Numbers

What gives numbers their particular flavor is that they are so easily comparable. They open a clear potential for maximization and for advancement that easily sparks the spirit of achievement and competitiveness in those so inclined. A thirst for increase.

Their simplicity makes them useful and widely-applicable. When we are able to describe the world around us via quantities, we can grow a sense of reliability, of repeatability, that can clarify our mental models, and allow us energy we can devote to other pursuits.

A common pitfall is adopting the belief that the world is completely quantifiable. Or rather, that our understanding, our numerical descriptions of the world are complete, or even sufficient to navigate our life. Such a belief can see a person, intentionally or not, discard the parts of the world that do not fit their models. The fluffy ruffles, the unknown tinges, the occasional glitches, or even entire swathes of our perception, like our own inner workings and psyche, are at times crumpled up and moved aside to the bucket of "I don't know/I don't care", impoverishing our experience just as much.