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Published Apr 17, 2019

Jason Silva: Break the Cycle of Fear and Doubt with Lewis Howes

Jason Silva and Lewis Howes delve into the interplay of chaos and order in creativity, explore mindfulness as a remedy for anxiety, and investigate existential questions, while encouraging listeners to embrace fear for personal growth.
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  • Meaning of Life

    reflects on the pursuit of happiness and the meaning of life, emphasizing that financial success alone does not bring fulfillment. He notes that even in societies with high life satisfaction, like Scandinavian countries, deeper existential questions persist 1. and Jason discuss how the quest for meaning often resurfaces, especially when basic needs are met.

    The big questions from the college dorms when you were stoned, like, come back, what's the meaning of life? Why are we here? What do we do in the face of death?

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    Jason believes that these questions continue to drive his work and personal exploration 2.

       

    Approaching Mortality

    Acknowledging mortality, argues, can profoundly impact how we live. He references Ernest Becker's book, The Denial of Death, to illustrate the tension between our symbolic inner life and our finite physical existence 3. and Jason discuss how this awareness can either paralyze us with fear or motivate us to live more fully.

    If you remind people of their mortality, even subliminally, they will be much more hostile towards other groups and people who are different than them.

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    They also explore how different cultures, like Bhutan, embrace mortality to enhance their present-moment awareness and happiness 4.

       

    Human Connection

    Human connection and empathy are central to 's philosophy. He shares how moments of radical empathy can dissolve self-doubt and self-obsession 5. and Jason discuss the South African concept of Ubuntu, which emphasizes interconnectedness and collective well-being.

    I find that moments of, like, radical and sudden empathy or radical and sudden compassion immediately dissipate all those gnawing thoughts of self doubt and self loathing and self pity and just desire.

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    Jason believes that creating art and engaging in communal experiences can uplift the human spirit and foster a sense of belonging.

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