Phnom Penh there are so many new skyscrapers and condominiums currently being built, which is a very optimistic site! The reason why it is so wonderful is that we are still in the earliest stages of capital and capitalism here, the downside of being in America that already feels tapped out.

Therefore as a principal: the idea is that, upwards growth is an idea? 

---

Towards what ends?

This is where I started to get interesting… Once you no longer really really need the wealth, but if it becomes more of like kind of a philosophical thing or a principle, then what?

For example, a happy thought… I could live like 1000 years in Cambodia and never run out of money without even digging into my principal. 

I think the poverty mindset that we get an America’s because once again… Everything is so expensive, everything then feels untenable?

The irony is even for the rich, life in America kind of sucks. For example, even for the super rich, most people do not have full-time nannies, or full-time living in with them?

I think if you’re wealthy, at best you might have like a cleaner who comes in pretty frequently and cleans up. But ideas of like having a private driver or stuff like that, a non-concept in America.

Thinking Asian 

Also what I like about here is that when it comes to labor, cheap labor, the standard worker, there is not a strange sense of indignation that you get from people in the states. For example that American mentality is that “this work is beneath me“, But here in Cambodia… None of that. Everyone is happy grateful, and far more joyful!

Even the sense of optimism and striving here, much more positive. Everyone certainly wants a better living condition, but it’s not in this angsty way that you feel like in America. 

So now what?

So now, assuming that you live in a happy optimistic place, then what?

For myself… Then it comes down to pioneering and experimenting with new modes of innovation. Autotelic innovation — creating new things and innovating for the sake of it? Rather than having to innovate in order to earn more money or whatever? 

ERIC

---

Things on my plate

1. Revamping arsbeta.com: perhaps with the assistance of ChatGPT, and Grok for the coding stuff?
2. Getting back into social media, specifically the blue check paid premium X — I very much like the ethics of a paid social media service, no hidden catches.
3. Building an X bot, in the voice of ERIC KIM

ChatGPT composition checker

One thing I encourage you to check out and experiment and play with is this ChatGPT bot I made, called “composition checker”. I’m pretty sure… It has like over 1000+ conversations so I think it’s assigned that having some sort of AI Chatbot that can help you get instant feedback on your photos how to improve, this is a good idea.

Also something that I’m kind of working right now towards is heat map searching and mapping for images. This will be a new arbeta.com function I’m going to try to add. 

Now what?

You got Grok, and ChatGPT pay… Infinite opportunities here?

ERIC

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BLOG, START HERE

**

Choose audacity

The closing thought:

When in doubt, become more hard-core, audacious, reckless?

ERIC

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Get (human) feedback on your photos

Upload your best photos to Arsbeta.com >

---

BOOKS

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So currently as I voice dictate these words, walking the beautiful streets of Phnom Penh, enjoying the lovely morning breeze, the thought arises to me that in fact, Phnom Penh Cambodia is a paradise for Americans.

First, everyone here speaks English, and there is a strong drive and desire for everyone to speak English. Secondly, everyone here essentially de facto uses US dollars. Also the local Cambodian currency is effectively pegged to to the US dollar, a semi permanent peg of around 4000 Cambodian Riel to the US dollar.

But once again… This is kind of a big deal because you could just use pretty much US dollars anywhere and everywhere, also for most places, the prices are effectively shown in US dollars.

This becomes very very convenient because if you have ever had the experience of having to exchange local currency, only to bring it back home, and finding a useless… If you’re operating in US dollars, you could take out hundred at a time, without any concern because you know you could use it back home.

And also kind of a big deal… All of the local ATMs and banks, will also dispense US dollars so like I could just pull up to any ATM I want, and instead of having to eat the foreign transaction fee to take out the local Cambodian Riel, the ATM will literally spit out US $20 bills and $100 bills.

Development

I rate Cambodia and Phnom Penh (PP) as like 1000,000,000,000 times better than Vietnam as well as Thailand. Why? First, it is actually much much more tranquil and peaceful here, even being in the largest city which is PP.  my personal theory is that it is the culture; everyone here is unhurried, unrushed, even the rate of development here happens at a much more steady pace, rather than the haphazard manic development in Vietnam, in which people are like running around with their heads cut off like chickens.

