1 00:00:00,820 --> 00:00:08,050 Arthur Schopenhauer says “Life swings like a pendulum backward and forward between pain 2 00:00:08,050 --> 00:00:09,780 and boredom.” 3 00:00:09,780 --> 00:00:15,250 Arthur Schopenhauer was a renowned German philosopher known for his unconventional views 4 00:00:15,250 --> 00:00:20,619 on reality, the human condition, and the role of suffering in life. 5 00:00:20,619 --> 00:00:26,390 Despite being labeled as a "Sad Prince of Pessimism" or "Messenger of Misery," his works 6 00:00:26,390 --> 00:00:31,349 like "The World as Will and Representation," "The Two Fundamental Problems of Ethics," 7 00:00:31,349 --> 00:00:38,410 and "On the Basis of Morality" offer unique insights into how we can live a more fulfilling 8 00:00:38,410 --> 00:00:39,410 life. 9 00:00:39,410 --> 00:00:44,590 At the core of his philosophy is the concept of the "will," which he saw as the primary 10 00:00:44,590 --> 00:00:47,860 force behind all human behavior. 11 00:00:47,860 --> 00:00:53,000 Schopenhauer believed that the will drives our desires and needs, motivating us to act 12 00:00:53,000 --> 00:00:54,210 in the world. 13 00:00:54,210 --> 00:00:59,500 However, the will is also responsible for much of the suffering and dissatisfaction 14 00:00:59,500 --> 00:01:06,689 in life since our desires are frequently frustrated, and our goals remain unfulfilled. 15 00:01:06,689 --> 00:01:13,400 Alongside the concept of will, Schopenhauer also extensively explored the concept of boredom. 16 00:01:13,400 --> 00:01:18,620 He saw boredom as a natural consequence of the human condition resulting from the constant 17 00:01:18,620 --> 00:01:22,950 repetition of desires and the resulting dissatisfaction. 18 00:01:22,950 --> 00:01:28,830 If left unchecked, boredom can lead to despair and a sense of meaninglessness. 19 00:01:28,830 --> 00:01:34,360 Which is why in this video, we discuss six ways to avoid boredom from Schopenhauer's 20 00:01:34,360 --> 00:01:35,730 philosophy. 21 00:01:35,730 --> 00:01:41,500 By following these tips, we can cultivate a sense of purpose and engagement in our lives, 22 00:01:41,500 --> 00:01:47,130 preventing boredom from leading to a cycle of dissatisfaction and despair. 23 00:01:47,130 --> 00:01:48,759 1. 24 00:01:48,759 --> 00:01:52,399 Appreciate the beauty of everyday life 25 00:01:52,399 --> 00:02:00,070 Schopenhauer says "Every satisfaction he attains lays the seeds of some new desire, so that 26 00:02:00,070 --> 00:02:06,130 there is no end to the wishes of each individual will.” 27 00:02:06,130 --> 00:02:11,560 Schopenhauer suggests that boredom is an unavoidable aspect of the human experience, stemming from 28 00:02:11,560 --> 00:02:15,270 our unfulfilled desires and expectations. 29 00:02:15,270 --> 00:02:21,050 He believed that we humans are always in search of new experiences and stimulation to occupy 30 00:02:21,050 --> 00:02:27,069 our minds, but once these are obtained, the novelty quickly wears off, leaving us feeling 31 00:02:27,069 --> 00:02:30,209 bored and unfulfilled once again. 32 00:02:30,209 --> 00:02:35,940 This constant search for novelty and excitement can become a never-ending cycle that is both 33 00:02:35,940 --> 00:02:38,160 tiring and unfulfilling. 34 00:02:38,160 --> 00:02:43,970 For instance, suppose you have been eagerly anticipating a vacation for months, planning 35 00:02:43,970 --> 00:02:49,210 every detail of your trip, from flights to activities to do when you arrive. 36 00:02:49,210 --> 00:02:54,190 You finally reach your destination, have a great time exploring new places and trying 37 00:02:54,190 --> 00:03:00,060 new things, but after a few days, you start to feel bored and restless. 