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Pass the Global Pacifier (we’re all teething!).


China sneezed, and an unprepared world got a Depression. It’s odd that our two definitions of bad times, economically and emotionally, use the same word. Of course, given the fact that the world is having to decide between the health of the economy versus public health, maybe it’s not so odd. In either case, choice is tough, especially when so much is on the line. That’s where wisdom comes into play.

Wisdom is often about understanding the collateral benefits and costs that aren’t obvious to most people. Long ago, one of the role models of simplicity, Henry David Thoreau suggested, “The cost of something is measured by how much life you have to give for it.”

It’s a question we all have to ask for ourselves.

I’ve turned down two pretty amazing career opportunities in the past three years based upon the recognition that the upside financially and ego-wise of taking those positions wasn’t worth the downside of workaholism and stress that would likely come from those jobs. It wasn’t always easy, but in the long run, I deeply appreciate that my life is so much simpler today. Maybe the world needs a global simplifier, not a pacifier.

What decisions do you need to make in the next couple of months? How could you be wiser to the less obvious collateral costs and benefits of these decisions? As you merge back on the fast-paced highway after what may have felt like meandering on a country road, let’s make sure it’s not as anxiety-producing as this funny video from the movie Clueless.

P.S.: Free Happy Hour Show with Chip and David: Unlocking Wisdom with Paul Hynek

happy hour with chip and david

Join co-hosts Chip Conley and David Stewart, as they unlock wisdom with special guest Paul Hynek. Paul is a dynamic guy, great conversationalist, and deeply connected to a radical longevity movement. During our Happy Hour Paul will share with us how he has reversed his age by about three years through life extension experiments, what it was like growing up the son of Mr. UFO – Dr. Allan Hynek, how he can learn a new language within 6-8 weeks, and his take on creating a meaningful life. Expect a colorful evening of cutting-edge discussions from a highly entertaining guest. Tune in this Thursday, May 21 at 5:00pm PST / 8:00pm EST. Tickets are limited, reserve your free spot today…

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