Published Oct 14, 2024

Ari Wallach: Create Your Ideal Future Using Science-Based Protocols

Ari Wallach and Andrew Huberman delve into the transformative power of long-term thinking, discussing how our present actions shape our purpose and legacy, and the profound influence of embracing mortality on future planning and societal narratives.
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Episode Highlights

  • Mortality Impact

    Ari Wallach discusses the profound impact of confronting mortality on our life choices and long-term planning. He shares a personal experience with a death doula and a death meditation, which helped him confront his own mortality and find a sense of freedom from societal burdens 1. Andrew Huberman reflects on how the awareness of mortality can create a sense of urgency in life, as exemplified by Steve Jobs, who lived with a clear understanding of his finite time 2. Wallach argues that acknowledging our mortality is crucial for thinking about the future and acting in ways that benefit future generations 3.

    When you've come close to seeing what that looks and feels like, you all of a sudden become free from the burdens that society places on you.

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    This awareness can lead to a more meaningful and purpose-driven life.

       

    Future Self

    Connecting with one's future self is a powerful tool for making better decisions today. Ari Wallach describes using aged photos to visualize his future self, which helps him make healthier choices and plan for retirement 4. Andrew Huberman and Wallach discuss research showing that visualizing an older version of oneself can increase empathy and drive better decision-making 5. Wallach also highlights the practice of writing letters to one's future self, which encourages individuals to think deeply about their future goals and aspirations 6.

    The most important way to take care of future self is flossing.

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    These practices foster a sense of responsibility and connection to one's future, promoting long-term thinking.

       

    Societal Views

    Society's perception of death significantly influences our approach to the future. Ari Wallach notes that dystopian narratives dominate popular culture, shaping a negative outlook on the future 7. He introduces the concept of "Protopia," a vision of a better tomorrow that, while not perfect, represents progress and improvement over the present 7. Andrew Huberman and Wallach discuss the importance of shifting from a mindset of self-sacrifice to one of building a better future through positive actions and narratives 8.

    If we start backdropping our future visions in worlds that are better than they are today, I would argue that will be the stories that start acting as a kedge to help pull us through this narrow moment of flux and chaos.

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    This shift in perspective can inspire hope and motivate actions that contribute to a more harmonious future.

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