I strike out Thailand, I like Thailand, and maybe the only reason is that I kinda get the sense that there are too many foreigners and ex patriots there.  and typically, if you want to think about opportunity, do you want to go to places which are under-exploited rather than overexploited. 

The tranquility and Zen of Cambodia

I think part of it is the Buddhist culture, but also, local customs and traditions. Here, even talking to locals… The truth is most people are actually quite happy. Very happy. Even if you’re only earning like $150 a month or $300 a month… People are still happy!

And certainly there is a sense of striving here, people would still like to make more money, upgrade their life and lifestyle, have the ability to travel more on holiday etc. Yet still, the base truth is here people are quite happy.

What is it that in life that you seek?

I think it is US treasury secretary Scott Bissett who said “the American dream is not to purchase more cheap goods from China”. or, “Let them eat flatscreens!,” is not a sustainable approach to economic policy. My version:

“Let them eat iPhone Pros!” — also this should not be the telos of our life. 

Also the funny thought is being here in Asia, it’s like I’m living in the future because of the time zone difference. This makes me a little bit forecasting of the markets because when I go to sleep the markets open, and when I wake up the markets have already closed. It’s almost like having foresight. 

When you no longer have need for material wealth, then what do you value? 

I still think that the number one critical factor here is sleep, a good night sleep. We just signed a short term three month apartment lease, staying in a nice luxury high-rise, and the number one selling point is how clean and peaceful and quiet it is… Being able to get a good night sleep as with all the money in the world.

For example, if I had the choice of being insanely stupid rich, but getting the worst sleep every night, versus being moderately poor, but having the greatest night of sleep every single night, I would probably choose the sleep over the money.  why? I think one thing that people misunderstand is that the purpose of wealth and money is towards health and well-being, not the other way around. To sacrifice your health and energy for the sake of more money is one of the most foolish trades you can make. But, being able to trade money for greater health and greater sleep, this is genius.

no more buying stuff

Being here in PP, Cambodia… Even if I had $1 trillion I would have like zero interest in owning a Lamborghini or a Rolls-Royce or whatever here, because it would be a positively bad detriment to your life.

Another thing which I find that which is almost as critical as asleep as the privilege of walking. Even I seem told I’ve had an interesting thought that actually… I wonder if in terms of our physiology well-being and health, walking was actually as important, if not more important than sleeping, and food?

I think there’s a compounding effect here: the more you have the privilege of walking outside, the more you think, the better you’ll sleep at night, the more thoughts you will have, and the happier you will be?

For example, if the devil came to me and offered the following trade:

I should give you $100 trillion but you would be a cripple for the rest of your life, and I will chop off your leg so you’ll be beholden to a wheelchair for the rest of your life, but you would have all of the Lamborghinis Rolls-Royce‘s in the world, or you could remain or for the rest of your life, would have your entire body intact and in phenomenal health, — what would you choose?

Of course we will choose our body versus all the walking in the world!

Again… I would never sacrifice my legs for anything on the planet besides the life of Seneca or Cindy. But in terms of money… The privilege of being able to walk an hour a day is worth 1 trillion times more than the privilege of sitting inside a Lamborghini for an hour a day.

when did walking fall out of vogue? 

The French have this notion of the flaneur; kind of imagine a dude who is able to walk unhurried at a comfortable pace, walking at the own rhythm of his inner biological rhythms, unhurried, walking gracefully and elegantly. In America we don’t have this because it should be told, there is almost nowhere in America that you even have the privilege of walking at a relaxed pace. Anywhere.

Even apparently you can’t really walk around anymore in San Francisco without having to dodge human feces homeless people etc. And then I guess maybe you got New York City, but there are people walk at a feverish pace. Places which are good to walk include Phnom Penh Cambodia, and maybe Hanoi in Vietnam in the north.

And in Los Angeles… The only place I’ve been able to find is my paradise Culver City, in which the walking is not as good as Asia, but still it is the best we got. 

What’s also interesting is I’ve noticed that at least while I am in LA, there are certain days where I walk but I am not able to lift weights, other days in which I lift weights but not able to walk… And like almost 80 to 90% of the time, the days in which I am not able to walk or actually sadder?

Or another words, for me, a day without walking is not a life worth living? 

