Hi, I am Mesut, studied Economics and I’ve been working as an International Banking Specialist at Halkbank for 5+ years. I managed correspondent relations with 70+ banks in 20+ countries in trade finance transactions in this period. I'm also an Internal Excel Instructor passionate about helping people who struggle with MS Office programs. In addition to my profession, I have had to honor to mentor many students in my immediate circle from all walks of life of all ages and all backgrounds. I am pretty interested in non-profit organizations and social enterprises and also have experience volunteering for NGOs. I can help you with topics around my expertises like working in an international relations department in a Bank, being an Instructor, or just finding your right career path in banking, or in the finance sector. Tell me about what you have on your mind right now and I'm sure we can learn from each other.
My Mentoring Topics
- Correspondent Banking
- International Relations
- Being Instructor & Tutor
- Banking Career Advice
- Career Development
- Volunteering at NGOs
Mesut didn't receive any reviews yet.
You need to be logged in to schedule a session with this mentor. Please sign in here or create an account.
Atomic Habits
James Clear
Key Facts/Insights from "Atomic Habits" The Power of 1% Improvement: Small, incremental improvements or changes can have a significant impact over time. This is known as the "aggregation of marginal gains." Habits vs. Goals: Clear argues that focusing on systems (habits) rather than outcomes (goals) is more effective for long-term success. Four Laws of Behavior Change: The laws of cue, craving, response, and reward are essential for habit formation and breaking. Habit Stacking: This is a concept where you link a new habit to an existing one, which helps in making the new habit stick. Environment Design: Changing your environment can make it easier to cultivate good habits and get rid of bad ones. Identity-Based Habits: Your habits shape your identity, and vice versa. Changing your habits can lead to profound changes in your self-image. Delayed Gratification: Good habits often have delayed rewards, while bad habits often offer immediate pleasure but long-term pain. Golden Rule of Habit Change: Make it obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying. Breaking Bad Habits: Clear provides practical strategies to break bad habits, such as making them unattractive, difficult, and unsatisfying. Habit Tracking: This is a simple way to measure your progress and keep yourself accountable. Never Miss Twice: If you miss a day, make it a point to get back on track the next day. This prevents you from spiraling into a cycle of repeated failure. Detailed Summary and Analysis "Atomic Habits" by James Clear provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how habits work and how they can be changed. The book's core message is the concept of the power of 1% improvement. This concept, also known as the "aggregation of marginal gains," is about making small, incremental changes consistently over a long period. This aligns with the well-established principle of compound interest in finance and the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement in Japanese manufacturing. Clear distinguishes between habits and goals. While most self-help literature focuses on setting and achieving goals, Clear argues that it's more effective to focus on the systems (habits) that lead to those outcomes. This is a significant shift in perspective that has profound implications for personal growth and development. The book introduces the Four Laws of Behavior Change (make it obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying), which are essential for habit formation and breaking. These laws provide a practical framework for understanding and manipulating the habit loop, a concept first introduced by Charles Duhigg in "The Power of Habit." Habit stacking is a powerful strategy for habit formation. It involves linking a new habit to an existing one, thereby leveraging the existing habit's cue and reward to reinforce the new habit. This concept is akin to the psychological principle of classical conditioning, first proposed by Ivan Pavlov. Environment design is another key element in habit formation. Clear argues that by changing our environment, we can make it easier to cultivate good habits and get rid of bad ones. This is consistent with the field of environmental psychology, which studies the interplay between people and their physical surroundings. One of the most profound ideas in the book is the concept of identity-based habits. Clear posits that our habits shape our identity, and vice versa. By changing our habits, we can effect profound changes in our self-image. This is a powerful psychological insight that has been validated by numerous studies in the field of social psychology. The book also discusses the importance of delayed gratification. Good habits often have delayed rewards, while bad habits often offer immediate pleasure but long-term pain. This concept is closely related to the Stanford Marshmallow Experiment, a famous psychological study on self-control. The Golden Rule of Habit Change is a practical guideline for implementing the Four Laws of Behavior Change. It provides a simple, memorable way to remember and apply these laws in everyday life. Clear provides practical strategies for breaking bad habits, such as making them unattractive, difficult, and unsatisfying. These strategies are grounded in the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, a well-established psychological approach to changing behavior. The book also promotes the use of habit tracking, a simple way to measure your progress and keep yourself accountable. This concept is supported by the field of behavior modification, which emphasizes the importance of self-monitoring in behavior change. Finally, the book introduces the rule of "Never Miss Twice". If you miss a day, make it a point to get back on track the next day. This prevents you from spiraling into a cycle of repeated failure. This rule is a practical application of the psychological principle of resilience, the ability to bounce back from failure or adversity. Overall, "Atomic Habits" provides a comprehensive, science-based framework for understanding and changing habits. It combines insights from various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics, to provide a practical guide for personal growth and development.
