On the journey of life, everyone faces different choices and pursuits, which often reflect their mindset and level of existence. People can be categorized into three different types based on the way they think. There are three different mindsets among people: the Grassroot Mindset, the Elite Mindset, and the Extraordinary Mindset. Each mindset has its unique logic and value orientation, which shape people’s attitude towards life and their approaches.
First Level: the Grassroot Mindset
Grassroots mindset is based on a public mentality. For people thinking in this way, life has no clear goals. All the efforts and struggles are for the better now. They may seek daily comfort, short-term happiness, or simple satisfaction, prioritizing immediate enjoyment over long-term planning. As a result, they are more likely to go with the flow in life, lacking a long-term vision and profound reflection on life.
Grassroots thinking is often prevalent at the lower levels of society, as it is closely related to urgency in pursuing immediate profits and safety. Under the pressures of life, many people would choose this mindset, because it is simple, direct, and provides a sense of content in the short term. However, the downside of grassroot thinking is also obvious. It traps individuals in complacency, dilutes their ambition and makes it difficult to break free from their current lifestyle and self-perception.
Grassroots thinking isn’t limited to those at the bottom of society; many people with social resources also fail to plan effectively and think long-term. A notable example is the Roman Emperor Nero, notorious for his extravagant lifestyle and indulgence. His reign was marked by a lack of clear political goals or a vision for the future, as he prioritized personal pleasure over state affairs. Nero had a deep passion for music and the arts, often performing on stage, while remaining indifferent to governance. During the Great Fire of Rome, there were rumors that he played the lyre and sang while the city was engulfed in flames.
Nero’s behavior represents the shortsightedness and self-centeredness of grassroots thinking. He lacked higher ideals or a sense of social responsibility, focusing solely on personal sensory pleasures, which ultimately led to public rebellion and his own downfall. His rule is also considered a significant reason for the decline of the Roman Empire due to its extravagance and brutality. This shows that when grassroots thinking manifests in those in power, the dangers are even greater; without vision and responsibility, it can lead to a dual failure for both individuals and society.
Second Level: the Elite Mindset
Elite thinking is based on seeking “the best” and “the extraordinary” in the mainstream values. Life is no longer about easy pleasures but money, power, and social status. For people with this mindset, one can gain whatever they want through ongoing efforts and relentless attempts. Therefore, these people tend to have clear goals and strive to improve personal values and achieve success.
This mindset is often found among those who grow up with financial advantages or privileged backgrounds, but also among people who work hard to improve themselves. Elite thinking drives people to push their limits and become a go-getter for higher achievements and social status. However, these people often place too much emphasis on personal success and social recognition, which may lead to a disconnection from inner needs and the deeper meanings of life. It might also cause a lack of compassion for others and emotional coldness, making it difficult for them to connect genuinely with themselves and others.
Napoleon Bonaparte is a prime example of elite thinking. He started out in a humble background but worked tirelessly and showcased incredible military skills to become the Emperor of the First French Empire. His main goal was to build a powerful empire through constant warfare and expansion, driven by his personal ambitions. Throughout his career, he faced numerous challenges and was fueled by his ambition, rising from an ordinary officer to the emperor who ruled over Europe, always chasing the heights of power.
Napoleon’s elite thinking is reflected in his desire for power and relentless pursuit of achievement. Through his personal efforts and leadership abilities, he gained widespread social status and historical influence. However, his failures also remind us that an excessive pursuit of material wealth and power can lead to the neglect of other important values.
Third Level: the Extraordinary Mindset
The core idea behind the extraordinary mindset is all about « love and compassion. » In this way of thinking, life doesn’t necessarily have a specific goal. However, because they deeply understand the struggles of others, people often feel empathy and a desire to help those in need. At their heart, those with this mindset aim to serve others and ease their suffering. This isn’t something forced upon them; it comes from a genuine understanding of human pain and a selfless concern for others.
Interestingly, people with an extraordinary mindset often come from humble backgrounds rather than privileged ones. Their life experiences give them a deep understanding of life’s struggles, which drives them to take on responsibility for others’ suffering instead of just looking out for their own interests. This mindset not only gives them strong inner strength but also helps them develop a broader perspective and a higher sense of purpose.
Mahatma Gandhi is a great example of the extraordinary mindset. Born into a regular family in India, he became a lawyer and had the chance to live a more comfortable life, but he chose to lead the fight for independence instead. He promoted the idea of « non-violent non-cooperation » and often went on hunger strikes to protest for the well-being of the people and social justice, willingly enduring physical pain. His goal wasn’t about seeking personal honor or wealth. Instead, he aimed to change society through his actions and help people break free from colonial oppression.
Gandhi’s extraordinary mindset shines through in how he put love and compassion at the center of his actions, rising above personal interests. He was committed to serving humanity and tackling social injustices and suffering. His ideas and actions have had a lasting impact, not just in India but also offering valuable inspiration for peace movements around the world.
Through the stories of these historical figures, we see various life attitudes and how different mindsets shape their paths and achievements. These mindsets influence individual lifestyles and leave distinct marks on history.