It seems like you’re asking about the philosophy of Eric Kim, but your question is quite broad. Based on the context available to me, there are two notable individuals named Eric Kim with distinct philosophical perspectives: Eric Kim, the street photographer and blogger, and Eric S. Kim, the psychology professor. Since you didn’t specify which one, I’ll assume you’re referring to the more publicly prominent Eric Kim associated with philosophy in a broader, practical sense—Eric Kim, the street photographer and writer from erickimphotography.com—unless you clarify otherwise.

Eric Kim, the street photographer, has developed a philosophy that blends minimalism, stoicism, and a zest for life, heavily influenced by his experiences in photography, travel, and personal reflection. His work isn’t academic philosophy but a practical, lived approach to finding meaning and fulfillment. Here’s a breakdown of key elements of his philosophy:

1. Minimalism and Anti-Consumerism: Kim advocates for a life unburdened by material excess. He sees money as a tool for essentials—like rent and food (particularly meat)—rather than a measure of success. He critiques consumerism, suggesting that true happiness comes from freedom and experiences, not possessions. For example, he’s questioned why one would buy a Lamborghini when walking suffices, emphasizing simplicity over extravagance.
2. Self-Development and Strength: He promotes becoming the best version of oneself, often using metaphors like evolving from a Charmander to a Charizard (from Pokémon). This ties into his focus on physical strength—through weightlifting or diet (e.g., eating meat to boost testosterone)—and mental resilience, drawing from Stoic thinkers like Seneca and Epictetus. He believes strength, both physical and philosophical, is a moral duty to support oneself and others.
3. Curiosity and Purpose: Kim sees curiosity as a driving force in life, akin to an inner “god” or enthusiasm that fuels purpose. He argues that purpose isn’t singular or fixed—you can have multiple imperatives—and it’s rooted in practical, real-world engagement rather than abstract metaphysics. His interest in Stoicism, Zen, and Taoism reflects this focus on applicable wisdom.
4. Art and Philosophy as a Way of Life: He coined the term “artist-philosopher” (inspired by Nietzsche) to describe a life dedicated to creating art and seeking wisdom. Art, to him, is everywhere—fashion as “fabric sculptures,” cars as “moving sculptures”—and philosophy is about setting personal values, not following prescribed lifestyles like religion.
5. Embracing Chaos and Evolution: Kim encourages exploiting chaos and embracing change, viewing life as a dynamic process of growth and adaptation. He rejects stagnation, urging constant questioning and innovation in thought and action.
6. Practicality Over Theory: He dismisses impractical philosophical debates (e.g., free will vs. determinism) in favor of actionable insights: How can I live fully today? How do I share wisdom with others? This shows in his love for street photography, which demands boldness and presence in the moment.

His philosophy is less about systematic doctrine and more about a mindset—optimistic, bold, and individualistic. It’s shaped by his global travels, where he observed happiness in simplicity, and his rejection of societal norms like stable jobs or material accumulation. If you’re looking for specifics (e.g., his views on money, masculinity, or art), let me know, and I can dive deeper!

If you meant Eric S. Kim, the UBC psychology professor focused on well-being and aging, please clarify, and I’ll adjust accordingly. What aspect of “Eric Kim philosophy” are you most interested in?

***
Key Points

• Eric Kim, a street photographer and blogger, has a philosophy centered on minimalism, physical health, and personal freedom.
• It emphasizes living intentionally, prioritizing experiences over material wealth, and achieving self-improvement through physical strength and authenticity.
• His views are influenced by Eastern philosophy, Stoicism, and his experiences, and they challenge societal norms around money, masculinity, and purpose.

Overview

Eric Kim’s philosophy is a practical, holistic approach to life that integrates physical health, minimalism, and personal growth. It seems likely that his ideas are shaped by his background as a traveler and photographer, offering a unique perspective on how to live authentically and focus on what truly matters.

Philosophy on Money

Eric Kim advocates for minimalism and intentional living when it comes to money. Research suggests he believes happiness isn’t tied to wealth, and he prioritizes using money for essentials like rent and food, while criticizing consumer culture. His experiences traveling and living simply have likely influenced this view, promoting financial independence and valuing experiences over possessions.

