Imagining our preferred future
- jeanne7629
- May 5
- 1 min read
Updated: May 12
I found this conversation masterfully led by Esther Perel. It made me realise how much the skills of counselling (empathy, accountability, comfort with uncertainty) are the very ones we need to navigate today’s communication challenges. Not just in couple's therapy (Perel's profession) but in everyday conversation.
Perel struck a delicate balance, inserting herself just enough to challenge and deepen the dialogue. I especially loved her point about how technology has stripped away friction, leaving us less able to deal with conflict and disagreement, vital parts of any real relationship. It made me wonder, is this true? Have we become so uncomfortable with things not operating at our pace that we chose to dismiss them altogether? It certainly doesn't sound far fetched, does it?
Frederik Pferdt’s optimism (that the future is shaped by the small choices we make in each moment) felt a little naïve at times, but inspiring nonetheless. And Amy Webb’s reflection that true happiness comes from becoming comfortable with deep uncertainty really stayed with me.
It’s a conversation that doesn’t tie things up neatly but invites you to stretch your thinking.
Learned lots! Very poignant part at the end there on behalf of Esther Perel - technology isn't interactive to the extent of having human feelings, and our capacity to connect as humans will continue to depend on the ability to understand the feelings of others.
Also loved Amy Webb's point on discomfort in the face of uncertainty, and her observation on the coping mechanisms that humanity has developed for this in the meantime (therapy, astrology, longevity! Hilarious!) Another wonderful share. Abbey x