How I Use Glasp to Highlight & Take Notes on the Internet and Embrace the Philosophy of Kyūdō

How I Use Glasp to Highlight & Take Notes on the Internet and Embrace the Philosophy of Kyūdō

In today's digital age, where information is abundant and easily accessible, it can be overwhelming to keep track of all the articles and resources we come across. Before the advent of tools like Glasp, I would find myself juggling between multiple browser windows, using one to read an article and another to take notes on a separate platform like Roam. It was a cumbersome process that often hindered my ability to fully engage with the content.

Fortunately, Glasp has revolutionized the way I interact with online articles. With its browser extension, I can now simply highlight and take notes directly within the article itself. This eliminates the need for separate windows and allows me to be fully present in the moment, absorbing the information and capturing my thoughts in real-time.

What sets Glasp apart from traditional read-it-later apps is its "read-it-now" approach. Rather than saving articles for later, Glasp encourages immediate engagement. As I read through an article, if something stands out to me, I can effortlessly select it, highlight it, and jot down my thoughts, all within the browser window. This not only helps me stay organized but also prevents me from accumulating a backlog of unread articles that I may never get to.

One unique feature of Glasp is its public profile, where every highlight and note I make is visible to those who follow me. This aspect of transparency and sharing adds a new dimension to my online presence. By exposing my reading habits and insights, I invite others to join in the conversation and offer their perspectives. It's like having a digital community of fellow learners and thinkers who read in different algorithmic circles, exposing me to articles I may have otherwise missed. This enriches my learning experience and broadens my horizons.

As a creator, curation plays a significant role in my work, both in my weekly newsletter and on my website. Glasp seamlessly integrates with my website, keeping it constantly updated with the articles I'm reading. This not only showcases my writing but also gives my audience an insight into my intellectual journey. By paying attention to what I consume, my audience gains a deeper understanding of my thought process and the influences that shape my ideas.

The benefits of using Glasp extend beyond the realm of personal growth and creativity. It aligns with the philosophy of Kyūdō, the Japanese martial art of archery, where the process is valued more than the end goal. In Kyūdō, the master emphasizes the importance of focusing on the way one aims rather than fixating on hitting the target. Similarly, Glasp encourages us to prioritize our aims rather than obsess over achieving specific goals.

When we approach our tasks and aspirations with the mindset of aiming, we shift our focus to the present moment. We become attuned to the intricacies of the process, such as how we hold the metaphorical bow, our stance, and our breathing while releasing the arrow. By immersing ourselves in the process, we find fulfillment in the journey itself, regardless of whether we reach a predetermined finish line.

This philosophy of embracing the process aligns with the idea that success is not solely measured by the end result. Instead, success lies in the enjoyment and growth we experience throughout the journey. As Thomas Fuller, an influential English writer, once wrote, "A good archer is not known by their arrows but by their aim." Similarly, when we focus on our aims rather than fixating on the end goals, we learn how to design a daily life that is fulfilling in its own right.

In conclusion, Glasp has transformed the way I interact with online articles, allowing me to seamlessly highlight and take notes within the browser itself. Its read-it-now approach keeps me engaged and present in the moment, while the public profile feature fosters a sense of community and exposes me to diverse perspectives. Furthermore, Glasp's integration with my website enhances my role as a curator and allows my audience to gain insights into my intellectual journey. By embracing the philosophy of Kyūdō and prioritizing the process over the end goal, we can find fulfillment in every step we take.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Embrace the read-it-now approach: Instead of perpetually saving articles for later, make a conscious effort to read and engage with them in the present moment. Use tools like Glasp to highlight and take notes directly within the browser window to enhance your learning experience.

• 2. Share your insights and engage with others: Consider creating a public profile or using platforms that allow you to share your reading habits and thoughts. By exposing your ideas to others, you invite collaboration and open yourself up to a wider range of perspectives.

• 3. Focus on the process, not just the end goal: Adopt a mindset that prioritizes the journey rather than fixating on the destination. By immersing yourself in the process and finding joy in the present moment, you can experience a sense of fulfillment regardless of the outcome.

Remember, success is not solely defined by reaching a specific goal but by the growth and enjoyment we derive from the process itself.