Why Chasing 'Special' Keeps You Stuck: Insights from 'Alive and Free'
There’s nothing you can do to make yourself more special than you are now. And that’s a good thing — because it means you can rejoice about who you are
Ever feel like you're constantly chasing the idea of being 'special'? Bob Gardner dives into this very trap in the 'Alive and Free' podcast episode, 'On Being Special'. He argues that our relentless pursuit of specialness, whether through learning new skills or ditching bad habits, often leaves us more miserable. Why? Because we’re never satisfied. Bob uses addiction as a prime example, explaining that freeing yourself from addiction won’t instantly make you happier.
Instead, your brain finds other ways to criticize you. In this episode, Bob unpacks why you’re already special just as you are. He suggests that ignoring the pursuit of wealth, happiness, and fulfillment can actually attract these things to you. Bob also touches on how Big Pharma might be creating more “diseases” than actually exist, leading us into a trap where we feel the need to defend our diagnoses.
What makes this episode stand out is its raw and engaging approach. Bob’s insights are both thought-provoking and inspiring, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique selves rather than imitate others. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the cycle of self-improvement and still feel unsatisfied, this episode offers a refreshing perspective. It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from the mental chains of trying to be 'special' and start celebrating who they are right now.