What I Wish I Knew When I Was Younger

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  • čas přidán 26. 04. 2015
  • Learned helplessness can prevent people from achieving their goals, something I've experienced first hand.
    Check out Audible: bit.ly/AudibleVe
    More walk and talk videos: bit.ly/2Veritasium

Komentáře • 8K

  • @druhu4590
    @druhu4590 Před 4 lety +7961

    "To make a truly miserable man, have him believe that he can not change his future, yet have him believe that he could have changed his past." - Me just now, but you know I'm right.

    • @sawchawn
      @sawchawn Před 3 lety +160

      This is so on point!!

    • @ptsg
      @ptsg Před 3 lety +324

      The number one rule in time travel is to absolutely never interact with anything, because the slightest change could lead to a completely different today. So, the slightest change today may lead to a whole different future.

    • @jest.2486
      @jest.2486 Před 3 lety +152

      @@ptsg this doesn't actually have to be about time travel. it's just called the butterfly effect. This part at least, "So, the slightest change today may lead to a whole different future."

    • @ptsg
      @ptsg Před 3 lety +63

      @@jest.2486 That's true, but for me it started to mean something with the timetravel example so I normally use that one:)

    • @ivanmitt9450
      @ivanmitt9450 Před 3 lety

      True

  • @hananas2
    @hananas2 Před 5 lety +5211

    Me, being 18: "Hey, I'm young, I should watch this"
    And I'm glad I did.

    • @oscarsoda4720
      @oscarsoda4720 Před 5 lety +136

      Aim I'm a I'm I am 4 years old

    • @oscarsoda4720
      @oscarsoda4720 Před 5 lety +56

      Sjysitsydjcjckvk banana

    • @user-md3is4dq2d
      @user-md3is4dq2d Před 5 lety +81

      And of course, you had to make a comment in this format.

    • @X_rnas
      @X_rnas Před 5 lety +155

      @@oscarsoda4720 Very informative, thank you.

    • @oscarsoda4720
      @oscarsoda4720 Před 5 lety +37

      @@X_rnas welcome

  • @jasmineprieto51
    @jasmineprieto51 Před 2 lety +855

    I suffer from depression, and this video made me realize that learned helplessness has been making me sabotage myself. It also made me realize that I am capable of more than I think and it made me remember the times where I had achieved what I thought was impossible. This video made me feel less hopeless :)

    • @Timmiee76
      @Timmiee76 Před rokem +7

      I wanted to suggest that book too. Glad someone already did

    • @nitzanshu4695
      @nitzanshu4695 Před rokem +2

      Dam, so I'm the only one who cant get better with that? I mean, i got my weird ways get around that but nothing really helps for the long run

    • @oVividz
      @oVividz Před rokem +4

      I 100% recommend similar videos to this and BOOKS to get better, it really is crazy the things you read/hear sometimes. There are TONS people out there that have something YOU need to hear (this applies to anyone reading this comment :))

    • @spanishjohn420
      @spanishjohn420 Před rokem +4

      YOU can do ANYTHING you set your mind to, it just takes some hard work and real grit!

    • @guysumpthin2974
      @guysumpthin2974 Před rokem +5

      The “ways of the great oppressor “ (as described in the owners manual) have a great negative influence

  • @zeltroid1730
    @zeltroid1730 Před rokem +531

    This completely resonates within me. Born into poverty, my largest passion being the forward progression of human knowledge and for me to one day assist in these efforts. Now that Im 26, I've never felt so helpless. no family, no friends, just me and my own thoughts.
    Thank you for this video. Truly

    • @meep-4272
      @meep-4272 Před rokem +16

      You're not alone in this bubble. And so am I....

    • @matthewwolcott5984
      @matthewwolcott5984 Před rokem +43

      My mom took a class on poverty while getting her master's. She was telling me about how the problem of poverty is very difficult, partly because the problem is psychological. What he said about learned helplessness reminded me of that, in that people who grow up poor and have only ever really known poverty, might just accept it rather than strategizing how to change it.
      I come from a wealthy family, but my dad grew up poor and considers himself a self-made man. He would tell you that the trajectory of your life is completely in your control, you just need to have good habits and make smart decisions. As in, when you're young, invest in yourself first and foremost. Become very skilled at something, and somebody will pay you a lot to do it for them. Save your money and spend it wisely.

    • @nerenahd
      @nerenahd Před rokem +4

      Hang on there buddy, lots and lots of things worth doing, worth fighting for.

    • @ducktape-3470
      @ducktape-3470 Před rokem +2

      You go bro and we're here for you if needed

    • @ThePiemoney
      @ThePiemoney Před rokem +1

      I am also 26 and I think this video will change my life

  • @IKNOWTHINGS.
    @IKNOWTHINGS. Před 2 lety +3788

    When a science channel is more inspirational than a motivational channel.

    • @prajhualak
      @prajhualak Před 2 lety +16

      True!!

    • @excelevery8551
      @excelevery8551 Před 2 lety +14

      agree 💯

    • @gai6320
      @gai6320 Před 2 lety +4

      hmm

    • @JunkBondTrader
      @JunkBondTrader Před 2 lety +21

      Hey motivational channels never claimed to provide inspiration. Motivation ONLY. You may not know what you're gonna do, but you'll start doing it anyway :p joking obviously but got me thinking about the difference in these words. Motivated seems more concerned with the desire to physically carry out your goals, and inspiration with what exactly you're going to achieve. Though I suppose you can be inspired to be motivated. Ok just rambling to myself here, carry on.

