I Am Asif

As a part the  2023 5th INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON SUSTAINABLE TECHNOLOGIES FOR INDUSTRY 5.0 (STI 2023)  conference at  Green University of Bangladesh , we recently had an engaging dialogue between some brilliant minds from the fields of technology, industry and academia. Together we explored the realms of technology advancement, local expertise growth, collaboration strategies, sustainability practices, and Bangladesh's trajectory for the next decade. We had the privilege of having with us Prof. Dr.  Khondaker A. Mamun, PhD , a veteran in the fields of technology development, entrepreneurship and academic research; one of the leading AI experts from our own country and founder of  Intelligent Machines ,  Mohammad Oli Ahad ; visionary young industrialist  Golam Murshed ; and industry expert with a vast experience Engr. Md. Selim Reza. The session was chaired by none other than  Prof. Md.G. Samdani Fakir , our former vice chancellor and a legendar...

There are so many pieces of tech that we directly or indirectly benefit from that we take for granted completely. The sewing machine has been around for more than 200 years. Every piece of clothing we've ever worn surely has come through some sort of a sewing machine. But have we ever wondered about the brilliance of the human mind over several decades that's behind the development of this mechanical marvel? Yet another brilliant video by one of my favorite channels  @veritasium  !

 How should you react if your perspective is challenged? There is no doubt that generative AI models are hampering the development of original content. Previously aspiring writers had to spend days to read and study a particular writing style and then try to implement that tone into their own writing. Now they can simply paste a sample text and ask GPT models to write something for them in similar tone and language. This threat to original writing content is simply common sense and is quite naturally acknowledged even by AI developers. This should be quite easy to acknowledge, right? Well today I came across a profile who claims to 'help people become efficient academic writers with the help of AI'. Ok so far. But in one post he said the following: "A lot of folks think ChatGPT will kill original writing. Apps like ChatGPT will make original writing insanely profitable. The better writer you are, the better instructions you will be able to write for customizing chatbots. T...

This is the kind of passion that I admire so much (and feel so jealous of). This guy built a fully transparent, fully functional engine, all by himself using simple machining tools in his garage. All by hand. If only us teachers had a slight portion of such enthusiasm to learn and teach. Tiny bits of creativity, just a few moments of thinking outside the box, could take our teaching-learning experience to a whole new level. Instead.... we just stick to the old PowerPoint slides that we made ten years ago when we started our teaching career. Because it's the easy way out.

Explore a thought-provoking discussion in a world filled with noise and distractions. Learn how to centralize your listening skills for personal growth, enriching relationships, and deepening your spiritual connection in this recommended podcast episode. Join Shaykh Mikaeel Ahmed Smith from the prestigious Qalam Institute in Dallas, Texas, as he shares insights from his latest publication, 'When Hearing Becomes Listening: The Art of Prophetic Listening'. Discover the transformative power of attentive listening and its potential to elevate various aspects of your life. Link to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/onepath-podcast/id1505436317?i=1000626429274

This book is one of my absolute favorites. Unlock the power of Stoic wisdom, one page at a time. This beautifully packaged daily devotional is your gateway into the profound world of Stoic philosophy.

Discover a truly inspiring story in this podcast episode featuring Andrew Leland. As a teenager, Andrew was diagnosed with a condition that gradually diminished his vision. However, instead of letting this challenge narrow his view of life, he's expanded his horizons in incredible ways.  In this engaging conversation, Andrew not only delves into the profound life lessons he's gained through his transition into blindness but also provides invaluable insights into the rich culture of blindness and disability. You'll be moved by his perspective on navigating change and find yourself drawn into a world where accessibility practices are infused with joy and humor. Andrew Leland, a gifted writer, teacher, and audio producer, shares his experiences and wisdom, offering a unique and eye-opening take on what it means to embrace life's twists and turns. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that will challenge your perceptions and leave you with a profound sense of the bo...

Perfection is not the goal. Being perfect is almost impossible, and it depends on so many external factors. But what you can actually try to be is …. better. Better than yesterday. Better than last month. Better than last year. Better than last semester. Better than your last job. No matter by how much, just strive to improve, just a little bit, bit by bit.

I've got a fantastic recommendation for you this week: "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" by the awesome Mark Manson .  This book is an absolute game-changer in the world of self-help. It tosses out the idea that we should be endlessly cheerful and instead encourages us to embrace life's ups and downs. With wit and wisdom, Manson shows us the power of focusing on what truly matters. If you're ready for a no-nonsense, laugh-out-loud journey toward personal growth, this book is an absolute must-read! More about the book on Goodreads.

Highly recommend Nir Eyal's session in Talks at Google, in which the author basically summarizes his book 'Indistractable' in about 30 mins! 🚀 💡My 5 Key takeaways from the talk: 1. Intent Matters: Traction vs. Distraction hinges on intent. 2. Hidden Distractions: Recognize unnoticed distractions. 3. Work-Related Traps: Even work can distract if unplanned. 4. Time Management = Pain Management: Understand what distractions cost. 5. Time Boxing: Replace to-do lists with focused time blocks. Here's the full talk: 

"Breath" by James Nestor is a groundbreaking exploration of the often-overlooked yet profoundly vital act of breathing. Nestor takes readers on a global journey, unearthing the hidden science behind ancient breathing practices and presenting cutting-edge research that challenges our understanding of this fundamental bodily function.  Through captivating storytelling and meticulous research, the book unveils how proper breathing can enhance athletic performance, rejuvenate internal organs, combat health issues like asthma and autoimmune diseases, and even correct spinal deformities. "Breath" is a compelling reminder that something as simple as adjusting our breath can lead to remarkable transformations in our health and well-being. Whether you're seeking personal growth, better health, or just a captivating non-fiction read, this book will leave you with a profound appreciation for the power of breath.   More details on Goodreads

This week I'm sharing an insightful episode from the ReThinking podcast (hosted by one of my favorite authors Adam Grant) featuring therapist and bestselling author Nedra Glover Tawwab, where she discusses the importance of setting boundaries in both personal and professional life. She delves into why many struggle with this concept and how it connects to self-respect. Highly recommend if you're into personal growth and mental well-being.

