I think that big problems in the world (like chronic homelessness, loneliness, depression, poverty, underrepresentation of groups, risks from A.I., global warming, etc.) are ridiculously complex - way more complex than the narratives about them suggest.
The only approach I know of that I think has a meaningful shot to help solve such huge problems, which you might call “Scientific Entrepreneurship,” combines two methods into one:
(1) Rigorous science to deeply understand the causal struct...
More
problem-solving
On How to Process Your Emotions
We’ve all heard that you should take time to “process your emotions” and not “repress them.” But after a bad event occurs, what exactly does it MEAN to process your emotions? I think that, ideally, it involves a mix of these components:
(1) Noticing: paying close attention to your negative thoughts instead of pushing them away or trying to ignore the bad feelings. What are the EXACT words running through your mind? How does it feel right now to be you? What do your body and mind feel li...
More
Seek the Root: how to handle requests more effectively
Written: November 28, 2020 | Released: September 3, 2021
When we're given a request, there is generally a deeper intention underneath it. If we get curious for a moment and think/inquire about why the request is being made, we can often provide more value.
Example 1: Relationship
Romantic partner: I'd prefer it if you respond to my text messages faster.
Normal answer: sure, I'll try to do that from now on.
Seeking the root: sure, I'll try to do that from no...
More
Thinking Through Harmful Situations
Possible solutions to a harmful situation you are in can usually be categorized into just four types. You can: Exit, Alter, React, or Reframe.
To elaborate, if a situation is causing you harm, you can:
(1) EXIT the situation so that it can’t harm you anymore.
For instance, if you’re in a burning building, you can try to leave the building.
(2) ALTER the nature or characteristics of the situation so that it harms you less, while still remaining in the situation, and otherwise behavi...
More