    • @pranavkondapalli9306
      @pranavkondapalli9306 Před 2 lety +54

      @@JunkBondTrader I feel like motivational channels can't even provide motivation

  • @courtneysmith9807
    @courtneysmith9807 Před 7 lety +11301

    This is actually exceptionally helpful for someone young and confused about how to control their life paths

    • @markmchugh7740
      @markmchugh7740 Před 7 lety +58

      such as yourself?

    • @courtneysmith9807
      @courtneysmith9807 Před 7 lety +129

      +Mark McHugh exactly!

    • @mkt-7
      @mkt-7 Před 7 lety +19

      Me too

    • @LmaoOldAccount
      @LmaoOldAccount Před 7 lety +120

      Me too, and I feel incredibly happy and privileged to have learned this by myself. Seeing this video as confirmation is also a surprisingly profound and pleasant experience. I wish this video gets billions of view some day. 900k is far too little.

    • @entengummitiger1576
      @entengummitiger1576 Před 7 lety +57

      I wish the world had videos like this 15 years ago. Feeling helpless when I actually wasn't has been such a huge roadblock in my life

  • @moritztrosin4485
    @moritztrosin4485 Před měsícem +4

    I am watching this video at 20 years old, at the start of my second semester at university and all the stress and pressure is really getting to me and I get the feeling of helplessness and overwhelming. Often times I wish there was someone to help me, but time and time again I see myself alone with all the problems I have to face and realise that I have to be the one overcoming them on my own.
    This video helped a lot to realise that everyone had times in their lives like this and that there is always a way, even though you can‘t always see it at first.

  • @dumbass1611
    @dumbass1611 Před 2 lety +24

    For some reason the YT algorithm decided to send this to me. 7 years later. Just in time for a major change in my life. Thank you my guy, this advice will be carried with me for the rest of my life.

  • @rz8773
    @rz8773 Před 3 lety +2341

    when working as an employee I did not try to use my creativity to solve problems, I always asked my manager.
    the simple reason: I was afraid of being punished if I tried to be creative.

    • @youmaybehighstrungbutimlok1601
      @youmaybehighstrungbutimlok1601 Před 3 lety +126

      I get punished for being creative at my job.

    • @emilioteran7867
      @emilioteran7867 Před 3 lety +329

      @@youmaybehighstrungbutimlok1601 things you wouldn't want to hear from your surgeon

    • @MrBruh-xc1qy
      @MrBruh-xc1qy Před 3 lety +13

      @@emilioteran7867 😂

    • @tarkalak
      @tarkalak Před 3 lety +7

      I never faced this problem. I don't think I would stay at such a place if I have a choice now. If it was my first job, I don't know, I might have learned helplessness.

    • @RandyKalff
      @RandyKalff Před 3 lety +69

      I'm working on my own company and I may become successful enough to start hiring people for some of the work, so I already have a plan of action for them.
      Instead of supervising every decision and every action, I'd give them a list of limitations and abilities.
      Basically, I tell them what they definitely aren't allowed to do, like stealing the products for themselves, and what they can use to get the job done, like provide discounts to solve complaints.
      Everything I don't directly address is all for them to decide and if they make a mistake, it's my fault for not preventing it, not theirs.
      Pretty much, I'd give them control over their own little realm in order to not have to do all the work myself at the risk of them making mistakes I wouldn't.
      That strategy is my decision, so what goes wrong is my responsibility.

  • @omnitroph1501
    @omnitroph1501 Před 3 lety +3532

    "Does our school system promote learned helplessness?"
    Yes. Absolutely yes.

  • @EVERYTYME
    @EVERYTYME Před 2 lety +52

    I stumbled across this video a little over a year ago. You have actually changed my life! It was like a switch went off in my head! Quit my job at target and now a manager in logistics!! I had a hell of a year...I've never put as much effort into anything else as I have trying to change my life and im finally happy with who I am! This video really lit a fire under my ass!! Thank you!

  • @ldlorenz
    @ldlorenz Před 2 měsíci +4

    The best business motivation speech I ever received was "You're closer than you think. " It was true and changed my life.

  • @danielfinch9437
    @danielfinch9437 Před 2 lety +2993

    "Whether you think you can, or you think you can't - you're right." - Henry Ford

    • @SenhorAlien
      @SenhorAlien Před 2 lety +91

      I think I can fly, excuse me as I jump from that skyscraper.

    • @mayamanign
      @mayamanign Před 2 lety +244

      @@SenhorAlien please do so if that is what you got out of that.

    • @apennameandthata2017
      @apennameandthata2017 Před 2 lety +29

      More important is trying even when you think you can’t.

    • @SenhorAlien
      @SenhorAlien Před 2 lety +10

      @@mayamanign what I got out of that is that the quote is stupid. There are better ways to phrase it than that. Now please, go jump off a building yourself.

    • @manovonor
      @manovonor Před 2 lety +20

      Sometimes you really can't.

  • @suricate2964
    @suricate2964 Před 3 lety +783

    "They didn't know it was impossible, so they did it"

    • @killerkhalsa27
      @killerkhalsa27 Před 2 lety +8

      That quote hit me 👌🏽

    • @Lucas98M
      @Lucas98M Před 2 lety +17

      "They didn't know it was impossible, until they did"
      Reverse Coaching

    • @iwbmo
      @iwbmo Před 2 lety +24

      theres a story of a person who was late to class saw an equation on the board thinking it was homework so they solved it and later found out that it was actually impossible and that the professor was talking about how the equation on the board was impossible

    • @aradhyajain2064
      @aradhyajain2064 Před 2 lety +13

      @@iwbmo yeah i heard about it a while ago it was actually a very important equation that many mathematicians were working on until he was able to do it. and he wasnt even exception or talented in any way, he just thought that it was homework so he kept trying and eventually did it

    • @Hak616
      @Hak616 Před 2 lety +2

      @@aradhyajain2064 What they fail to tell you is it was a Math major, George Dantzig who was a PhD in Mathematics and unknown but famous at the time (WW2).
      One never learns from these stories because they are inaccurate therefore pointless.

