In this episode, Alex delves into the profound themes presented in Mark Manson's book, exploring the uncomfortable truth of life: the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of our significance. He emphasises the importance of hope as a driving force against hopelessness, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Alex discusses the emotional roots of self-control, highlighting the interplay between our thinking and feeling brains. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Hopelessness is identified as a root cause of depression and anxiety, stemming from the feeling of being out of control in one's life. It is essential to recognize that while pain is inevitable, suffering is a choice.

• Hope is fundamental to our psychology, providing a sense of purpose and the belief that we can achieve something great. It is crucial to have something to look forward to and to feel a sense of control over our destiny.

• Self-control is primarily an emotional issue rather than a logical one. The feeling brain often drives our decisions, and aligning it with the thinking brain is key to achieving better self-control and overcoming feelings of hopelessness.

• True freedom comes from self-limitation, which involves making conscious choices about what to give up in life. The most meaningful freedom arises from the commitments we choose to sacrifice for our goals.

• Achieving harmony between the thinking brain and the feeling brain is essential for personal growth. When both are aligned with the same values, individuals can navigate life's challenges more effectively and reduce suffering.

BEST MOMENTS

"One day, you and everyone you love will die. And beyond a small group of people for an extremely brief period of time, little of what you say or do will ever matter."

"Hope is what makes us happy. It's what makes us progress forward."

"Pain is inevitable, but suffering is always a choice."

"The only true form of freedom is through self-limitation."

"Your life is not hopeless. Your life is not meaningless unless you subscribe to a belief that pain is inevitable." 

ABOUT THE HOST
Alex is a prize-winning chartered accountant with experience in financial markets from trading finance, capital hedging, structural foreign exchange, and interest rates to operational risk from the world’s top financial and advisory institutions including Deloitte, RBS, and JPMorgan Chase
Alex has been involved in property development programmes across different types since 2008, building and managing a portfolio that includes standard buy-to-lets, student accommodation and other houses in multiple occupancy (HMOs).
He specialises in raising finance, providing potential investors, investors, and joint venture partners with ad hoc (to their specific requirements), hands-free and hassle-free property investments solutions as well as coaching and mentoring
Alex aspires to share business and financial knowledge with upcoming entrepreneurs and experienced business minds to learn and master the concepts and mindsets required to succeed, stand-out, have the edge and make a difference.
Alex is also a keen traveller, cyclist, and photographer.

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