Americans are spending more time alone than we have in a long, long time. That wouldn't be such a big deal if we weren't also reporting feelings of increased anxiety and unhappiness. This is why journalist Derek Thompson, in his recent cover story for The Atlantic, titled "The Anti-Social Century" (link below), writes, “Self-imposed solitude might just be the most important social fact of the 21st century in America." Today, Brad and Clay talk to Derek about how we got here, the consequences it's having on our society and culture, and why we might need to think about taking "social fitness" as seriously as we take physical fitness. We discuss the difference between loneliness (which isn't such a bad thing) and aloneness (which is), the role that technology and dopamine plays in all of this, how to think about the purpose of solitude in your life, and how we can improve America's social fitness, individually and collectively. Plus: Derek is one of the most prolific people we know and we spend some time at the end breaking down the habits, routines, and philosophies that help him get it all done.

"The Anti-Social Century" by Derek Thompson (The Atlantic)

https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/02/american-loneliness-personality-politics/681091/

Join The Growth Equation Academy today. 40% off for a limited time!

https://the-growtheq-academy.mn.co/

If you are enjoying FAREWELL, do us a huge favor: text your favorite episode to three people so they can enjoy it, too. Thanks!

Got a question, feedback, or ideas for the show? Email clay.growtheq@gmail.com or leave a voicemail at (646) 893-9503

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

129: How to Create a Personal Knowledge Management System, with Bonni Stachowiak

Coaching for Leaders

Managing RSS Feed Subscriptions and Tools for Reading

The AI-powered Podcast Player