  • @tusharpandey858
    @tusharpandey858 Před 2 lety +65

    Im a 24-year-old recent graduate and still haven't figured out my future, being born in helplessness sometimes does block your capable brain.
    have a degree in architecture and possibilities are endless but hope is all I need and I have none of it.
    this video gave me a new hope and a different angle to see life across seas are similar to me and humans are the same as me around the globe I just need the will to do

    • @DarkSwordsman
      @DarkSwordsman Před 2 lety +1

      Is it going better now?

    • @akashpaul2960
      @akashpaul2960 Před 2 lety +1

      You can do it bro. Work harder and have hope.

    • @syedsakifrahman3021
      @syedsakifrahman3021 Před 2 lety +2

      C’mon, this should be obvious. You obviously will succeed. This just looks like the perfect thing that you needed. The perfect guy, without motivation. No way will you not be successful whether or not you take inspiration from this video. Even still, it is a personal failure but, what did happen after you watched the video? What happened between then and now? Were you able to achieve what you wanted to? Let me know however which way it went.

    • @KingSheva-sh5qw
      @KingSheva-sh5qw Před 2 lety

      Depression a big rough time, the more present the purpose the grater the incentive. The hardest part is getting started 1 set a goal and don’t tell anybody about it just do them tell them once your finished if you want to. 2 find meaning to your life a grander purpose that goes beyond your life it can be family(as it is for most)or anything but that really helps get you going even if you really don’t want to.

    • @karabatutv3760
      @karabatutv3760 Před rokem +1

      How is it going 5 Months in?

  • @monishm2404
    @monishm2404 Před rokem +51

    This man gives more knowledge than one can learn in their entire life time by themselves

  • @joynohemi
    @joynohemi Před 3 lety +428

    "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
    and the courage to change the things I can,
    and the wisdom to know the difference."

  • @bradbeattie
    @bradbeattie Před 9 lety +434

    So some friends and I in Vancouver have a fake holiday that we've celebrated now for maybe 3-4 years. It's called St. Project's Day.
    Every autumn when the weather starts to get grey and rainy, each person adopts a secret project on their own and works on it throughout the duration of the winter. The project has to be something new to you, something that exposes you to a bit of the unexplored.
    Come spring (early May perhaps?) when the weather is finally nice enough to have a beach picnic, we share a meal with food and drink, and we present to each other the results of our efforts. Two years ago I picked up French after failing it in grade 9 (I'm reasonably conversant now!). This year's project was yoga (I can finally touch my toes without issue!).
    I think St. Project's Day is relevant to this video as it's a yearly exercise in trying the things we don't know how to do, striking out on your own and struggling through the "I can't do this" moments.

    • @reemCGR
      @reemCGR Před 9 lety +11

      Brad Beattie That's the coolest holiday ever! =D

    • @shawniscoolerthanyou
      @shawniscoolerthanyou Před 9 lety +19

      Stealing that.

    • @bradbeattie
      @bradbeattie Před 9 lety +31

      SirVixIsVexed In retrospect, I wish I'd recorded even 15 seconds of progress per week so I could make a montage out of the winter's work. Maybe next year's project. Eye of the Tiger soundtrack? ;)

    • @Geeksmithing
      @Geeksmithing Před 9 lety +5

      Brad Beattie Please make a video regarding this concept. Very cool idea.

    • @gandalfthegrey2171
      @gandalfthegrey2171 Před 9 lety +3

      Brad Beattie C'est trés bien Brad!!

  • @missasyan
    @missasyan Před rokem +152

    I genuinely needed to hear this man. Every time, I feel like I can't change things. I'm so scared of failing man. But hearing you already tried to take that leap, with acting or film schools or whatnot, I get more hope. That there is always another way. For the first few minutes in this video I could tell where it was going. I was thinking "I know there is a way to change. I don't know if I can do it.". but you won't know until you try, right?
    I don't know why every time my career comes up I end up crying really hard. I'm so scared of letting everyone down. I'm only 16, and I know life will follow I just to get high school over with and worry about the rest when I get there, that I shouldn't worry so much and just do. I don't know then. Why I always cry when I hear reassuarances like these. I don't have talent so I have to build up the skill. And that's so scary. Because as someone who is considered smart, I have never failed for real. Anything I try, video games, I eventually get better slowly and if not I lose interest. But it's my job we're talking about. Maybe I should give up and be an academic instead, I think every single time. I don't know why I worry so much when I haven't failed yet like you have. When you make a misstep and or fail. I'm so scared of making that step before I even get there. I don't know dude. It's turning into a word salad and Damn I need to wash my face I'm out

    • @user-ck3hb4kx3o
      @user-ck3hb4kx3o Před rokem +21

      I'm impressed, dude. I'm sure that the majority of 16-year-olds like you aren't able even to elaborate this kind of "speech". I think you have a great future ahead, just don't overthink things and try, try, try. Talk to your family and friends as much as possible and find people that support you. Good luck, my friend.

