The older we get, the harder it becomes to celebrate birthdays. When we were kids, we definitely didn’t have this problem. But for some reason, as we become middle-aged, we gradually start losing interest in our own birthdays. Even those round numbers can become a drag. I wonder why this happens to so many of us?
Read MoreThinking about existential risks is the extreme version of negative visualization
Today I listened to the latest episode (#208) of the Making Sense Podcast, where Sam Harris speaks with Oxford University philosopher Toby Ord about existential risks and preserving the long term future of humanity. All I can say is: phew, that episode was a tough two hour exercise in negative visualization. But a useful one, which I will recommend to anyone.
Read MoreThoughts of gratitude on Midsummer’s Eve
I’m celebrating Midsummer once again in Hanko, on the southernmost tip of Finland, at Villa Maija. As Midsummer’s Eve is approaching its end, I thought it would be appropriate to express some thoughts of gratitude.
Read MoreNegative visualization as a way of experiencing gratitude
I find negative visualization a powerful tool for experiencing gratitude even in situations where it otherwise might be difficult. Such as when you’re in the middle of a global Coronavirus pandemic and each time you switch on the news it’s mostly “bad”.
Read More