This week I'm recommending a book from one of my favorite writers, Ryan Holiday. In " Stillness Is the Key ," Ryan Holiday explores a crucial quality that distinguishes great leaders, artists, athletes, and thinkers: stillness . Drawing on insights from historical figures such as Confucius, Seneca, Marcus Aurelius, and more, Holiday argues that stillness is not mere inactivity but a gateway to self-mastery, focus, and discipline . The book showcases examples of individuals who harnessed the power of stillness, like Sadaharu Oh, Winston Churchill, Fred Rogers, and Anne Frank. In today's fast-paced world filled with distractions, "Stillness Is the Key" provides an inspiring remedy, offering a path to meaning, contentment, and excellence amid the chaos of modern life.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Unexplainable show, the podcast explores the potential risks and unknowns associated with artificial intelligence (AI) decision-making. It discusses how engineers struggle to understand and predict the outcomes of AI systems, leading to unexpected and sometimes harmful results. The podcast emphasizes the need for interpretability and monitoring of AI while questioning the rush to deploy AI in critical decision-making processes, calling for caution and regulation. By examining the dangers of unchecked AI, the episode raises the vital question: Are the potential benefits worth the risks involved? Share the post and spread the discussion! Drop your thoughts in the comments section!

Time for this week's drop! This time I'm recommending one of my all time favorite books! Digital overload getting you down? Check out 'Digital Minimalism' by Cal Newport! This book offers practical strategies for decluttering your tech life and living a more focused and intentional existence. Learn from real-life examples and discover how to reconnect with your inner self through periods of solitude. Don't let technology use you – use it to support your goals and values.

Hey everyone! As announced earlier, I'm kicking off my weekly podcast and book recommendation series, right here, right now! For the first installment, I'm sharing an episode from one of my favorite shows, Hidden Brain.  In this thought-provoking episode, psychologist Erica Boothby sheds light on our tendency to underestimate how much others genuinely like us, especially during initial meetings. The episode explores the intriguing concept of social illusions that subtly distort our self-perception . Join me as we delve into the fascinating reasons behind this phenomenon and discover how gaining insights into our social interactions can lead to a better understanding of ourselves. Stay curious, keep exploring, and don't miss this illuminating episode! Share the post with others in your network. Drop a comment to let me know your thoughts! Listen on any podcast app or service :  https://lnkd.in/gBdP9CqJ

Gentle rain falling on a tarp. Soothing sights and sounds with recitation from The Quran!  Recently I was getting some stuff done under a tarp while it was raining lightly. I looked up for a while and I was mesmerized by the amazing beauty of the raindrops! Couldn't resist sharing a slice of my experience with you!

দুই ঘন্টা লম্বা তারাবীহ মাত্র শেষ হলো।  তারাবীহের সময়ে মসজিদের ভেতরের লাইটগুলো বন্ধ থাকে, নামাজ শেষ হতেই এক সাথে অনেকগুলো লাইট জ্বলে উঠে, আর সবাই চোখ পিট্ পিট্ করতে করতে মসজিদ থেকে বের হতে থাকে। এই ব্যাপারটা দেখতে আমার কেন জানি খুব মজা লাগে। কিছুক্ষণ বসে থেকে লোকজনের চোখ পিট্ পিট্ দেখি, তারপর নিজেও রওনা দেই।  সেদিন অবশ্য বাসায় না গিয়ে মসজিদের দক্ষিণ পূর্ব কোণাটায় গিয়ে পা ছড়িয়ে বসে পড়লাম। দীর্ঘ নামাজে আজকাল পা ধরে আসে। নামাজ শেষ হলেও সাত আটজন মুসল্লি মসজিদের এই কোণায় জড়ো হয়েছে। একটু পরেই এক ভাই চা নিয়ে আসলো পেপার কাপে। চা খেয়ে চাঙ্গা হয়ে ওরা আবার নফল নামাজে দাঁড়ানোর প্রস্তুতি নিচ্ছে! চা শেষ করে কাতার বানিয়ে দাঁড়িয়ে গেলো তারা। নামাজ পড়াতে সবার সামনে এগিয়ে গেলো একজন। বারো কি তেরো বছরের ছেলে। শুরু করলো তিলাওয়াত।  সে হাফেজ যুবায়ের আবদুল্লাহ।  আমাদের 'যুবুন পাতা'।  ------------------------------------- আমার ভাগনে যুবায়েরের জন্ম আমার গ্র্যাজুয়েশনের ঠিক পর পর। আল্লাহর প্ল্যান অনুযায়ী এর পরে ছয়টা মাস আমি কমপ্লিটলি বেকার! তাই যুবায়েরকে কোলে কাঁখে করার জন্য ওর বাবা মা'র পর...