    • @danielzhakobin2918
      @danielzhakobin2918 Před rokem +8

      I can assure you, next decade will be the most fun you've had in a while. No matter the end result. It is also great time to experiment, since you have all the time in the world. I am 29 now and I finally got the courage to do 180 on my successful career, in order to chase my childhood dream. The moment you start is when you don't have the time to hesitate anymore. And it kind of goes from there. It gets easier the more you fail, so wish you good luck

    • @missasyan
      @missasyan Před rokem +4

      @@user-ck3hb4kx3o Yeah man! I try my best not to overthink, it's just every time the topic comes up I end up givin myself a headache from all the intrusive thoughts of failure. LOL but when I'm normal I'm just sat down practising and stuff. Thanks man

    • @missasyan
      @missasyan Před rokem +5

      @@danielzhakobin2918 Yeah, once you get into it you can't hesitate. I'm not there yet, so man, you're right, I just need to get up and do it. I'm glad you were able to do it too, man! I get scared that if I fail, I'll be forced to take some other job, but even so, there's always a way for me to get back into it, like you did! Thanks man

    • @fanatic4536
      @fanatic4536 Před rokem +1

      If you are looking for direction/discipline/education/etc I’d recommend joining the USAF. It’s a little known life hack to get free education. I got a cyber job and plan on pursuing cyber security when I get out at the end of my 4 year contract.

  • @levah81
    @levah81 Před 2 lety +4

    "What I Wish I Knew When I Was Younger" 7 years had passed, so wish granted. You knew this things when you was younger.

  • @yazzze
    @yazzze Před 6 lety +962

    This is one part of why abuse victims have such a hard time getting away/leaving.

    • @David-ud9ju
      @David-ud9ju Před 5 lety +66

      Exactly my thought. I think Stockholm Syndrome probably has something to do with this as well.

    • @fartyperson
      @fartyperson Před 5 lety +56

      It's probably what leads to the syndrome

    • @TheDarkJohns
      @TheDarkJohns Před 4 lety +13

      Yes, maintain this, please!
      I love people thinking and associating correlations out of things.
      Maybe once I break the "impossible" dream of creating a new "Alexandria Library", or at least raising something big enough to be a "Shelter" for people to gather, learn and share thoughts, all together, we can meet there! xD
      I do believe the world would benefit a lot out of a spread search for knowledge and sharing philosophy.
      More than with the competitive and job searching mindset our most common current educational system guides us to.

    • @raunak8889
      @raunak8889 Před 4 lety +2

      @@TheDarkJohns What is the library, can you show some light?

    • @weneedmoreconsideratepeopl4006
      @weneedmoreconsideratepeopl4006 Před 3 lety +1

      @@raunak8889 I'm not the one you asked, but I couldn't resist sharing: How about something like Library Genesis + Quora + Reddit combined? ಠಿヮಠ
      When I think of collecting knowledge/insight/experience and sharing it with a community... Those are the ones that come to mind.

  • @sisyphus0324
    @sisyphus0324 Před 4 lety +718

    _"Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change and the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference."_

    • @matiasrisso5917
      @matiasrisso5917 Před 4 lety +28

      Those are 3 of the 4 core values in the Stoic philosophy.
      -Wisdom
      -Courage
      -Temperance (serenity)
      -Justice, is the one missing and it's the one that focuses on our interactions with other humans.

    • @cormacgillen6553
      @cormacgillen6553 Před 4 lety +4

      en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serenity_Prayer

    • @davidcadman4468
      @davidcadman4468 Před 4 lety +6

      That may be fine for a stoic, who isn't going to get ahead in life, and is satisfied with being put down, and accepting the situational punishment. But for someone who is geared for getting ahead, that is a challenge, and a wall to get over.
      NEVEAH ACCEPT ANYTHING LESS THAN YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF,
      DEFINITELY NOT SOMEONE ELSE"S VERSION OF YOU!!

    • @deathsurgeon231
      @deathsurgeon231 Před 4 lety +7

      @@davidcadman4468 you are interpreting stoic all wrong dude. Accepting any thing less than your authentic self is not stoic way but rather having wisdom to differentiate what is changeable (achievable) and whats not is true stoic way.
      Of course being your authentic self no matter what is achievable so pursuing it is actually stoic way.
      Lets take another example as whats other think of you is unchangeable so accepting it is fine but affect of others thinking on you is changeable and so not letting their's thinking and view get you and continuing as your trueself perusing your dream is true stoic way.
      And i do believe all those who achieved true success are true stoic knowingly or unknowingly cuz they had wisdom to know which wall can be overcome, strength to overcome it and accepting any collateral damage while overcoming it. They just dont realize they are following stoics way.

    • @Vitaliuz
      @Vitaliuz Před 4 lety +12

      For anyone who's wondering - it's the Serenity prayer.

  • @asadhafeez9681
    @asadhafeez9681 Před 4 měsíci +3

    This video changed my life 7 years ago, I cannot thank you more to open my eyes and I never close them since then.

  • @tracycrawford6826
    @tracycrawford6826 Před rokem

    A great public service! Learning how and then looking back and saying, “hey, I could help them get here!” Is a really great thing and very honorable. Thank you.

  • @juneru2
    @juneru2 Před 4 lety +2291

    unlike most motivational videos, theres no distracting music, or the guy screaming at you, or some glaring scenery, or over-thought script:
    just an average guy walkin around tellin ya things that really help

    • @shashanksams
      @shashanksams Před 4 lety +38

      juneru you should check out "exurb1a" - a youtube channel . um you can thank me later. have a good day ;)

    • @the_bottomfragger
      @the_bottomfragger Před 4 lety +102

      Agreed with one correction: I don't think we can call him an average guy ;)
      He is truly fascinating, met him about 2 years ago when he spoke at a university.

    • @rujuut2684
      @rujuut2684 Před 4 lety +3

      @@shashanksams 🙌🏼

    • @johnwielding5151
      @johnwielding5151 Před 4 lety +19

      Yeah fair point, most motivational videos these days are either cringe worthy or just straight up meaningless. And yes the music does not help.

