How to live

In this episode, Kunal returns to Sydney and discovers that the nostalgia he felt wasn't about the place at all—it was about who he was when he lived there. Through uncomfortable Airbnbs, expensive breakfasts, and the contrast between memory and reality, he uncovers a powerful truth about how we carry our own magic wherever we go. Key takeaways: - The joy we associate with past places often belong...

In this episode, Kunal shares a surprising discovery: his most profound meditation experience happened not in his carefully curated meditation space, but in a plastic chair at an Ed Sheeran concert, surrounded by 70,000 people and eating potato chips. Key takeaways: - The infrastructure we build around presence—perfect conditions, quiet rooms, ideal timing—can become a form of control rather than...

In this episode, Kunal shares how four years of living with a stunning Lisbon view taught him that postcards stop being postcards when they become your everyday reality—and why the discomfort of difference might be exactly what helps us see beauty again. Key takeaways: - The extraordinary becomes ordinary without contrast—appreciation requires fresh eyes and comparison to maintain perspective - Di...

In this episode, Kunal shares why he abandoned traditional goal-setting in favor of choosing a single word to guide his entire year. Speaking from Lisbon after reviewing his journals, he reveals how this practice shifted him from efficiency to effectiveness—from moving fast to moving in the right direction. Key takeaways: - Efficiency and effectiveness aren't the same: goals can make you move quic...

On this Mother’s Day and her milestone birthday, I reflect on my mother, now living far away. Distance has allowed me to see her in a new light, recognizing her beyond just "Mom"—as a person with quiet strength and sacrifices unseen. As I've grown, her influence has become more apparent in my actions and instincts, showcasing how deeply she shaped me. I’ve learned that gratitude isn't just express...

The author recounts a blackout experienced with their partner, contrasting it with a previous mild outage. Initially surprised and disconnected from the digital world, they gradually embraced the stillness by engaging in spontaneous cleaning and meaningful conversations. This disconnection from technology led to a deeper connection with each other. The blackout became an unexpected source of joy a...

The author reflects on the psychological barriers that can make seemingly simple tasks feel overwhelming, using the example of refreshing their AI newsletter website. Despite believing it would be a quick task, cognitive load—stemming from decision-making, expectations, and perfectionism—made the task feel heavy. They eventually found the determination to start while on a flight and completed the...

The author reflects on the belief that anything is possible but acknowledges the pitfalls of trying to do everything. This approach led to superficial involvement in many areas, causing confusion about their true purpose. Over time, they realized that effective tradeoffs are essential, teaching that prioritizing focus is a strength, not a weakness. While societal pressures encourage constant expan...

After giving a talk on AI trends, the author was approached by a university student eager to learn AI. The student shared his efforts in online courses and projects, demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for learning, which prompted the author to reflect on his own learning journey. He recalled the joy of exploring and failing freely as a child, contrasting it with the goal-oriented, linear learning he...

The author reflects on the question of how to write effectively, moving beyond the common advice of "just start." They reveal that writing has been a significant form of self-expression for them, taking various forms like blog posts, personal notes, and journal entries. They point out that writing should be a personal journey rather than a task for grades, and that the pressure to produce perfect...

Making friends as an adult is a complex process that requires introspection, intentionality, and consistent effort. It starts with a decision to prioritize friendship, viewing it as essential rather than a luxury. Adult life often feels isolating due to remote work and diminishing spontaneous interactions, so individuals must actively create opportunities for connection. This involves stepping out...