logo
episode-header-image
Mar 2017
30m 32s

279. Why Is My Life So Hard?

Freakonomics Radio + Stitcher
About this episode

Most of us feel we face more headwinds and obstacles than everyone else — which breeds resentment. We also undervalue the tailwinds that help us — which leaves us ungrateful and unhappy. How can we avoid this trap?

Up next
Aug 22
What Can Whales Teach Us About Clean Energy, Workplace Harmony, and Living the Good Life? (Update)
In the final episode of our whale series, we learn about fecal plumes, shipping noise, and why Moby-Dick is still worth reading. (Part 3 of "Everything You Never Knew About Whaling.") SOURCES:Michele Baggio, professor of economics at the University of Connecticut.Mary K. Bercaw-E ... Show More
48m 11s
Aug 15
Why Do People Still Hunt Whales? (Update)
For years, whale oil was used as lighting fuel, industrial lubricant, and the main ingredient in (yum!) margarine. Whale meat was also on a few menus. But today, demand for whale products is at a historic low. And yet some countries still have a whaling industry. We find out why. ... Show More
37m 32s
Aug 8
The First Great American Industry (Update)
Whaling was, in the words of one scholar, “early capitalism unleashed on the high seas.” How did the U.S. come to dominate the whale market? Why did whale hunting die out here — and continue to grow elsewhere? And is that whale vomit in your perfume? (Part 1 of “Everything You Ne ... Show More
45m 2s
Recommended Episodes
Jan 2022
World of Wisdom: Feeling used
When we feel taken advantage of by people, it can be very hurtful and leave us feeling bitter. Giving a lot to our friends can come with the expectation that the same is offered in return. This is the experience of Jacob, from India. He speaks to Sister Dang Nghiem who suggests t ... Show More
18m 29s
Jul 2022
108. Should You Try to Be Less Angry?
What is the purpose of negative emotions? Why do we engage with things we know will upset us? And how does Angie deal with rejection? 
37m 27s
Mar 2024
Pourquoi est-tu malheureux ?
Il est frappant de constater que les personnes les plus malheureuses ne sont pas nécessairement celles qui ont subi les évènements les plus tragiques. Comment l'expliquer? De quoi souffrons-nous exactement ? #philosophie 
4m 44s
Jan 2022
The Aftermath || عواقب الحجر
People’s emotions and feelings are valid. Even if somehow you did not go through what they went through. We have no right to belittle anyone’s experiences. We can only be there for them. If we can’t show empathy to someone who is going through something bad; what kind of people d ... Show More
50m 28s
May 2024
Ep. 238 - Progress over pessimism in your breakup
Today, we're diving into a powerful concept: 'what you focus on grows.' It's a game-changer, especially after a breakup. Instead of getting stuck on what's broken, let's pivot towards what's working and celebrate our progress. We'll tackle how to redirect our focus for a smoother ... Show More
21m 19s
Aug 2023
When Life Is Unfair, How Can We Stay Happy?
Life frequently confronts us with circumstances that might appear unfair. We may encounter letdowns, such as not securing a job we were well-suited for, enduring heartbreak from a breakup, or feeling helpless in the face of societal issues we passionately believe need change. Nev ... Show More
10m 37s
Apr 2024
What Do You Do When The Bottom Falls Out?
At times, the unforeseen disrupts our plans. Whether it's losing a job, the end of a relationship, or facing health issues, it can completely upend our lives. How do we navigate these turbulent times with hope and not despair? How do we cultivate resilience and ease our anxieties ... Show More
10m 40s
Dec 2023
186 - Renunciation: Gaining Through Letting Go
This episode discusses how renunciation is not merely about giving up material or physical pleasures but about a deeper understanding and release of attachments that cause suffering. The episode invites listeners to consider the ways in which they might be clinging too tightly to ... Show More
15m 16s
Jun 2022
#13: How to Navigate the Fear of Rejection
In this episode, we're diving into the fear of rejection. Rejection is something so many of us struggle with, but for some people it can be really debilitating. We'll discuss how to navigate the fear of rejection and how this fear interfaces with other behaviours like a ... Show More
14m 57s