Mo Gawdat: Finding Light in the Dark Through a Happiness Algorithm
To summarize it, I think this is too complex for a podcast, but to summarize the whole concept of how we live and die, life is not the opposite of death. Life, you know you and your spirit, animals, and you know the union of you, the divine, and all of that is all across the world.
Imagine achieving immense success yet feeling a void that success alone can't fill. This is the story of Mo Gawdat, a tech entrepreneur and former chief business officer at Google X, who joins Helen Russell on 'How to be Sad'. Mo's journey to understanding happiness took an unexpected turn when he faced the tragic loss of his son, Ali, in 2014.
Instead of succumbing to despair, Mo sought solace by refining his happiness equation, a formula he developed to navigate life's toughest moments. In this episode, Mo opens up about how his algorithm for happiness became a lifeline during his darkest days. He shares profound insights into differentiating between sadness and unhappiness, emphasizing that experiencing pain is an inevitable part of life.
Mo and Helen discuss the role of fear and loneliness, and how these emotions can actually serve as catalysts for growth. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as they explore what other cultures can teach us about dealing with sadness. Mo also sheds light on the complex relationship between technology and our emotional well-being, offering a fresh perspective on how to balance our digital lives with our mental health.
One of the most touching aspects of this episode is Mo's belief in the power of unconditional love. He explains how love can transcend any barrier, connecting us deeply with others. Helen's emotional response during their chat adds a layer of authenticity and rawness that makes this episode particularly moving. If you're curious about how to turn sorrow into strength or looking for ways to better understand your own emotions, this conversation is a must-listen.
It's a heartfelt discussion that reminds us all that life, with its ups and downs, is a game we must learn to play.