On Monday, I turned 45.

I’ve lived 60.3% of my lifespan.

I have way less hair.

But at least I’ve held on to my six pack.

I left Wall Street so that I could have time freedom, raise my kids and surf every day. And I learned a few lessons along the way.

I’ll share 45 of them on workaholism, borderline alcoholism, finding aliveness, taking a huge pay cut and what to do when you find your favorite t-shirt.

This week on a solo episode of The Examined Life Podcast, Khe answers the question:

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My top 3 takeaways

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​Simple always beats complex

Vacation house, bigger car, more stuff. In Western culture, more is always better. But when things you own end up owning you, simplicity is peace. And peace is happiness.

→ Watch the clip
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Your success metrics matter

Money, power, fame and pleasure. No matter who you are vanity metrics will always fade with age. And then you eventually find out what’s left underneath. Have you spent time thinking about what really matters to you?

→ Watch the clip​
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It’s okay to just be

When is the last time you did something, not because it would make you a better, but just because? When you’ve spent your life trying to get better at work and at home, it can be hard to let go. But not everything needs to be a self-improvement project.

→ Watch the clip​

My favorite quote: One life design role to rule them all

Why this episode matters to me

45 feels like a big number.

It's the first time 50 (which truly feels like a milestone) is within striking distance.

But unlike many in middle age, I feel great.

I'm in the best shape of my life.

I've got ridiculous amounts of energy

And I love my family, and they love me back. (So I'm told.)

It hasn’t always been that way, though. I’ve worked hard to craft my life, and I’ve learned to appreciate how good I have it.

I hope some of the lessons I learned in 45 years can help you build a life you don't need to take a vacation from.

If you want to dig deeper

I wrote more about a few of my lessons:

• ​Time freedom is overrated​
• ​Why I love renting​
• ​Not everything is a self-improvement project​
• ​Not checking your net worth is weird​
• ​One day, you're no longer their favorite person​

Love letters from our fans

"Your podcast has been extremely helpful."

Hope you enjoy the episode,

Khe

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