38 00:03:00,060 --> 00:03:05,750 According to Schopenhauer, this boredom and restlessness stem from our constant desire 39 00:03:05,750 --> 00:03:10,530 for new experiences and external sources of pleasure. 40 00:03:10,530 --> 00:03:17,150 To overcome the feeling of boredom, Schopenhauer advocated minimizing our desires and expectations 41 00:03:17,150 --> 00:03:20,760 and instead finding contentment in simple pleasures. 42 00:03:20,760 --> 00:03:26,750 Rather than constantly searching for new experiences and material possessions, we can discover 43 00:03:26,750 --> 00:03:32,569 joy by experiencing and appreciating the beauty of everyday life. 44 00:03:32,569 --> 00:03:37,670 Schopenhauer believed that experiencing beauty has a transformative effect on our psyche. 45 00:03:37,670 --> 00:03:44,590 It allows us to momentarily forget our individual desires and concerns, and instead become absorbed 46 00:03:44,590 --> 00:03:46,480 in the present moment. 47 00:03:46,480 --> 00:03:53,069 One way to apply this philosophy to our daily lives is by spending time in nature. 48 00:03:53,069 --> 00:03:58,170 Schopenhauer believed that nature is a source of great beauty, and by immersing ourselves 49 00:03:58,170 --> 00:04:03,671 in natural environments, we can connect with something larger than ourselves and experience 50 00:04:03,671 --> 00:04:06,400 wonder and awe. 51 00:04:06,400 --> 00:04:11,700 By cultivating mindfulness and presence in this way, we can develop a more reflective 52 00:04:11,700 --> 00:04:17,709 and contemplative attitude towards life, gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and the 53 00:04:17,709 --> 00:04:18,859 world around us. 54 00:04:18,859 --> 00:04:24,720 For example, when we take a moment to appreciate a beautiful sunset, we might feel a strong 55 00:04:24,720 --> 00:04:27,940 sense of amazement and admiration. 56 00:04:27,940 --> 00:04:33,479 This feeling of awe can encourage us to contemplate the beauty of the natural world, our place 57 00:04:33,479 --> 00:04:37,449 in it, and the purpose of our existence. 58 00:04:37,449 --> 00:04:41,820 Through reflection on these deeper questions, we can gain insights into our own personal 59 00:04:41,820 --> 00:04:47,419 struggles and challenges, and find new ways of approaching and addressing them. 60 00:04:47,419 --> 00:04:52,400 In a world where many of us spend a lot of time indoors and in front of screens, making 61 00:04:52,400 --> 00:04:57,990 an effort to spend time in nature can be a way to appreciate its beauty and find relief 62 00:04:57,990 --> 00:04:59,960 from boredom. 63 00:04:59,960 --> 00:05:04,900 Schopenhauer also believed that creation and appreciation of works of art, such as music, 64 00:05:04,900 --> 00:05:09,990 literature, and painting, help us transcend the mundane and connect with something greater 65 00:05:09,990 --> 00:05:11,750 than ourselves. 66 00:05:11,750 --> 00:05:17,300 He believed that works of art have the ability to communicate universal truths and emotions 67 00:05:17,300 --> 00:05:19,900 that are not easily expressed through language. 68 00:05:19,900 --> 00:05:24,669 For example, a piece of music may convey a sense of longing or joy that is difficult 69 00:05:24,669 --> 00:05:28,870 to put into words, but that resonates deeply with the listener. 70 00:05:28,870 --> 00:05:34,170 By creating or appreciating works of art, we can escape the limitations of our individual 71 00:05:34,170 --> 00:05:39,710 experience and connect with a larger, more profound sense of reality. 72 00:05:39,710 --> 00:05:45,020 In our modern-day world, we have countless opportunities to engage with art and culture, 73 00:05:45,020 --> 00:05:51,120 from visiting museums and galleries to attending concerts and theatrical performances. 