    • @darshan5044
      @darshan5044 Před 3 lety

      Copied

  • @banban8481
    @banban8481 Před 3 lety +522

    This video somehow change my life twice, when in highschool my friend died because rare disease and it's slow and painful death. Then I quit highschool because depression. I come across this video and try to change my life for better and re-enter highschool.
    The second time is during highschool, at that time I just think about graduating. But I watch this video again and decided to try enter the best Engineering school in my country. Now I proud to say I got accepted. My journey will not end here, I will find a new goal to achieve.

    • @keerthisagar2200
      @keerthisagar2200 Před 3 lety +29

      Stay strong.
      You are made of the same things that the sun, the moon and the stars are made of.
      You are powerful beyond your wildest imagination.
      You are walking along side divine beings.
      You will see the light.
      Stay strong , for yourself and for all others.

    • @turolretar
      @turolretar Před 3 lety +8

      Our God is an awesome God, He is always within us and will guide us to our meaning.

    • @jellibeans4440
      @jellibeans4440 Před 3 lety +8

      nice dude, keep going

    • @joshuanejat1813
      @joshuanejat1813 Před 2 lety +3

      Keep it up legend!

    • @gkvscq
      @gkvscq Před 2 lety

      Good job and good luck dude!

  • @raphaelokai5981
    @raphaelokai5981 Před 2 lety +3

    I stumbled upon and re-watch this video 3x, and every time tears roll down my cheeks. Thanks to Derek I have found something valuable at a perfect time for me.

  • @Dd_Dexter
    @Dd_Dexter Před rokem +1

    im 22 and got stuck in my life. i thank utube and this man for this video. Thank you sir.

  • @ZuckThat
    @ZuckThat Před 7 lety +2345

    This is one of the most important videos on all of CZcams. Every young person should watch this

    • @achatinaslak742
      @achatinaslak742 Před 6 lety +9

      You are fully right!!!

    • @TheDarThaum
      @TheDarThaum Před 6 lety +4

      Amen brother

    • @niaschimnoski882
      @niaschimnoski882 Před 6 lety +7

      Yes. And millenials are lazy.
      (JK)

    • @roofpizza1250
      @roofpizza1250 Před 6 lety +3

      I recall a young girl who recently worked for us, we are in retail sales with expensive items. When a new item comes in we mark it up a fixed amount (100% for example), we then discount it 25% so the public see a deal and are more likely to buy and we get a profit of 50% from the wholesale price. One day, she sold an item that was marked up only 10% by mistake so we actually lost money on the sale. The scary part was she knew there was an error but still continued with the sale and only brought it up later rather than when it would have been beneficial to the company. I didn't keep her on even tho she seemed otherwise competent.

    • @VaughnRhinehart
      @VaughnRhinehart Před 5 lety +7

      Zuck That my band director is constantly complaining about learned helplessness among the band members. I very much agree with him, however, many people simply call him mean.

  • @jaivanthmelanaturu4589
    @jaivanthmelanaturu4589 Před 5 lety +439

    "You have to demonstrate that you can do what you wanna do"
    You nailed it man....very motivating

  • @kella2007
    @kella2007 Před 2 lety +63

    When I was in year 4 my parents took me out of school to home-school me, something interesting I just realised is that school had in fact made it very difficult for me to make my own choices. I was never able to do studying without someone telling me what to do and it took me around a year to get over it and I just realised it was learned helplessness. It was definitely damaging and I am glad I know what it was now. After that, I became a lot more independent and studying was a lot easier for me, it was also easier for me to deal with a lot of different real-life situations as I had to do things on my own quite a lot. I think one thing about school as said in this video is that you learn to follow, not to lead and that is probably the greatest flaw in the education system. People are growing up not knowing how to deal with things and are probably struggling with things that would be so much easier if we learnt better. Thanks for making the video, it was really eye-opening :)

    • @shivanshvaish7854
      @shivanshvaish7854 Před 2 lety +2

      Dude I can relate When we have lockdown my sister teach me My maths was like so bad But now it's better even my grades In maths Get better by a lot.......

    • @albeit1
      @albeit1 Před rokem +1

      Being spoonfed is not how we actually do most of our learning. It’s unnatural.

  • @prasadshrivatsa6126
    @prasadshrivatsa6126 Před 2 lety +4

    Schools everywhere must show this video to the young ones, not just once but from time to time and we might be able to help them in a big way.

  • @navaneethps6431
    @navaneethps6431 Před 3 lety +647

    This is the single best motivational video in internet! No one screaming at you, no weird actions done, no overwritten script that sounds like poetry; just a charismatic guy delivering pure experience and straight-up facts in the most authentic way. If this doesn't change you atleast a little bit, then I don't know what will.
    I wish I had a big brother like you @Veritasium ❣️

    • @Riley_Christian
      @Riley_Christian Před 3 lety +20

      Then Garry Vee jumps out of nowhere... "Stop being a lazy asshole and just do it!!" Do what Garry? your scaring me 😭

    • @bb-gb7jv
      @bb-gb7jv Před 3 lety +2

      @@Riley_Christian 😂😂😂😂

    • @ellespring6757
      @ellespring6757 Před 3 lety +1

      @@Riley_Christian 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 lmao garryyyy

    • @LoLHowTo
      @LoLHowTo Před 3 lety +6

      Agreed. The philosophy is old and true but the delivery and story is really good. Veritasium has mastered the art of story telling! Even the way he gets people to buy NordVPN is genius.

    • @prakash_77
      @prakash_77 Před 3 lety +2

      May you have the courage to call him as your big brother nonetheless. He may accept you as a younger sibling. You never know until you try!

  • @MetricZero
    @MetricZero Před 5 lety +760

    By golly I think he cracked the algorithm.

    • @misteragb7558
      @misteragb7558 Před 5 lety +4

      Great scott!

