What is your throughline?

We’re more scared of maybe getting an electric shock than we are of definitely getting an electric shock, such is our fear of uncertainty. Dr Maya Shankar, cognitive scientist and host of the popular podcast 'A Slight Change of Plans,' delves into the fundamental question of how human beings can better prepare for change. She points out that our most common fear regarding change is that it challenges our self-identity. Dr Shankar also emphasizes that unexpected changes can lead to lasting personal growth. In our conversation with Maya, after her thought-provoking TED Talk on the topic, she urges us to anchor our identities to things that feel more stable. We should focus not just on 'what we do,' but on 'why we do it.' This shift allows us to feel more secure in the foundations, helping us cope with the unsettling nature of change.