74 00:05:51,120 --> 00:05:56,740 By making an effort to seek out these experiences and engage with them fully, we can appreciate 75 00:05:56,740 --> 00:06:01,300 the beauty of the arts and find relief from boredom. 76 00:06:01,300 --> 00:06:07,270 Overall, Schopenhauer recognized that suffering and boredom are inevitable parts of life, 77 00:06:07,270 --> 00:06:11,919 but through an appreciation of beauty, we can reduce our reliance on external sources 78 00:06:11,919 --> 00:06:17,150 of satisfaction and cultivate a more tranquil and fulfilled way of living. 79 00:06:17,150 --> 00:06:23,099 In today's world, where we're constantly bombarded with distractions and seeking stimulation, 80 00:06:23,099 --> 00:06:29,410 Schopenhauer's philosophy of appreciating beauty can help combat that feeling of boredom. 81 00:06:29,410 --> 00:06:30,800 2. 82 00:06:30,800 --> 00:06:33,569 Focus on the present moment 83 00:06:33,569 --> 00:06:39,830 In the words of Schopenhauer “The past and the future (considered apart from the consequences 84 00:06:39,830 --> 00:06:46,620 of their content) are empty as a dream, and the present is only the indivisible and unenduring 85 00:06:46,620 --> 00:06:49,669 boundary between them.” 86 00:06:49,669 --> 00:06:54,380 Schopenhauer believed that one of the keys to avoiding boredom is to be focused on the 87 00:06:54,380 --> 00:06:55,930 present moment. 88 00:06:55,930 --> 00:07:01,030 He believed that boredom arises when we are not fully present and engaged with our surroundings, 89 00:07:01,030 --> 00:07:05,430 and that we become disconnected from the present moment when we are preoccupied with worries 90 00:07:05,430 --> 00:07:09,550 about the future or regrets about the past. 91 00:07:09,550 --> 00:07:13,889 To illustrate this, let's say that you are at a concert, but you're constantly checking 92 00:07:13,889 --> 00:07:17,190 your phone and thinking about what you're going to do after the show. 93 00:07:17,190 --> 00:07:21,639 As a result, you might feel bored and disconnected from the experience. 94 00:07:21,639 --> 00:07:27,120 However, if you put your phone away and focus on the performance and the atmosphere of the 95 00:07:27,120 --> 00:07:32,180 concert, you might find that you become more engaged and absorbed in the present moment. 96 00:07:32,180 --> 00:07:37,330 By being fully present and mindful of the experience, you might be able to appreciate 97 00:07:37,330 --> 00:07:44,199 the beauty of the music and the moment, which can provide a sense of fulfillment and contentment. 98 00:07:44,199 --> 00:07:49,139 Schopenhauer believed that the present moment is the only reality we have. 99 00:07:49,139 --> 00:07:54,699 The past is already gone and the future is uncertain: we can’t change what has already 100 00:07:54,699 --> 00:07:59,360 happened in the past, and we can’t control what will happen in the future. 101 00:07:59,360 --> 00:08:06,389 Our past experiences and future expectations are mere projections of our mind that distract 102 00:08:06,389 --> 00:08:09,419 us from the reality of the present moment. 103 00:08:09,419 --> 00:08:14,590 The only thing that we can control is our experience in the current instant. 104 00:08:14,590 --> 00:08:19,960 For Schopenhauer, this is where our consciousness is focused and by fully engaging with it, 105 00:08:19,960 --> 00:08:24,389 we can find beauty and meaning even in the most mundane experiences. 106 00:08:24,389 --> 00:08:30,690 If you are walking down the street, for example, and feeling bored, you should try to focus 107 00:08:30,690 --> 00:08:33,279 on the sights and sounds around you. 108 00:08:33,279 --> 00:08:37,741 Instead of letting your mind wander or becoming lost in thoughts of the past or future, try 109 00:08:37,741 --> 00:08:41,180 to pay attention to the details of your surroundings. 