Pete fears that our keep your options open mentality isn't just limiting the number of long haul heroes in ways that will make society less happy. It's also negatively affecting our individual happiness as well. There's lots of evidence that not committing ultimately poses a huge opportunity cost for your happiness.
YOLO seems like the perfect rock 'n' roll philosophy. You only live once... so do whatever seems right in the moment. Be spontaneous. Quit your job; find a new person to date; and always, always keep your options open.
We all fear getting stuck in the wrong occupation, relationship or home - so shun fully committing to anything. But we're misguided. The man who coined the term YOLO - the Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart - tells Dr Laurie Santos that throwing yourself fully into a life choice is the best way to live our precious life.
Further reading:
Pete Davis - Dedicated: The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing.
Dan Gilbert - Stumbling on Happiness.
Barry Schwartz - The Paradox of Choice.
Further Listening:
Try Mickey Hart's new album with Planet Drum “In the Groove".
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