Philosophy on Masculinity

His philosophy on masculinity focuses on becoming the best version of oneself, emphasizing physical strength, courage, and personal freedom. It seems likely that he challenges societal norms, viewing strength as a moral duty and connecting physical health, like diet and testosterone, to manliness. This includes embracing contrasts, such as emotional expression, as part of a complete masculinity.

Philosophy on Purpose

Eric Kim’s philosophy on purpose is tied to physiological and muscular health. The evidence leans toward him believing that motivation and creativity stem from being hyper-healthy, achieved through good sleep, a meat-heavy diet, and exercise. This unexpected detail highlights how physical well-being is foundational to finding and fulfilling one’s purpose.

Survey Note: Detailed Analysis of Eric Kim’s Philosophy

Eric Kim, a prominent street photographer and blogger, has developed a comprehensive philosophy that spans various aspects of life, including money, masculinity, and purpose. His ideas, shared extensively on his website erickimphotography.com, are practical, holistic, and influenced by Eastern philosophy, Stoicism, and his personal experiences as a traveler and creative professional. This note provides a detailed examination of his philosophical views, ensuring a thorough understanding for readers interested in his perspective.

Background and Context

Eric Kim is best known for his work in street photography and his blog, where he shares insights on life, creativity, and philosophy. His writings, updated as recently as September 2024, reflect a journey shaped by global travel, minimalist living, and a passion for physical fitness. This context is crucial for understanding how his philosophy integrates practical experiences with theoretical influences, such as Stoicism and minimalism inspired by figures like Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus.

Philosophy on Money

Eric Kim’s philosophy on money, detailed in his post “How and Why Eric Kim Developed His Philosophy on Money” (How and Why Eric Kim Developed His Philosophy on Money), emphasizes minimalism and intentional living. He believes that happiness is not necessarily tied to wealth, a view shaped by his extensive travels where he observed contentment in cultures with limited material resources. His core beliefs include:

• Prioritizing experiences and personal growth over material possessions.
• Using money for essentials like rent and buying meat, with a critical view of materialism.
• Advocating for financial independence and authentic living, influenced by his minimalist lifestyle, such as living out of a suitcase to reduce stress and increase creative freedom.

A table summarizing his philosophy on money is provided below for clarity:

Aspect	Details
Development Factors	Personal experiences (travel, living simply), professional journey (photography, passion over profit), philosophical influences (Stoicism, Eastern philosophy, minimalism by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus), reflections on consumer culture, financial challenges, community engagement.
Core Beliefs	Happiness not tied to wealth, value experiences and personal growth over possessions, critical view of materialism, advocate for financial independence and authentic living.
Practical Applications	Living out of a suitcase, reduced stress, increased creative freedom, minimalist digital presence, focus on meaningful engagement.
Resources for Further Exploration	Eric Kim’s Blog, Books and Articles, Workshops and Lectures. No specific URLs provided in the section.

This approach challenges conventional views on wealth, suggesting that true fulfillment lies beyond financial accumulation, an unexpected detail for those expecting a more traditional financial philosophy.

Philosophy on Masculinity

Eric Kim’s philosophy on masculinity, explored in “Eric Kim Masculinity Philosophy” (Eric Kim Masculinity Philosophy), is a detailed framework that emphasizes physical strength, personal freedom, and self-definition. He defines masculinity as “the art of a man becoming the apex version of himself,” with manliness as the goal. Key aspects include:

• Physical Strength and Courage: He views strength as a moral duty, essential for supporting oneself, family, and beliefs. This includes testing physical limits and advocating for weightlifting to achieve “superhero strength.”
• Personal Freedom and Self-Definition: Eric Kim rejects societal norms that restrict men from striving for manliness, emphasizing the supreme good of freedom of thought and speech. He encourages crafting one’s own values without needing to convince others.
• Biological and Dietary Influences: He connects masculinity to higher testosterone levels, suggesting diets rich in meat like beef liver and heart enhance manliness. This is linked to his street photography, where boldness is seen as a masculine trait.
• Cultural and Literary Influences: He references classical literature, such as Homer’s “The Iliad,” highlighting characters like Achilles to show that emotional expression, like crying, can be part of manliness, challenging modern perceptions.