110 00:08:41,180 --> 00:08:46,240 Notice the colors and textures of the buildings, listen to the sounds of traffic and people 111 00:08:46,240 --> 00:08:51,279 talking, and feel the sensation of the ground beneath your feet. 112 00:08:51,279 --> 00:08:56,160 Similarly, activities like washing dishes or sweeping the floor can become a meditative 113 00:08:56,160 --> 00:09:00,850 practice if we approach it with a sense of mindfulness and awareness. 114 00:09:00,850 --> 00:09:05,200 When we are completely absorbed in the present moment, and our minds are free from distractions 115 00:09:05,200 --> 00:09:06,370 and worries. 116 00:09:06,370 --> 00:09:11,180 By focusing on the present moment in this way, Schopenhauer believed that we can learn 117 00:09:11,180 --> 00:09:17,230 to appreciate the simple pleasures of life and find joy in even the most ordinary experiences. 118 00:09:17,230 --> 00:09:22,959 He believed that this kind of mindfulness can help us to overcome boredom and find fulfillment 119 00:09:22,959 --> 00:09:25,220 in our daily lives. 120 00:09:25,220 --> 00:09:26,440 3. 121 00:09:26,440 --> 00:09:33,089 Learn something new Schopenhauer tells us that "Every man takes 122 00:09:33,089 --> 00:09:39,180 the limits of his own field of vision for the limits of the world." 123 00:09:39,180 --> 00:09:44,570 According to Schopenhauer when we lack a clear sense of purpose or direction, we can become 124 00:09:44,570 --> 00:09:48,010 bored and disengaged from the world around us. 125 00:09:48,010 --> 00:09:53,430 We lose our sense of connection to the things that we once found meaningful or interesting. 126 00:09:53,430 --> 00:09:58,060 To avoid this, Schopenhauer suggests that we should constantly keep on learning and 127 00:09:58,060 --> 00:09:59,950 expand our knowledge. 128 00:09:59,950 --> 00:10:05,490 He viewed education as a way to enhance personal growth and development believing that learning 129 00:10:05,490 --> 00:10:10,850 was inherently fulfilling and stressed the value of critical thinking and logical reasoning 130 00:10:10,850 --> 00:10:12,720 in gaining knowledge. 131 00:10:12,720 --> 00:10:17,990 In his book "The Art of Being Right," he urged people to question assumptions, challenge 132 00:10:17,990 --> 00:10:23,640 established ideas, and seek evidence to back their beliefs. 133 00:10:23,640 --> 00:10:27,600 Schopenhauer held the conviction that the acquisition of knowledge had the potential 134 00:10:27,600 --> 00:10:34,950 to furnish individuals with a profound comprehension of both the world and themselves. 135 00:10:34,950 --> 00:10:40,860 He maintained that exploring philosophy, literature, and the arts could provide people with insights 136 00:10:40,860 --> 00:10:43,470 into the nature of reality and the human condition. 137 00:10:43,470 --> 00:10:48,670 For Schopenhauer, the pursuit of knowledge and ongoing learning was a vital element of 138 00:10:48,670 --> 00:10:54,410 human existence, that acquiring new knowledge helped people avoid monotony, improve their 139 00:10:54,410 --> 00:10:58,839 abilities, and discover more profound significance in their lives. 140 00:10:58,839 --> 00:11:05,450 In our busy modern world, many people simply do not have the time to engage in the pursuit 141 00:11:05,450 --> 00:11:07,089 of knowledge. 142 00:11:07,089 --> 00:11:12,209 Between work, family, and other obligations, individuals may feel like they do not have 143 00:11:12,209 --> 00:11:14,990 the time to devote to learning new things. 144 00:11:14,990 --> 00:11:21,740 Also, our modern world is full of distractions, such as social media, video games, and streaming 145 00:11:21,740 --> 00:11:22,839 services. 146 00:11:22,839 --> 00:11:27,320 These distractions can make it difficult for individuals to focus on the pursuit of knowledge 147 00:11:27,320 --> 00:11:30,050 and can lead to boredom as a result. 