The 'perfects' that define relationships

Modern life gives us endless ways to connect with others, so why is it that so many of us struggle to build loving and supportive relationships?

This week, I’m joined once again by Mo Gawdat for the second part of our inspiring two-part conversation. Mo is the former Chief Business Officer of Google [X], the author of multiple bestselling books and a world leading expert in technology and AI.

In last week’s episode, we explored Mo’s remarkable insights into happiness, grief and the nature of life and death. In this second part, our conversation shifts towards love — what it really is, why it’s so challenging for many of us and how greater self-awareness can transform the way we relate to others.

Mo believes love itself is simple, but that relationships are complex. He shares his reflections on breakups, long-term commitment, emotional patterns and why so many of us misunderstand what we truly need. We also explore the fascinating psychology behind modern dating, the unhelpful design of many dating apps and the maths that quietly shapes our search for a partner.

During this incredible episode, we discuss:

• Why Mo believes love is simple, but relationships are difficult - and the common mistakes we make in both. 
• The emotional patterns, habits and conditioning that shape how we show up in love.
• Why modern dating has become so challenging, and how commercial dating apps can make things worse.
• The maths behind dating and why our expectations, checklists and biases make it harder to find a partner.
• Why many relationship problems stem from misunderstandings, unmet needs and unexamined emotional triggers.
• How increasing self-awareness can transform the way we love, relate and resolve conflict.

A significant part of our conversation focuses on Emma, the AI companion Mo has built to help people understand themselves better, navigate conflict with more compassion and approach dating and relationships with greater emotional clarity. You may feel sceptical about this, but Mo explains how Emma is designed not to replace human relationships, but to support them: improving communication, breaking unhelpful patterns and encouraging deeper connection.

As always, Mo brings a depth of understanding to a topic that we can all struggle with at various times during our lives. What he does so brilliantly in this episode is remind us that at the heart of any meaningful relationship lies self-understanding, compassion and honesty. When we become more aware of our old patterns, needs and blind spots, we give ourselves a chance to love - and be loved - in a way that helps us find the connection we truly need - and desire.

I hope you enjoy listening.

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Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/598

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