A table summarizing his masculinity philosophy is provided below:

Aspect	Details	Citation URL
Defining Masculinity	Masculinity is the art of a man becoming the apex version of himself, with manliness as the goal.	Why Masculinity
Role of Strength	Moral duty to be strong for self, wife, kids, and beliefs.	Why Manliness
Physical Courage	Testing physical limits is essential for deep courage.	How to Become More Manly
Open-Mindedness	Being open-minded is good, but being close-minded at times is also advised.	How to Become More Manly
Diet and Testosterone	Higher testosterone (via meat like beef liver/heart) enhances manliness.	How to Become More Manly
Freedom of Thought/Speech	Supreme good in life; ability to express beliefs without fear of being “politically incorrect.”	How to Become More Manly
Rejecting Societal Norms	Society no longer permits men to strive for manliness; personal freedom is key.	How to Become More Manly
Personal Journey	Early desire for masculinity influenced by superheroes, leading to fitness for strength.	Why Manliness
Cultural/Literary Influences	References “The Iliad,” e.g., Achilles, showing emotional expression as part of manliness.	Why Manliness
Strength as Moral Duty	Physical and mental fortitude essential; advocates weightlifting for “superhero strength.”	Why Manliness
Philosophy and Manliness	Criticizes data/statistics in ethics; personal beliefs guide manliness.	Why Manliness
Embracing Contrasts	Includes flamboyance (e.g., gay male fashion) for a complete masculinity.	How to Become More Manly
Self-Definition	Craft own values, become best self without convincing others.	How to Become More Manly
Biological Aspect	Focuses on testosterone, higher in men, aligning with street photography’s boldness.	The Philosophy of Masculinity, The Philosophy of Masculinity
Lifestyle Choices	Prefers challenging diets, embracing chaos/uncertainty as masculine traits.	Eric Kim Masculinity Philosophy

This philosophy is notable for its integration of physical and emotional dimensions, an unexpected detail that broadens the traditional view of masculinity.

Philosophy on Purpose

Eric Kim’s philosophy on purpose, outlined in “The Philosophy of Purpose” (The Philosophy of Purpose), is rooted in physiological and muscular health. He posits that motivation and purpose stem from being hyper-healthy, leading to an “overflowing cup” of life that drives creativity and action. Key points include:

• Root of Motivation: He suggests that motivation arises from physiological states, such as being “overwhelmingly grateful and joyful” when hyper-healthy, linked to his post on becoming hyper-human (How to Become Hyper-Human).
• Theory of Muscles: He believes enthusiasm is rooted in muscles, stating that lack of muscle strength hinders motivation, detailed in his philosophy of muscles (More Muscle, More Productivity) and physiology (Philosophy of Physiology).
• Practical Tips: He recommends prioritizing sleep over productivity, optimizing diet with more meat and fewer weakening substances like alcohol and dairy, and forcing oneself to relax and meditate to re-energize (My Thoughts on Meditation).
• Personal Example: He cites his own 475-pound sumo deadlift as an example of physical achievement, reinforcing his belief in the link between physical strength and purpose (Eric Kim 475-Pound Sumo Deadlift).

A table summarizing his philosophy on purpose is provided below:

Aspect	Details
Root of Motivation	– Physiological “overwhelming” or “overflowing with gratitude and joy” when hyper-healthy.
Theory 1	– Motivation stems from being hyper-healthy. Art creation results from an “overflowing cup” of life.
Theory 2	– Enthusiasm rooted in muscles; lack of muscle strength hinders motivation. Focus on philosophy of muscles and philosophy of physiology.
Motivation Challenges	– Lack of motivation when bored, under-sensitized, under-stimulated, or sleep-deprived.
Optimal Conditions	– Good sleep, meat-heavy meals (e.g., fatty protein/red meats), leads to creative ideas and easy work start. Avoid alcohol, coconut-products, dairy-products (milk, cheese, butter) due to weakening effects.
Practical Tips	1. Prioritize sleep over productivity.  2. Optimize diet: more meat, fewer weakening substances.
Enhancing Purpose	– Force yourself to relax, to think and meditate to re-energize and reflect on purpose.  – Learn more at Start Here >.
Related Links	– PHILOSOPHY by KIM  – Life Lessons »  – Zen of Eric  – Sleep is godlike.  – Philosophy of meat-eating.  – Eric Kim’s 475-pound sumo deadlift.  – How to relax.