148 00:11:30,050 --> 00:11:35,139 Overall, there are many factors that can contribute to individuals preferring boredom over the 149 00:11:35,139 --> 00:11:36,210 pursuit of knowledge. 150 00:11:36,210 --> 00:11:41,529 However, it is important to recognise the value of the pursuit of knowledge for personal 151 00:11:41,529 --> 00:11:47,540 growth and development, and to make an effort to prioritize learning and education in our 152 00:11:47,540 --> 00:11:48,800 lives. 153 00:11:48,800 --> 00:11:53,920 Learning something new can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, but that needn’t be the 154 00:11:53,920 --> 00:11:54,920 case. 155 00:11:54,920 --> 00:11:58,230 First, you need to identify what you want to learn. 156 00:11:58,230 --> 00:12:03,470 It can be a new skill, a new language, or anything that interests you. 157 00:12:03,470 --> 00:12:06,829 Think about what you are passionate about or something that can benefit you in your 158 00:12:06,829 --> 00:12:08,860 personal or professional life. 159 00:12:08,860 --> 00:12:15,019 Once you have identified what you want to learn, set a specific and achievable goal. 160 00:12:15,019 --> 00:12:20,220 Having a goal will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the learning process. 161 00:12:20,220 --> 00:12:23,470 Then gather your resources. 162 00:12:23,470 --> 00:12:29,100 There are various resources available when learning something new, including online courses, 163 00:12:29,100 --> 00:12:34,640 books, tutors or evening classes, podcasts, and videos. 164 00:12:34,640 --> 00:12:39,670 Research and gather resources that align with your learning style and preferences. 165 00:12:39,670 --> 00:12:43,949 Create a plan or a schedule that fits your lifestyle and learning pace. 166 00:12:43,949 --> 00:12:50,380 Break down your learning into manageable chunks and allocate time to practice and review. 167 00:12:50,380 --> 00:12:53,210 Learning something new requires consistent practice. 168 00:12:53,210 --> 00:12:58,260 So make sure to schedule regular practice sessions and stick to your plan. 169 00:12:58,260 --> 00:13:03,190 Joining a community of learners who share your interests can be beneficial. 170 00:13:03,190 --> 00:13:07,630 You can exchange knowledge, ask for feedback, and get support from others who are on the 171 00:13:07,630 --> 00:13:09,550 same journey as you. 172 00:13:09,550 --> 00:13:16,160 Remember that learning something new is a process, and it requires patience and persistence. 173 00:13:16,160 --> 00:13:21,399 Don't be afraid to make mistakes, ask questions, and experiment with different resources until 174 00:13:21,399 --> 00:13:25,600 you find what works for you. 175 00:13:25,600 --> 00:13:26,600 4. 176 00:13:26,600 --> 00:13:31,320 Cultivate your interests According to Schopenhauer "Music is the highest 177 00:13:31,320 --> 00:13:37,480 art, and it is the most profound of all the arts.” 178 00:13:37,480 --> 00:13:41,089 Schopenhauer was known for his interest in several hobbies and activities throughout 179 00:13:41,089 --> 00:13:42,260 his life. 180 00:13:42,260 --> 00:13:46,820 He was an avid reader and believed that reading was essential for intellectual growth and 181 00:13:46,820 --> 00:13:48,090 development. 182 00:13:48,090 --> 00:13:54,060 He read widely on a variety of subjects, including philosophy, literature, and history. 183 00:13:54,060 --> 00:13:59,529 He also was a prolific writer and produced several books and essays throughout his lifetime. 184 00:13:59,529 --> 00:14:04,300 He saw writing as a way to clarify his own thoughts and ideas, as well as to communicate 185 00:14:04,300 --> 00:14:06,230 with others. 