We have engineered discomfort out of our lives
We’ve engineered discomfort out of our lives faster than we’ve adapted to living without it. As a result, we’re in a comfort crisis.
Just think about how we condition kids from an early age in ways that set them up for trouble, making them sit still at desks for hours, limiting physical activity, and shielding them from too much stress. Don’t get me wrong, the modern world is great, but with all its conveniences comes significant responsibility.
Food is more abundant than ever. Decades ago, obesity wasn’t the issue it is today because people weren’t surrounded by ultra-processed, hyper palatable, calorie-dense foods in endless supplies. Now we have to be intentional about how we eat and exercise. Work has also changed. Many of us don’t even have to move to earn a living. It’s possible to go through an entire day without exerting any real physical effort.
And when was the last time most people actually felt fear. Real fear, when they were in genuine physical danger. If you never face true threats, your mind starts manufacturing fears out of nothing. If you’ve ever taken a solo hike, you’ve probably experienced this firsthand. Suddenly, every stick breaking, leaf crunching, and gust of wind commands your attention. That’s just a glimpse of what we’ve engineered out of everyday life.