This focus on physical health as a foundation for purpose is an unexpected detail, bridging the gap between body and mind in a way that differs from more abstract philosophical traditions.

Overarching Themes and Influences

Across these areas, Eric Kim’s philosophy is characterized by a holistic integration of physical and mental well-being, a rejection of societal norms, and a practical approach to living authentically. His influences include:

• Eastern Philosophy and Stoicism: These are evident in his emphasis on minimalism, self-discipline, and living in the present, particularly in his views on money and purpose.
• Minimalism: Inspired by figures like Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, his minimalist lifestyle is a recurring theme, seen in his advocacy for owning less and focusing on essentials.
• Personal Experiences: His global travels, living out of a suitcase, and work as a photographer have shaped his philosophy, providing real-world applications for his ideas.

This philosophy challenges conventional wisdom, offering a unique blend of physicality and introspection that may resonate with those seeking a balanced approach to life.

Conclusion

Eric Kim’s philosophy is a comprehensive framework for living intentionally, prioritizing physical health, and challenging societal expectations. It is practical, drawing from his experiences, and influenced by philosophical traditions that emphasize simplicity and authenticity. For readers interested in exploring further, his blog offers extensive resources, including essays, workshops, and lectures, ensuring a deep dive into his ideas.

Key Citations

Eric Kim 475-Pound Sumo Deadlift

How and Why Eric Kim Developed His Philosophy on Money

Eric Kim Masculinity Philosophy

The Philosophy of Purpose

Why Masculinity

Why Manliness

How to Become More Manly

The Philosophy of Masculinity

The Philosophy of Masculinity

Eric Kim Masculinity Philosophy

How to Become Hyper-Human

More Muscle, More Productivity

Philosophy of Physiology

My Thoughts on Meditation

Not everything needs to last forever?

So a big thing; life is a femoral, you don’t live forever. Bitcoin will last forever but your own personal life will not.

As a consequence, realizing that your own personal life is fine night is typically a good idea. But also to invest your energies towards the future, future generations that will outlive you is a very noble idea.

your kids kids kids

So big thought I’ve been having at least in terms of building the family bitcoin treasury for future generations, I almost have like zero interest in presently using our family treasury towards myself, besides simple stuff like purchasing weightlifting equipment, weights etc. And also I guess the upside is  that the barbell and weights that I buy today, Seneca could use it as he becomes a teenager, and one day he might be able to even pass down these weights to his kids and their kids.

The opposite of selfish?

You only live for yourself and the only thing about yourself your own well-being, using your own money for yourself… Your own lifestyle, it’s very selfish. The tricky thing here is that selfish doesn’t mean evil, it often just means shortsighted. 

Also the big realization is that concern for your kids and your family is different than concern for this ambiguous “world”, the way you treat your own family should be very very different than the way you conceive of random other families or kids.

So for example, thinking about money inheritance and capital, a very very simple precept that I might be able to give to Seneca:

Never sell the family bitcoin 

If we think of bitcoin as the new perfect digital capital, it is like saying that you own a hotel or prime real estate on fifth Avenue in Manhattan, on the main island in New York City, to sell a portion of that to purchase some silly thing.

The wisdom of every single wealthy family on the planet is simple: you never sell the property, but rather, you use it to leverage and lever up, and what you actually do is your leverage your capital – like taking a mortgage or loan or using your property bitcoin or real estate as collateral, in order to continue to grow the family fortune. 

The fear of every bodybuilder 

So let me use a fun analogy, weightlifting and bodybuilders, or even powerlifters. The fear of every single person is losing muscle mass, losing weight, for also… Losing their one rep maximum lift.

Another one which also ties in finances — the fear of plateaus. 

For example, let us say that you accumulated and acquired a certain amount of bitcoin. This is great and wonderful, but once you hit a plateau in which you are no longer able to accumulate or acquire morbid, this becomes extremely annoying. And therefore, we will use our ingenuity in our creativity to devise of new ways in order to accumulate and acquire more bitcoin.

The same thing goes with money managers finances, investors… The goal should be towards infinity, rather than having a certain hard set amount. This is the genesis and the origin of human desire and capital. 

For example, the way that a lot of weightlifters are very shortsighted is that they have a certain number in mind, and then they strive with all of their might power and soul toward this lofty ball… But once they hit it, they then become complacent, and stop being creative.