186 00:14:06,230 --> 00:14:10,610 Schopenhauer often played the flute for his own enjoyment and believed that music had 187 00:14:10,610 --> 00:14:13,860 a therapeutic effect on the mind and body. 188 00:14:13,860 --> 00:14:16,930 He enjoyed his long walks through the city and the countryside. 189 00:14:16,930 --> 00:14:22,519 For him walking was a way to clear the mind and to connect with nature. 190 00:14:22,519 --> 00:14:27,759 According to Schopenhauer, engaging in a hobby that you enjoy is one of the best ways to 191 00:14:27,759 --> 00:14:33,079 overcome boredom, helping to keep one’s mind active and engaged by providing a source 192 00:14:33,079 --> 00:14:35,079 of enjoyment. 193 00:14:35,079 --> 00:14:40,079 When a person is engaged in an activity they enjoy, they are fully immersed in the present 194 00:14:40,079 --> 00:14:44,600 moment and don’t entertain any negative thoughts. 195 00:14:44,600 --> 00:14:48,810 Schopenhauer further believed that cultivating your interests and pursuing your passions 196 00:14:48,810 --> 00:14:55,350 can lead to a kind of self-discovery and creative expression that is unique to each individual. 197 00:14:55,350 --> 00:15:01,250 By tapping into this inner wellspring of creativity, you can achieve great things and make a unique 198 00:15:01,250 --> 00:15:03,730 contribution to the world. 199 00:15:03,730 --> 00:15:08,519 Hobbies can vary widely from person to person, but the key is to find something that you 200 00:15:08,519 --> 00:15:13,839 truly enjoy and that provides a sense of purpose or accomplishment. 201 00:15:13,839 --> 00:15:19,899 This could include reading, writing, drawing, painting, playing music, gardening, cooking, 202 00:15:19,899 --> 00:15:22,149 or any number of other activities. 203 00:15:22,149 --> 00:15:27,940 Picking a hobby can be a fun and exciting process, but if you don't know where to start, 204 00:15:27,940 --> 00:15:30,910 it can also be overwhelming. 205 00:15:30,910 --> 00:15:36,019 If this is the case for you, we invite you to consider your interests: Think about what 206 00:15:36,019 --> 00:15:38,390 you enjoy doing in your free time. 207 00:15:38,390 --> 00:15:42,089 Do you like to read, write, draw, or play music? 208 00:15:42,089 --> 00:15:45,850 Are you interested in sports, cooking, or gardening? 209 00:15:45,850 --> 00:15:50,949 Make a list of your interests and use this as a starting point for exploring potential 210 00:15:50,949 --> 00:15:51,980 hobbies. 211 00:15:51,980 --> 00:15:58,709 The important thing is to make time for your hobby or activity on a regular basis. 212 00:15:58,709 --> 00:16:03,509 This can help to create a sense of structure and routine in your life, as well as providing 213 00:16:03,509 --> 00:16:05,470 a source of enjoyment. 214 00:16:05,470 --> 00:16:10,860 By engaging in something that you truly love, you can help to overcome boredom and find 215 00:16:10,860 --> 00:16:13,510 greater meaning in your life. 216 00:16:13,510 --> 00:16:15,199 5. 217 00:16:15,199 --> 00:16:21,160 Focus on your health To quote Schopenhauer, “Health so far outweighs 218 00:16:21,160 --> 00:16:29,290 all external goods that a healthy beggar is truly more fortunate than a king in poor health.” 219 00:16:29,290 --> 00:16:34,480 Schopenhauer suggests that health is so valuable that even a beggar who is healthy is more 220 00:16:34,480 --> 00:16:37,460 fortunate than an unwell king. 221 00:16:37,460 --> 00:16:42,620 This statement underscores the idea that health is more important than external factors such 222 00:16:42,620 --> 00:16:48,970 as wealth, social status, or material possessions in determining an individual's happiness, 223 00:16:48,970 --> 00:16:54,649 emphasizing the importance of physical activity, healthy habits, and a balanced lifestyle in 224 00:16:54,649 --> 00:16:57,360 promoting good health. 