    • @stevethea5250
      @stevethea5250 Před 3 lety

      @@misteragb7558 Additional information
      Required: Required documents are required for your claim assessment.
      Supplementary: Supplementary documents are not required for your claim assessment, however may help determine if you are entitled to any supplementary payments and/or services.
      What happens if you don't complete the required tasks listed?
      If you don't complete the required tasks by 07 July 2020, we'll reject your claim and you'll have to make a new claim.
      Use the upload button to submit your documents. You can also take photos of your documents and submit them using your Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
      If you can't upload your documents, you can mail themor return them to a service centre.
      This notice is given under section 63 of the Social Security (Administration) Act 1999

    • @rehab_herr
      @rehab_herr Před 3 lety +1

      He is one of two people I know who have (other is PewDiePie), the trick is to just keep uploading. No matter what, daily/weekly videos with high quality (and not a fan base of 6 yr olds) will get you views.

  • @enkhjinenkhtuvshin4826
    @enkhjinenkhtuvshin4826 Před rokem +1

    Holy. MOLY.
    My worries have been comforted. Your other video about luck and hard work also just cleared up the gloom in my heart so much!!

  • @GLG
    @GLG Před rokem +1

    Crazy, I have spent my entire adult life as an entrepreneur in one way or another, I have struggled every single day, but have been free and loved every minute of it. Starting my channel and going full time I am feeling the exact thing you are talking about, and somehow with all my experience I missed it, I did not understand where I was and why I feel so lost. I was not looking to my own power, my own experiences, I was being helpless for no reason, you reminded me of my strength, and I will never forget it again, thank you!

  • @boyinaband
    @boyinaband Před 9 lety +9999

    Feel like I really needed that insight atm, cheers Derek :)

    • @rasmushaversen
      @rasmushaversen Před 9 lety +57

      Boyinaband This really made me think about everything, too :D BTW, youre awesome! ;)

    • @Mr.Erikstad
      @Mr.Erikstad Před 9 lety +9

      Boyinaband I really honestly feel the same.! :)

    • @nextlifeonearth
      @nextlifeonearth Před 9 lety +13

      Boyinaband You're exactly who I thought about when he mentioned the schools, a bit earlier even. Cheers mate.

    • @christopherritschel4115
      @christopherritschel4115 Před 9 lety +8

      Yas i thought the same i love seeing my fav CZcams's in the same places c:

    • @Dronebertios_World
      @Dronebertios_World Před 9 lety +3

      Dude your hair makes young Fabio's hair look like a bad toupee.

  • @joeybassbass
    @joeybassbass Před 3 lety +1096

    I think of it this way
    “It’s possible to change myself”
    “It’s not possible to change anyone else”
    “Changing yourself does more to change your world than you realize”

    • @ollivainionpaa684
      @ollivainionpaa684 Před 3 lety +10

      Meh, it is simple as yin & yang.
      Yin = Dogs, Passive, Negative, Feminine
      Yang = Cats, Active, Positive, Masculine
      And what do you mean by that you cannot change anyone or yourself?
      Passive person changes their reaction and active person changes their method.
      If you want to change someone's reaction then you need to touch their emotions, compliment/despise something they have.
      If you want to change someone's method then you need to touch their goal, move the chair further/closer.
      If you want to change someone who is passive and active, also known *independent* ... you note them about the thing they defy, relationship.
      Everything is about relationships, you just need to pick the side.

    • @davipenha
      @davipenha Před 2 lety +3

      @@ollivainionpaa684 no way dogs are on passive side and cats on active side. It's defenitely swapped

    • @ollivainionpaa684
      @ollivainionpaa684 Před 2 lety +9

      ​@@davipenha I know where you are coming from. You believe dogs are active because they are more out going and cats are just chilling.
      It is more psychological thing.
      Cats also want to do stuff but only if they think there is an end goal. Making them competetive and everything they do is a sport.
      Positive = They create a resource to spend.
      Dogs in other hand react on events and are doing stuff on mere impulse. So they do everything besed on their emotions.
      Negative = They spend the resource they get.

    • @Sovralin
      @Sovralin Před 2 lety +3

      Bring the change in you that you wish to see in the world?

    • @RobMedellin
      @RobMedellin Před 2 lety +3

      It is possible to change others, of course not 100% by yourself but I assure you anyone can make an impact on people. Maybe it's all semantic, but if someone on their car hit you with it while you were crossing their road, one would said that person will change your behavior when crossing the street and you can say you chose yourself to be more wary, so it's semantics maybe.

  • @vaibhavsahdev6615
    @vaibhavsahdev6615 Před 2 lety

    WOW! You are the first person I felt like subscribing not to help you but to help me! Every word out of you seems like a gem. Haven't felt like that about anyone other than supposedly enlightened mystics. Great Job brother👌 Thanks!

  • @mary-annbinond4664
    @mary-annbinond4664 Před 10 měsíci +50

    "Grant me the serenity to accept the things i can not change, and the courage to the things i can and the wisdom to know the difference" 7:15
    "It always seems impossible until its done" - Nelson Mandela 7:48

  • @plantman5126
    @plantman5126 Před 9 lety +111

    “All over the place, from the popular culture to the propaganda system, there is constant pressure to make people feel that they are helpless, that the only role they can have is to ratify decisions and to consume.”
    ― Noam Chomsky

    • @aluisious
      @aluisious Před 9 lety +2

      Adam G I'm not sure what Noam Chomsky has ever done other than very eloquently phrase things people talk about over the dinner table. He's no Isaac Newton or Wehrner Von Braun. Or Elon Musk.

    • @plantman5126
      @plantman5126 Před 9 lety +12

      aluisious maybe you look into him more

    • @aluisious
      @aluisious Před 9 lety +3

      I tried watching a movie about his life. To call it boring would be charitable. An iconoclast academic commenting on political and social issues...OK, whup de doo. What am I missing?

