-Merck Foundation CEO

By Hawa Dolley

 Merck Foundation’s CEO, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, has encouraged people to pay closer attention to their personal wellbeing and use every day experiences as opportunities for continuous learning.

Dr. Kelej said observation can help individuals better understand their habits, routines and responses to different lifestyle choices.

She noted that people should pay attention to factors such as sleep, exercise, nutrition and stress, while making responsible decisions about their wellbeing and seeking professional medical guidance when necessary.

Beyond health, Dr. Kelej said observation can also contribute to creativity and innovation by helping people identify problems and opportunities that others may overlook.

She explained that many new ideas begin when someone notices that something can be done differently or recognizes an unmet need.

The Merck Foundation CEO further emphasized that learning should not end with formal education, saying people can continue developing their knowledge and wisdom through experience, reflection and paying attention to the world around them.

Dr. Kelej is expected to further examine the connection between observation, experience, wisdom and crystallized intelligence in a forthcoming article titled “The Observant Mind: How to Extend the Peak of Crystallized Intelligence and Turn Experience Into Wisdom.”