#936 - Alex Hutchinson - How To Rewire Your Brain To Take More Risks

This episode explores the human drive to explore, examining its evolutionary roots and modern manifestations. Against the backdrop of the author's experience transitioning from a book on endurance to one on exploration, the discussion delves into the neuroscience of exploration, focusing on the role of dopamine and the "prediction error" it generates when encountering novelty. More significantly, the conversation highlights the "effort paradox," where the struggle inherent in exploration contributes to its inherent satisfaction and meaning. For instance, the analogy of choosing between familiar and unfamiliar restaurant dishes illustrates the trade-off between known comfort and the potential reward of discovery. The interview also touches upon the explore-exploit dilemma, suggesting strategies like assigning an "uncertainty bonus" to less familiar options and embracing optimism in the face of uncertainty to minimize long-term regret. Finally, the discussion extends to cognitive exploration, highlighting the brain's mapping of both physical spaces and ideas, and the potential negative impact of over-reliance on technology for navigation. What this means for listeners is a framework for understanding and harnessing their own exploratory drive, balancing the benefits of routine and efficiency with the rewards of embracing novelty and challenge.