    • @aluisious
      @aluisious Před 9 lety +5

      Whoa whoa hold on there...the USA invaded Vietnam? Stop the presses, STOP THE PRESSES! And...my god, the media manipulates the masses? I had no idea.
      If you think those are profound observations, you probably should stick to watching movies.

    • @plantman5126
      @plantman5126 Před 9 lety +6

      aluisious it's not how profound things are it's having evidence of it

  • @marcelolopes5684
    @marcelolopes5684 Před 3 lety +700

    That is an absolutely powerful quotation: “Everything seems impossible until it is done”
    Congrats for the video, one of the best!

    • @blownapartmovies2243
      @blownapartmovies2243 Před 2 lety +6

      I feel like this is the personal ethos of people like Elon Musk, changing the way people view things in medicine, space travel and electricity. :/

    • @justdev8965
      @justdev8965 Před 2 lety +2

      Everything? ☺️

    • @wesleychan7575
      @wesleychan7575 Před 2 lety +2

      meanwhile in another video...
      Derek: Guys, we are going to talk about 3n + 1 today!

    • @swelihlembhele2450
      @swelihlembhele2450 Před 2 lety +1

      "It all seems impossible until it's done" - Nelson Mandela

    • @diceblue6817
      @diceblue6817 Před 2 lety

      terrible video full of lies

  • @yeosepp
    @yeosepp Před 11 měsíci +8

    thank you. i have been battling depression for the last few years and learned helplessness was definitely a big theme in my upbringing. now that I'm 21, there's this pressure that i suddenly have to grow up and figure things out on my own. thank you for what you said, i think the message you spread definitely has resonated with me and I'm sure it has to others as well. maybe i will wake up tomorrow and feel depressed but at least now, i know what this learned helplessness thing is and more importantly, that it is something that CAN change. it isn't an impossibility, but a choice we have the option to take. Thank you once again from the bottom of my heart. - Joseph

    • @jasminecontreras7341
      @jasminecontreras7341 Před 10 měsíci

      Joseph you got this! I'm 24 now but when I was 21 I think I went through something similar. Things got a lot clearer for me even though I still feel a little lost and directionless, just not as much. We'll overcome learned helplessness together along with all of the other 20 somethings and make this a great decade!

  • @aishwaryatiwari6894
    @aishwaryatiwari6894 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks so much for this, Derek. Been a regular sub of yours for years, but had somehow missed this one when today, all of a sudden, due to some algorithmic conspiracy, it landed on my feed, and I'm so glad it did. I really needed it. More power to you, man.

  • @XKobe
    @XKobe Před 9 lety +200

    And how do we help people break out of this condition? It's easy to say "Just believe you can do it", but some people are so used to failing it's ingrained inside them and they accept it as the norm.

    • @TomCCArt
      @TomCCArt Před 9 lety +25

      X Kobe You make it sound like failing is a bad thing

    • @xIPatchy
      @xIPatchy Před 9 lety +54

      Internet anon Well it's definitely a bad thing if you fear it, which a lot of people do. If you're afraid of failure, you won't achieve much success, and according to this video, you also won't seek success.

    • @coolbeatguy
      @coolbeatguy Před 9 lety +12

      This lifepath is not for everyone, which is great, otherwise society would break down because nobody wants to work for somebody else anymore

    • @TomCCArt
      @TomCCArt Před 9 lety +17

      Patchy
      Which is my point. Failing isn't a bad thing. Fearing failure makes you not want to fail, which makes you not do anything, which as you said, means no success. So it's the fear that's bad, not the failing itself

    • @TheiLame
      @TheiLame Před 9 lety +1

      coolbeatguy lol

  • @hollybee5949
    @hollybee5949 Před 5 lety +1776

    Does our school system reinforce learned helplessness? Yes. No where else on the planet have I been told I was stupid for trying a different way or that my way of thinking was wrong simply because it isn't in the specification and therefore won't gain marks on an exam.
    The entire system is so gaurded and washed-out, it forces children to think like robots and crushes uniqueness and creativity. Failure is now quantified and success is never enough.

    • @skunko1871
      @skunko1871 Před 5 lety +30

      That is why I am homeschooled.

    • @sureshkanna8308
      @sureshkanna8308 Před 5 lety +15

      Superb ! I thought it was only in our country! Finally i found someone like me😍

    • @sureshkanna8308
      @sureshkanna8308 Před 5 lety +5

      @Barindra Bal exactly😍

    • @michaelibrahim9275
      @michaelibrahim9275 Před 5 lety +7

      What kind of school did you go to? I didn’t have this experience at all

    • @raghavkamath
      @raghavkamath Před 5 lety

      Exactly

  • @Alexa3D1
    @Alexa3D1 Před 2 lety +1

    This truly "opened my eyes", we easily get stucked in this helplessness mentality

  • @Koolaid5583
    @Koolaid5583 Před 11 měsíci +2

    Thank you for keeping this up. I saw this when it came out and it's come to mind time and time again through time, but im glad i get to hear it again

  • @subscribefornoreason542
    @subscribefornoreason542 Před 5 lety +2710

    They gave electric shocks to dogs!
    *John Wick wants to know your location*

    • @boatygatling4782
      @boatygatling4782 Před 5 lety +18

      For science!

    • @fraserhenderson7839
      @fraserhenderson7839 Před 5 lety +20

      They gave (and give) shocks to everything. John Wick will be busy.

    • @alexdaland
      @alexdaland Před 4 lety +5

      Yes, and what did we learn? Today there is a company near where I live called "nofence", they put this in use with goats. So you can create a gps based "fence" when they pass the line, the collar start beeping more and more intense, and then a shock. The goats learn this within hours, and now they can be used for instance to clear power gates for miles and miles.

