Intelligence Squared
Author of Four Thousand Weeks Oliver Burkeman on How To Live Well (Part One)
May 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Oliver Burkeman, a celebrated author and journalist known for his work on productivity and time management, shares transformative insights on living well. He challenges the relentless pursuit of productivity and encourages listeners to embrace their limitations. Burkeman explores the struggle of modern life against societal pressures, advocating for a focus on what truly matters. He also uses the metaphors of kayaking versus sailing super yachts to illustrate the unpredictable nature of life, urging a shift toward acceptance and fulfillment.
39:27
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Quick takeaways
- Oliver Burkeman emphasizes embracing life's limitations, suggesting that liberation comes from prioritizing what truly matters instead of chasing unattainable productivity.
- Berkman highlights the gap between understanding one's values and consistently acting on them, advocating for intentional living to find fulfillment in daily experiences.
Deep dives
Embracing Our Limitations
Oliver Berkman emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing the limitations of life rather than attempting to achieve impossible efficiency. He discusses how modern life often leads people to chase an elusive feeling of control and mastery, leaving them feeling perpetually behind. By acknowledging that certain expectations are simply unattainable, individuals can shift their focus from trying to do everything to prioritizing what truly matters. This mindset fosters liberation, as one can accept their finite time and intuitively choose what deserves their attention.
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