Exploring the concept of subtraction in design and life, the chapter follows Ryan's journey in creating a unique balance bike without pedals, illustrating the value of removing elements to improve functionality. It discusses the challenge people face in recognizing the significance of subtraction, despite its logical benefits, and how this bias towards adding affects various aspects of life. Highlighting the issue of overscheduled kids due to helicopter parenting, the chapter emphasizes the importance of removing activities rather than adding more to prevent stress and anxiety.
We often think adding more things to our lives will make us happier - more trips, more activities, more possessions. Sadly our minds find it hard to comprehend that having less and doing less is usually a better option.
Dr Laurie Santos teams up with economist Tim Harford (host of Cautionary Tales) to examine why we find subtraction so very hard, and share tips for finding happiness by cutting down on our commitments.
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