Worklife with Adam Grant

How free solo climber Alex Honnold faces fear

Sep 20, 2022

Renowned free solo climber Alex Honnold, famous for his groundbreaking ascent of El Capitan without ropes, shares insights on managing fear and motivation. He discusses the psychology of climbing, highlighting how he uses self-talk and visualization to conquer challenges. Honnold reflects on his intrinsic drive and the balance of risk and reward, revealing how facing fear can lead to personal growth. He also humorously explores his everyday decision-making using an alter ego, showcasing the connection between adventure and aligning life choices with values.

43:04

Creator website

Episode guests

Alex Honnold

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

What Is Your Greatest Fear?

01:38

Detecting a Threat in a Life and Death Situation

00:51

Intro

2min

The Psychology of Free Solo Climbing

15min

Harnessing the Power of Self-Talk in Climbing

2min

Conquering Fear in Free Solo Climbing

7min

Exploring Values: Benevolence vs. Universalism in Adventure and Altruism

2min

Climbing Beyond Fear

15min

Navigating Life's Choices: Finding Direction Beyond the Map

2min

In 2017, Alex Honnold did what even the world’s best rock climbers thought was impossible. He climbed to the top of El Capitan– a granite rock mountain more than 3,000 feet high– without a rope, harness, or net. His audacious feat was the subject of the Oscar-winning documentary “Free Solo,” and it left Adam with some burning questions about what we can learn from his unique approach to managing fear. Alex opens up about how he regulates his emotions when he’s hanging on by just a few fingers, what still scares him, and how he stays motivated to pursue ambitious goals. For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/RWAG2

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