225 00:16:57,360 --> 00:17:01,790 Schopenhauer believed that good health was not only important for overall well being, 226 00:17:01,790 --> 00:17:05,949 but also played a crucial role in avoiding boredom. 227 00:17:05,949 --> 00:17:11,770 According to Schopenhauer, boredom could arise from a lack of physical activity and an unbalanced 228 00:17:11,770 --> 00:17:17,380 lifestyle but when people engage in regular physical activity, they feel more energetic 229 00:17:17,380 --> 00:17:19,980 and motivated, and their mood improves. 230 00:17:19,980 --> 00:17:26,020 This, in turn, helps them to stay focused and engaged, preventing boredom from setting 231 00:17:26,020 --> 00:17:27,020 in. 232 00:17:27,020 --> 00:17:32,179 To practice Schopenhauer's philosophy in our modern-day world, we can adopt several habits 233 00:17:32,179 --> 00:17:35,440 that promote a healthy and a balanced lifestyle. 234 00:17:35,440 --> 00:17:40,370 We can make a habit of engaging in physical activity, such as going for a daily run or 235 00:17:40,370 --> 00:17:43,890 walk, practicing yoga, or going to the gym. 236 00:17:43,890 --> 00:17:49,059 We can make conscious choices about our food intake, such as reducing processed food and 237 00:17:49,059 --> 00:17:53,419 increasing our intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 238 00:17:53,419 --> 00:17:58,590 A balanced and nutritious diet not only helps to maintain physical health but also has a 239 00:17:58,590 --> 00:18:02,450 positive impact on mental and emotional wellbeing. 240 00:18:02,450 --> 00:18:06,700 One can prioritize getting enough sleep and making sure we take breaks throughout the 241 00:18:06,700 --> 00:18:09,300 day to rest and recharge. 242 00:18:09,300 --> 00:18:14,800 Adequate rest helps to promote physical, mental, and emotional health and can prevent burnout 243 00:18:14,800 --> 00:18:16,400 and fatigue. 244 00:18:16,400 --> 00:18:22,460 By taking care of one's physical health, individuals could lead more fulfilling lives, free from 245 00:18:22,460 --> 00:18:28,540 negative emotions associated with boredom and other negative experiences. 246 00:18:28,540 --> 00:18:30,679 6. 247 00:18:30,679 --> 00:18:35,830 Embrace solitude In our final quote from Schopenhauer for this 248 00:18:35,830 --> 00:18:43,640 video, he says: “We can only be entirely ourselves as long as we are alone; therefore, 249 00:18:43,640 --> 00:18:49,870 whoever does not love solitude, also does not love freedom; for only when we are alone, 250 00:18:49,870 --> 00:18:53,159 are we free.” 251 00:18:53,159 --> 00:18:58,640 Schopenhauer believed that, from time to time, solitude is necessary for one to truly appreciate 252 00:18:58,640 --> 00:19:02,820 life and avoid the boredom that often comes with it. 253 00:19:02,820 --> 00:19:07,750 He believed that in order to truly appreciate the beauty of the world around us, we must 254 00:19:07,750 --> 00:19:13,900 first cultivate a deep appreciation for ourselves and our own inner worlds. 255 00:19:13,900 --> 00:19:19,919 Instead of constantly seeking external stimulation, we should, from time to time, use solitude 256 00:19:19,919 --> 00:19:25,070 as an opportunity to spend time alone, to reflect on our thoughts and feelings, and 257 00:19:25,070 --> 00:19:29,250 to explore our own interests and passions. 258 00:19:29,250 --> 00:19:34,830 He argued that when we are constantly surrounded by others, we become distracted by their interests, 259 00:19:34,830 --> 00:19:39,880 opinions, and activities, and we lose touch with our own inner selves leaving us unable 260 00:19:39,880 --> 00:19:43,780 to fully appreciate the richness and complexity of life. 261 00:19:43,780 --> 00:19:48,740 In his view, those who are constantly seeking the approval of others, or who are overly 262 00:19:48,740 --> 00:19:54,130 preoccupied with external distractions may find themselves constantly chasing after the 263 00:19:54,130 --> 00:19:59,860 next thrill or pleasure, without ever experiencing true satisfaction. 