Brian JohnsonChairman & Philosopher in Residence at Heroic

APN87 - Musterbation & Shoulding on Yourself

17 Dec 2025 · 0 min

Episode

17 Dec 2025 · 0 min

0:00

A short podcast mini-chapter from Brian Johnson's A Philosopher's Notes that critiques 'musturbation' (doing things out of obligation) and 'shoulding on yourself.' Johnson urges listeners to avoid reluctant 'should' behavior and to act wholeheartedly when something is worth doing. The episode ends with a brief call-to-action linking listeners to Johnson's newsletter and book.

You're listening to Optimize with Bryan Johnson More Wisdom in Less Time this is a mini chapter from Brian's book A Philosopher's Notes. You can find it on Amazon.
Musturbation and Shoulding on Yourself Wayne Dyer has a great word, musturbation, which describes the fine art of doing things because you insert whiny voice here. Have to. It's kind of like Tony Robbins idea of shoulding on yourself. You know when you should do this and should do that and it's all should should should his perspective do something or don't do it, but quit shoulding on yourself. It's stinky. So how about you? You masturbating and shooting on yourself. Remember, lovers of wisdom do nothing reluctantly. If anything is worth doing, let's do it with all our hearts.
We hope you enjoyed this mini chapter from Brian's book A Philosopher's Notes. Want More Wisdom in Less Time delivered in your inbox? Sign up for Brian's free daily newsletter, the Optimizer, and get the full ebook and audiobook at brianjohnson Me APN.