
How to Be Happy and the Science of Cognitive Time Travel
Plain English with Derek Thompson
Escape the Illusion of Time
Life exists only in the present moment; the past is gone and the future is yet to come, making them mere illusions that can trap one in fantasy. Philosophical traditions including Stoicism, Buddhism, and existentialism teach the importance of avoiding these 'unreal corridors of time.' The prevailing advice to 'be here now' serves as a reminder to focus on the present and appreciate the current moment. However, the phrase can seem overly simplistic, as the act of being present is a conscious choice that transcends mere existence, demanding deeper engagement beyond superficial interpretation.
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