264 00:19:59,860 --> 00:20:04,940 On the other hand, those who value solitude and introspection are able to develop a deeper 265 00:20:04,940 --> 00:20:07,540 sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. 266 00:20:07,540 --> 00:20:13,460 They are able to appreciate the beauty of nature, art, and music, and to find joy and 267 00:20:13,460 --> 00:20:16,660 fulfillment in the simple pleasures of everyday life. 268 00:20:16,660 --> 00:20:22,409 For example, imagine a person who is always busy socializing, going out with friends, 269 00:20:22,409 --> 00:20:24,630 attending parties and events. 270 00:20:24,630 --> 00:20:29,480 While they may initially feel happy and engaged with their social life, over time, they may 271 00:20:29,480 --> 00:20:33,360 start to feel a sense of emptiness and restlessness. 272 00:20:33,360 --> 00:20:37,740 They may find that their conversations with friends lack depth and meaning, and that they 273 00:20:37,740 --> 00:20:42,200 are always searching for the next exciting event or experience to distract them from 274 00:20:42,200 --> 00:20:44,700 their inner thoughts and feelings. 275 00:20:44,700 --> 00:20:49,990 In contrast, a person who values solitude may choose to spend their free time reading, 276 00:20:49,990 --> 00:20:55,590 writing, or pursuing hobbies that allow them to engage with their own thoughts and ideas. 277 00:20:55,590 --> 00:21:00,320 They may find that by spending time alone, they are able to discover new interests and 278 00:21:00,320 --> 00:21:05,490 passions, and to develop a deeper sense of self-awareness and inner peace. 279 00:21:05,490 --> 00:21:13,169 To fully appreciate the benefits of solitude, it's essential to eliminate external distractions. 280 00:21:13,169 --> 00:21:17,690 Schopenhauer's advice on finding solitude suggests disconnecting from technology by 281 00:21:17,690 --> 00:21:21,250 turning off your phone and logging out of social media. 282 00:21:21,250 --> 00:21:26,419 This way, you can avoid being sidetracked by external stimuli and concentrate on your 283 00:21:26,419 --> 00:21:31,809 thoughts and emotions, which can help you avoid boredom and gain a more profound appreciation 284 00:21:31,809 --> 00:21:33,070 for life. 285 00:21:33,070 --> 00:21:37,880 In short, Schopenhauer believed that solitude is not something to be feared or avoided, 286 00:21:37,880 --> 00:21:42,730 but rather, a necessary component of a fulfilling life. 287 00:21:42,730 --> 00:21:49,070 By taking the time to connect with our inner selves and explore our own interests and passions, 288 00:21:49,070 --> 00:21:53,450 we can cultivate a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in our lives. 289 00:21:53,450 --> 00:21:58,940 So the next time you find yourself feeling restless or uninspired, consider taking a 290 00:21:58,940 --> 00:22:04,230 break from the constant stimulation of the outside world and give yourself the gift of 291 00:22:04,230 --> 00:22:05,429 solitude. 292 00:22:05,429 --> 00:22:11,110 You may just discover an entirely new world of beauty and wonder that was just waiting 293 00:22:11,110 --> 00:22:15,630 to be uncovered within yourself. 294 00:22:15,630 --> 00:22:19,500 If you enjoyed this video, please make sure to check out our full Philosophies for Life 295 00:22:19,500 --> 00:22:24,510 playlist and for more videos to help you find success and happiness using ancient philosophical 296 00:22:24,510 --> 00:22:27,220 wisdom, don’t forget to subscribe. 297 00:22:27,220 --> 00:22:30,020 Thanks so much for watching.