ViewNudge - Improving Decisions about Health, Wealth, and Happiness
Richard H. Thaler, Cass R. Sunstein
Key Insights from "Nudge - Improving Decisions about Health, Wealth, and Happiness" Choice Architecture: The idea that the way choices are presented influences the decisions we make. Libertarian Paternalism: A concept that allows individuals to make their own choices but nudges them towards choices that will benefit them. Heuristics and Biases: Humans often rely on simplified rules of thumb (heuristics) and have cognitive biases that affect their decision-making process. Defaults: People often go with the default option due to inertia or complexity of choices. Therefore, setting beneficial defaults can improve decision-making. Feedback: Providing feedback can help individuals understand the consequences of their actions and adjust their behaviors accordingly. Expect Errors: Systems should be designed to minimize the harm of inevitable human errors. Structured Choices: Organizing choices in a way that simplifies decision-making can help individuals make better decisions. Incentives: Understanding and aligning incentives can motivate individuals to make better decisions. Understanding Mappings: People struggle to understand the relationship between choices and outcomes, so simplifying this mapping can improve decision-making. Complexity: The complexity of choices can overwhelm individuals and lead to poor decisions. Market Forces: While market forces can sometimes correct for poor decision-making, they can also exacerbate the problem. An In-Depth Analysis of "Nudge" In "Nudge - Improving Decisions about Health, Wealth, and Happiness," authors Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein explore how we make decisions and how those decisions can be influenced in subtle ways. The book focuses on the concept of "choice architecture," which suggests that the way choices are presented can greatly influence the decisions we make. The authors introduce the concept of Libertarian Paternalism, a philosophy that encourages systems and institutions to nudge people towards decisions that are in their best interest, while still allowing them the freedom to choose. This approach is grounded in a realistic understanding of human behavior and recognizes that people often make suboptimal choices due to cognitive biases and heuristics. Heuristics are mental shortcuts or rules of thumb that humans use to simplify decision-making. While these can sometimes lead to efficient and effective decisions, they can also lead to systematic errors or biases. For instance, people often suffer from status quo bias, preferring to stick with the current state of affairs due to inertia or fear of change. This insight has important implications for choice architecture, as it suggests that setting beneficial defaults can have a significant impact on decision-making. Feedback is another crucial element in the decision-making process. When individuals understand the consequences of their actions, they are more likely to adjust their behaviors accordingly. Thus, systems should be designed to provide clear and timely feedback. However, even with feedback, errors are inevitable. The authors argue that systems should be designed with the expectation of human error and aim to minimize the harm caused by these errors. Structured choices can also simplify decision-making. By organizing choices in a way that makes the trade-offs clear and easy to understand, individuals are more likely to make decisions that align with their values and goals. Incentives play a crucial role in decision-making. By understanding what motivates individuals and aligning incentives accordingly, systems can nudge individuals towards better decisions. Mappings refer to the relationship between choices and outcomes. People often struggle with complex mappings, so simplifying these can lead to better decision-making. The complexity of choices can also overwhelm individuals, leading to decision paralysis or poor decisions. Systems should aim to reduce complexity and make choices more manageable. Finally, the authors discuss the role of market forces. While these can sometimes correct for poor decision-making, they can also exacerbate biases and lead to harmful outcomes. Therefore, it's important to consider the potential impact of market forces when designing choice architecture. In conclusion, "Nudge" provides a comprehensive exploration of how we make decisions and how those decisions can be influenced for the better. By understanding the concepts presented in this book, we can design systems that nudge individuals towards decisions that improve their health, wealth, and happiness. The authors' insights into human behavior and decision-making are invaluable for anyone interested in behavioral economics, public policy, or simply making better decisions in their own lives.
