Mickey Hart, the legendary drummer for the Grateful Dead and coiner of the term YOLO, is joined by author Pete Davis, who champions the power of commitment in a world of endless options. They delve into why embracing long-term commitments leads to deeper fulfillment, contrasting it with the anxiety of constantly keeping options open. Hart shares personal anecdotes on the joy of dedication while Davis argues that true happiness comes from meaningful choices, challenging the spontaneous YOLO mindset. Together, they illuminate how commitment can enrich our lives.
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YOLO Ranch
Mickey Hart coined "YOLO" when buying his ranch.
He wanted a private space for his music and to avoid fans.
insights INSIGHT
Misunderstood YOLO
YOLO is often used to justify impulsive actions.
It encourages prioritizing spontaneity over consequences.
insights INSIGHT
Infinite Browsing
Pete Davis's generation values fleeting experiences over long-term commitments.
He believes this "infinite browsing" mentality is detrimental.
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In 'Stumbling on Happiness,' Daniel Gilbert delves into the human capacity to imagine the future and why we are often poor at predicting what will make us happy. Gilbert argues that our imagination is flawed in several ways: it adds or removes details, extrapolates from the present, and fails to account for the psychological immune system that helps us cope with undesired outcomes. The book uses scientific research from psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and behavioral economics to explain why we consistently misjudge our future satisfaction and how this affects our decisions. Gilbert also suggests that understanding these biases can help us make better choices and gain more control over our pursuit of happiness.
The paradox of choice
Why More Is Less
Barry Schwartz
In 'The Paradox of Choice,' Barry Schwartz argues that the abundance of choices in modern Western society, while seemingly beneficial, can actually be detrimental to our psychological and emotional well-being. He explains how the explosion in choices, from mundane decisions like buying jeans to profound challenges like balancing career and family, has paradoxically become a problem rather than a solution. Schwartz synthesizes current research in social sciences to make the counterintuitive case that eliminating choices can reduce stress, anxiety, and busyness. He offers practical steps to limit choices, focus on important ones, and derive greater satisfaction from decision-making. The book also introduces the concepts of 'maximizers' and 'satisficers,' highlighting the differences in their decision-making processes and outcomes.
Dedicated, The Case for Commitment in an Age of Infinite Browsing
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Pete Davis
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".