Episode 6: Is it the Best of Times or the Worst of Times

In this episode I talk about the moment that we are in and how at times it feels like we are living in a time of wonder and unlimited possibility, and at other times, it feels like things have never been harder.

I describe in what ways we are living in the best of times:

            -all of the world’s knowledge is at our fingertips

            -we have the ability to connect with anyone, anywhere, anytime

            -unprecedented access to food

            -high level of rights for individuals

            -most of us live in relative comfort

            -unprecedented level of medical knowledge

            -low level of physical exertion for most work and travel

            -more diverse work opportunities and settings (e.g. Remote work)

            -never need to suffer through boredom

I also describe in what ways we are living in the worst of times:

            -social isolation and lack of rich in-person communities

            -high levels of depression

            -high levels of obesity and chronic disease

            -political division and polarization

            -lack of trust in institutions and individuals

-dissatisfaction with opportunities (feeling of the loss of the American Dream)

            -toxic social media

What can we do?

-seek and develop connection and community in the real/nonvirtual world     

-turn off devices whenever possible

-seek physical exertion and discomfort within reason and safely

-embrace what is great about our modern world while trying to minimize the shadow side