ViewWhy We Sleep - Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
Matthew Walker
Key Insights from "Why We Sleep - Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams" by Matthew Walker Every function in the body, from brain to metabolic health, is significantly affected by sleep. Insufficient sleep is a key lifestyle factor determining whether or not you will develop Alzheimer’s disease. Regularly sleeping less than six or seven hours a night demolishes your immune system and doubles your risk of cancer. Insufficient sleep disrupts blood sugar levels and appetite control, contributing to weight gain and diabetes. Adolescents who do not get enough sleep are more likely to develop mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. While we sleep, our brains are busy processing, consolidating, and making sense of the day’s experiences. REM sleep, where most dreaming occurs, plays a crucial role in emotional regulation and creative problem-solving. Regular, predictable sleep schedules are crucial for quality sleep and overall health. Technology, particularly the blue light from screens, disrupts our natural sleep patterns. There are significant societal consequences due to widespread sleep deprivation, including accidents, decreased productivity, and impaired learning. Even moderate alcohol and caffeine consumption can seriously disrupt sleep. An In-depth Analysis of "Why We Sleep - Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams" Matthew Walker's "Why We Sleep" provides a comprehensive examination of the crucial role sleep plays in every aspect of human life. The book is a wake-up call (excuse the pun) to a society that often undervalues and neglects sleep. Walker makes it clear that sleep is not a passive, unproductive state. Instead, sleep is a complex and active process that supports various physiological and neurological functions. During sleep, the body undergoes a series of processes, such as cellular repair, metabolic regulation, immune system strengthening, and toxin removal from the brain. Walker's emphasis on the systemic impact of sleep is a crucial insight that underscores how sleep affects not just our energy levels and mood, but our overall health. Central to Walker's argument is the link between insufficient sleep and chronic diseases. He notes that regular sleep deprivation increases the risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity, among others. This connection is particularly important in light of the modern epidemic of these diseases, suggesting that improving sleep health could be a key strategy in their prevention and management. Walker also explores the role of sleep in brain function, including memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and creativity. He explains how the different stages of sleep, from deep NREM sleep to REM sleep, contribute to these processes. This understanding of sleep's cognitive benefits reaffirms the importance of quality sleep for learning, productivity, and mental wellbeing. Adolescent sleep is a particular focus in the book. Walker highlights how the circadian rhythm shifts during adolescence, leading to later sleep and wake times. This biological change clashes with early school start times, resulting in chronic sleep deprivation among teenagers. He provides compelling evidence linking this sleep loss to increased risk of mental health issues, poor academic performance, and even suicidal tendencies. Walker's discussion on the societal implications of sleep deprivation is equally thought-provoking. He delves into the effects of sleep deprivation on workplace productivity, public safety (considering the role of sleep deprivation in major industrial accidents), and even the judicial system (given the impact of sleep on decision-making and moral reasoning). The book also tackles the influence of modern lifestyle factors on sleep, including technology use, irregular sleep schedules, and substance use. Walker provides practical advice on how to mitigate these factors, emphasizing the importance of maintaining regular sleep patterns, limiting exposure to blue light from screens, and being cautious with alcohol and caffeine consumption. "Why We Sleep" is an urgent call to prioritize and respect our need for sleep. It's a compelling read that combines scientific rigor with a clear, accessible style. Whether you're a sleep scientist like myself or a layperson interested in improving your health, this book offers invaluable insights into the vital, yet often ignored, one-third of our lives we spend asleep.
View
mindset - The New Psychology of Success
Carol Dweck
Key Insights from "Mindset - The New Psychology of Success" Our mindset, either fixed or growth, determines our perspective towards facing challenges and achieving success. Fixed Mindset people believe that their intelligence and talents are inborn and unchangeable, which can inhibit growth and learning. Growth Mindset people understand that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work, which leads to a love for learning and resilience. Our mindset can influence our relationships, passion for work and hobbies, and overall happiness. Parents, educators, and managers can encourage a growth mindset in others. The brain is much more malleable than previously believed, which proves that we can develop our abilities. Changing our mindset can lead to a significant improvement in our performance and productivity. Praising the process rather than the intelligence or talent encourages a growth mindset. Embracing failure as a learning opportunity promotes growth mindset. Effort is just as important as ability when it comes to achieving success. In-depth analysis of "Mindset - The New Psychology of Success" In her groundbreaking book, Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck delves into the concept of "mindset" and how our beliefs about our abilities can impact all areas of our lives. She introduces two fundamental mindsets: fixed and growth. Our perception of success, approach towards challenges, and overall happiness can be significantly influenced by our mindset. Fixed Mindset individuals believe their intelligence and abilities are static traits, and they spend their time documenting their intelligence or talent instead of developing them. They also believe that talent alone, without effort, leads to success. They are wrong. This mindset can limit their potential and inhibit their growth, as they are less likely to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, see effort as a path to mastery, learn from criticism, and find lessons and inspiration in the success of others. On the other hand, Growth Mindset individuals believe that their abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. This view creates a love for learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment. They understand that intelligence and talents are just the starting point and that these can be developed over time. They are more likely to embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, see effort as a path to mastery, learn from criticism, and find lessons and inspiration in the success of others. Dweck goes on to discuss how our mindset is formed and how it can be influenced by our surroundings. She emphasizes that parents, educators, and managers can cultivate a growth mindset in others by praising the process rather than the intelligence or talent, encouraging effort, perseverance, and improvement over innate ability. The book also provides insights into the malleability of the brain, debunking the myth that our abilities are fixed. The concept of neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life, supports the premise of a growth mindset. It provides evidence that we can indeed increase our intellectual abilities, change our personalities, and create new habits. Another essential insight from the book is the power of failure as a learning opportunity. Embracing failure, instead of avoiding it, can lead to growth and improvement. This idea aligns with the growth mindset and encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and take calculated risks. In conclusion, "Mindset - The New Psychology of Success" reinforces the idea that our mindset can significantly influence our success. Understanding the difference between a fixed and a growth mindset and recognizing the impact of our beliefs on our behavior can lead to personal and professional development. By adopting a growth mindset, we can increase our potential, embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, see effort as a path to mastery, learn from criticism, and find lessons and inspiration in the success of others.