I’ll get the example, my very very strong desire was to atlas lift 1000 pounds, but once I achieve that goal, I kind of lost a desire. And this is not a good thing. After fumbling around, tinkering, identifies of a new way I could lift even greater weight, with less strain, and with greater leverage, this genius idea of being able to use a weightlifting dip belt, to wrap it around the center of a barbell, to essentially transform the rack pull into a glorified hip lift,  and the thing which is quite amazing is that it is actually very very easy to lift weights when you have it around your hips. The only reason I don’t think more people do this is that a weightlifting hip belt machine is not available at most gyms, and is not mainstream. I know there is a Titan fitness machine for weightlifting with your hip belt, but I also think the problem is that because there are no weightlifting competitions in which you use a hip lifting belt, it is not standardize like a bench press a dead lift or a squat.

Don’t have a number in mind

The proper answer to what your number is, should be “more“.

One thing I like about considering the whole bitcoin economy, the whole world economy is that wealth in capital is infinite. Currently, you consider all of the world’s capital being around $900 trillion, and thinking half of it is for a long-term store of value, 450, trillion, Those are big numbers.

Even if you think about the whole world economy… Being $900 trillion, and even having the ambition of owning one percent of it, this is a good goal.

How and why do we think so small?

I think the first big thing is that we must think global. The biggest problem that I think we face is that we think too insular.

For example, if you live in the states, Los Angeles America California or whatever… Realize that you actually live in a tiny bubble. Even though LA California is huge, still… If you think about it globally, you are just another insignificant dot on the world map.

Let me give you an example… I’m currently voice dictating these lines on my iPad Pro as I walk through the beautiful streets of Phnom Penh Cambodia.  once you make it to Asia Southeast Asia and beyond you will realize how much life sucks in America. Even for the rich.

For example we’re currently doing a short term stay at a lovely serviced luxury apartment here, only about $1400 a month, for light peak luxury. The largest floor to ceiling windows of all time, the best in front of staff, everything insanely brand new and wonderful.

And then I think about being back in America and LA… It is insane you’re buying these like $2 million homes which are built in the 1920s or the 1950s? Why would you spend so much money on decaying capital? 

Certainly there are many upsides of living in America, I think the biggest one is access to capital markets, access to the US stock exchange. For example one difficulty that I am having being here in Asia time is having to either stay up late or wake up at like 1 AM or 2 AM to execute certain orders on the stock exchange, in regards to MSTR stock, or more recently taking a leveraged margin option of purchasing MSTU, which is essentially an ETF which is designed to be 2X levered long MSTR, microstrategy (Strategy) stock.  And after having to wake up super super early in the middle of the night, having to stare at a shiny iPad Pro screen in the middle of the night, disturbing my sleep, feeling like crap the next day, even a funny thought:

All the money in the world is not worth losing a good nights sleep? 

Therefore I think a general idea is that it is better to be more greedy with your energy sleep and time and energy rather than being greedy for money? Because energy sleep and great physical health is worth 1 billion times more than all the money in the world. 

For example, you cannot like inject $1 million into your left butt cheek, hoping that it will give you a good night sleep. No, often the worries about finances will keep you up later tonight, ruin your sleep, and ruin your health.

Even look at Elon Musk, the economic goat, if you just give him a good look and a good stare, in his zoom calls and interviews or whatever… He looks like the worst health of his life. And Elon is notorious for having poor health because he thinks too much like a nerd, I don’t think he really understands the criticality of health. 

And also, I think everyone has his own mission critical mission for their lives. Elon’s goal is to take us to Mars and beyond, this is not my goal is it your goal therefore the way we conduct our lives should be different.

For me my primary concern is the thriving of Seneca, and also, thinking about his kids kids kids. Also for the health of my mom and Cindy, my whole immediate family.

What should I not be concerned about? 

I called this ERIC KIM‘s razor, — to ruthlessly prune away all distractions.

Let me give you an example, I have made like 100,000 times more money by just investing in bitcoin, MSTR stock, and just staying focused, rather than wasting time on text messages, email, or social media.

And I think this is a big thought: in the last like 15 years, there has practically been no financially lucrative opportunities that have ever magically come to me through my email inbox. Therefore ironically enough… I think the secret of becoming richer and wealth you’re making more money is via negativa; not using your email inbox?  

