Alain de Botton (School of Life founder; author) has written 15 books about the philosophy of living – such as The Art of Travel; Status Anxiety; Art as Therapy; and The Course of Love – but he has recently turned his focus to mental health and how philosophy can be used as a therapeutic aid. Alain argues that a mental breakdown can provide the opening a despairing soul seeks. Indeed, anxiety so often is its own fix.

We sat down in WeAre8’s London office for this two-way conversation about the philosophical wisdoms we personally use to have a life of meaning in the face of despair. We also talk about the writing process (and why it’s a salve), the healing effects of figs and dark chocolate, how to love, plus a super fresh take on “adult boredom” (embrace your impatience, get to the point!).

SHOW NOTES

Get hold of The Therapeutic Journey here and the School of Life range of books here
First, We Make the Beast Beautiful is available in more than a dozen languages here
I also mention my Wild chat with AC Grayling on how to have a philosophy of your own
And my conversation with Pico Iyer as well as the episode with David Whyte
We recorded the episode at WeAre8 HQ in London – big thanks to the team for being such wonderful hosts!

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Alesha Dixon