ViewMemed, My Hawk
Yashar Kemal
Key Facts and Insights from "Memed, My Hawk" Depiction of Oppression: The book vividly portrays the harsh realities of feudal oppression in Anatolia, Turkey. Transformation of Memed: The protagonist, Memed, undergoes a transformation from a poor, oppressed villager to a famed outlaw, driven by a desire for justice. Heroism and Rebellion: Memed's story symbolizes the struggle against tyranny, with strong themes of heroism and rebellion. Social Realism: Yashar Kemal uses a social realist style to depict the economic, political, and social conditions of rural Turkey. Humanistic and Romantic Idealism: Despite the grim realities it depicts, the book upholds humanistic and romantic ideals of freedom, justice, and love. Role of Nature: Nature plays a significant role in the book, with the stark beauty of the Anatolian landscape serving as a backdrop to the story. Symbolism: The hawk in the title symbolizes Memed's spirit of freedom and rebellion. Oral Tradition: The book draws heavily on the rich oral tradition of Anatolian folklore, with its vivid storytelling and colorful characters. Political Commentary: The book provides a critique of feudalism and the oppressive structures of rural Turkish society. An In-depth Analysis of "Memed, My Hawk" "Memed, My Hawk" by Yashar Kemal is a compelling exploration of the themes of oppression, rebellion, and the struggle for justice. The protagonist, Memed, is born into a life of poverty and servitude in a small village in Anatolia, under the oppressive rule of the local landowner, Abdi Agha. His transformation from humble villager to outlaw hero forms the crux of the narrative. The book paints a vivid picture of the harsh realities of life in rural Turkey in the early 20th century. Kemal's social realist style captures the economic, political, and social conditions of the time, highlighting the deep-seated inequality and injustice inherent in the feudal system. The detailed portrayal of oppression serves as a powerful critique of the feudal structures that dominated rural Turkish society. Memed's rebellion against Abdi Agha is driven by his longing for justice and his desire to free his fellow villagers from the yoke of oppression. His transformation into a Robin Hood-like figure, who robs from the rich to help the poor, symbolizes the struggle against tyranny. Memed's heroism is further underscored by his unwavering commitment to his ideals, despite the personal sacrifices he must make. At the same time, the book is imbued with a sense of humanistic and romantic idealism. Memed's love for Hatche, a fellow villager, adds a poignant dimension to his story. Despite the grim realities they face, their love endures, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Nature plays a significant role in the narrative, with the stark beauty of the Anatolian landscape providing a backdrop to the drama unfolding within its confines. The harsh, rugged terrain mirrors the harshness of the villagers' lives, yet it also offers a sense of freedom and escape from the oppressive social structures. The hawk in the title symbolizes Memed's indomitable spirit. Just as a hawk soars free above the earth, so too does Memed aspire to rise above his circumstances and fight for freedom and justice. Throughout the book, Kemal draws heavily on the rich oral tradition of Anatolian folklore. The vivid storytelling, memorable characters, and moral lessons reflect this influence, giving the narrative a timeless quality that resonates with readers across different cultures and generations. In conclusion, "Memed, My Hawk" is a powerful exploration of the themes of oppression, rebellion, and the struggle for justice. Through the transformative journey of its protagonist, the book offers a poignant critique of feudalism, while also celebrating the human spirit's capacity for resilience, heroism, and love.
View