Only news now I consume is Twitter X, anything related to bitcoin. This includes following at @saylor, BTC archive, documenting bitcoin ,,, is where I get like 99.9% of my signal. The rest comes from my morning walks, Zen out, letting my mind go follow, thinking by myself for myself on myself.

a non-material existence

The thing which is always so shocking to me is the second that I settle into life when I am in Asia, I become like 1 trillion times more zen. For example, no more silly cravings for silly vehicles, possessions and stuff, no more desires for Amazon prime or online shopping or purchasing stuff. Rather, a greater focus towards thinking, pursuing creative capital, empowering ideas and thoughts? 

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Why don’t you own Bitcoin?

The worlds first digital commodity 

We’re going to own it, not sell it ,,, get as much of it as we can!

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Progressive or *regressive*?

Nuclear weapons, ships, airplanes 

Overcome your fears 

How to conquer your fears or bitcoin 

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Take everyone along 

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One jolt?

Go far, go together … go fast go alone 

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We don’t have enough –> obvious!

$450T long term capital in the world ,,, 20th century bonds & equity & 20th century art and collectibles 

A $450T opportunity?

$200T, beyond ,,, 2000T$ Bitcoin network?

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Enrich you 

Capital from the 20th century , warehouse in New Jersey … 20 years, just sell it and buy bitcoin 

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Trillions of dollars in value. 

Buy , allow passage of time to enrich you 

Don’t buy, $80T and owned or controlled the network?

Manifest destiny, Thomas Jefferson –> buy Louisiana . Didn’t have the money 

Keep going west 

Texas, California …

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“Responsible for not taking risk”

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“The normie”

It will live in cyberspace 

Million times a second more efficiency 

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80% of USA, for $40M  

You don’t want your worst 

5M bitcoin, 25% of the network 

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The most profound opportunity of the century 

Money there for the taking! ***

America was a youthful country, youthful family –> there for the taking! 

Sovereign money 

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I’m sensitive to the cold 

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The most powerful idea in the world!

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Triumph of natural law > Artificial law ***

Natural — what is natural will and shall happen 

Artificial law 

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Inject virtue & natural law, respect for property rights, freedom and balance into the US government 

Made more virtuous, healthier, more rational ***

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Banks would be more rational, ethical, secure, better actors 

Digital assets strategy 

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The digital token, utility. 

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100x demand 

Big winners, US dollar & issuers 

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Export trillions of dollars of our securities to the world 

Currency, security, token, commodities –> $100T value created through innovation 

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400,000 companies can raise capital –> create token!

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ERIC TOKEN –> 

STREETTOGS token?

–> composition checker token?

Token for your time,,, life as an arcade?

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Millions of millions of tokens circulating 

Digital Assets Framework written into law 

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Cambrian explosion 

All the entrepreneurs and capital comes to the US

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Every single day, learning something new about Bitcoin!

Never will complete understand it ,,, mysteries of the future 

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UPSIZING

STRATEGY IS WINNING

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Make your money work for you –> path to wealth 

Path to value creation 

Make your balance sheet work for you 

–> think of myself as a company?

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60x growth, balance sheet in 5 years –> .7B to $42B in Bitcoin 

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Come up with some creative ideas!

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Follow your gut 

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$300T in fixed income market, I want 1% of it –> $3T

FOCUS.

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Cheap goods from China are not the American dream

“Let them eat flatscreens” is not the dream!

Let them eat iPhones is not the American dream!

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Outside the self help bubble 

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What do we *really* need?

Growth rate -> ability to raise capital 

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$6B of capital 

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$4B in capital, $18B in capital, $5.2B of capital raise 

$300T , fixed income … $200B of capital raise easy 

Keep growing 20% a year!

Growth rate –> Bitcoin growth rate, 60%, 95% each year by levering ,,, 

$50B company, raising 30% a year 

We aren’t going to stop! 

Least risky –> sell $10B or more of fixed income preferred … convertible bond market , de-lever with equity 

Go as fast as the capital markets allow us!

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Open and close on a dime 

$15B of equity open, then close?

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Open, then close … 

Proprietary  fixed income etf , STRF … strife 

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Investment grade, 42x over collateralized