    • @smug1798
      @smug1798 Před 4 lety +4

      I think John Wick is still busy in China and Korea

    • @kunjbiharibudania4866
      @kunjbiharibudania4866 Před 4 lety +3

      @@alexdaland so sad

  • @DiamondTear
    @DiamondTear Před 5 lety +119

    You can tell this was ahead of its time because there's no Brilliant/Skillshare hook.

  • @pinkz7911
    @pinkz7911 Před rokem +10

    This hit with a lot more power watching it a second time around a few months later. I'm in high school and I've been thinking about college and how I've been doing, and I keep coming back to me having less opportunities because I didn't go to some elite high school and people who did got so many and such a better shot and all that. But in reality I just started high school and the only advantage anyone could have over me is believing they have an advantage and thus working hard, motivated by pride. I hope the next time that I watch this video I actually put in the effort required to achieve my dreams. Cya later.

  • @CView
    @CView Před 2 dny

    This is so brilliant and inspiring - 25 and have been itching to start something special. Need to realize that will only come to pass with my own action. Not being promoted or recognized. Love your videos - thank you so much for your work and story.

  • @AitoNitram
    @AitoNitram Před 3 lety +493

    The military teaches "learned helplessness" more than most. They tell you that you should never do anything on your own accord but can also punish you for not taking initiative when you could have, this makes people confused and almost more reliant on the person in charge. I believe the reason a lot of people stay in the military is because of this. You seldom take initiative, you are enouraged to ask for help and therefore rarely have to take responsibility for yourself.
    I did almost six years in the military, now I'm studying mathematics and physics at University, and I'm finally beginning to feel like my own person again.

    • @theterribleanimator1793
      @theterribleanimator1793 Před 3 lety +4

      @Pranjal Arya why he did it is irrelevant, how he did it is the correct question.

    • @infiniteroyalty
      @infiniteroyalty Před 3 lety +20

      Do you even know how difficult that is ...I’m sure you felt the pain when you were making those decisions but what you did is .. wow .... that’s a super tough cycle to come out of.. the programming runs deep and your strong enough soul to fight for your self out of that. Not many can over come mental programming society programming and physical programming! Huge huge huge congratulations what you did few have the courage to do!

    • @Bruno-dv3ym
      @Bruno-dv3ym Před 2 lety +2

      that is a perspective i have not though about, thanks.

    • @OlisGarage
      @OlisGarage Před 2 lety +21

      You must’ve not had a good experience. I always encourage people to take initiative. I try to always communicate intent to the lowest levels so that individual members can take initiative and solve issues before they get brought to a higher level.
      Toxic and poor leadership is a huge reason why people leave. Unfortunately the toxic leaders are too dumb to realize they are the issue and they often stick around the longest.

    • @LifTyLyM
      @LifTyLyM Před 2 lety +5

      In the military you are always responsible for yourself and everyone around you. When I was in the army we were encouraged to take our own descisions as long as it made sense. Leaders in the military have a very big responsibility and have to take many descisions.
      In the military you are put into harsh conditions, challenged and simply expected to survive on your own confidence. How is that learned helplessness?
      You must be an exception because most people comming out of the military make great leaders and are people who take action when needed.
      Honestly you don’t sound at all like someone from the army, it really suprises me that someone with years in the army have your attitude.

  • @MrWindholz123
    @MrWindholz123 Před 8 lety +425

    you really should do motivational speaking. i myself suffer(ed) depression and i know some people who suffer from that too. Some of your videos and thoughts answer so many questions most people don't even want to listen to and gives me so much inspiration and motivation as my whole family couldn't give me.
    thank you very much, keep going!

    • @kremzupa_69
      @kremzupa_69 Před 8 lety

      +Anders142536 Agreed.

    • @irfinity
      @irfinity Před 8 lety +5

      +Anders142536 glad to have you back :)
      pl work on removing the brackets in (ed)

    • @halweststar
      @halweststar Před 8 lety

      totally

    • @GurjotRandhawa
      @GurjotRandhawa Před 7 lety +1

      Start surrounding yourself with positive people

    • @crazsomelizard6507
      @crazsomelizard6507 Před 7 lety +1

      GurjotRandhawa it's not really that easy

  • @it_beann
    @it_beann Před 2 lety +2

    I needed this Derek, thank you for your wisdom throughout all of these years.

  • @toastythecod9745
    @toastythecod9745 Před 2 lety +21

    This video is really what I needed right now.
    Since I started directing my own learning, I feel like I've learned far more that I did in guided learning. I had this realisation that sometimes the greatest things are the things that I discover rather than the things that are given to me. Even if this means I have to invite some chaos into my life, take some risks and learn from some mistakes, it's better than the soft pillow of letting something else lead me somewhere. I've got a scary decision to make but I feel like I can see the right option.

  • @kemchobhenchod
    @kemchobhenchod Před 4 lety +684

    "School is kind of about taking control away from kids."

    • @thomastrzepacz9614
      @thomastrzepacz9614 Před 3 lety +18

      yeah, i was pretty much beat down by the time i would have graduated.

    • @InsideInterpreting
      @InsideInterpreting Před 3 lety +12

      This is part of the reason why we home educate.

    • @ericwalker6546
      @ericwalker6546 Před 3 lety +3

      Glad that didn’t happen when we were going to college. Things have definitely changed.

    • @thepersonbehindelonmusksuc1634
      @thepersonbehindelonmusksuc1634 Před 3 lety

      This is the reason why America is becoming the main point for terrorism

    • @Monkey80llx
      @Monkey80llx Před 3 lety

      I’m sure i’ve heard that quote in a youtube video recently

  • @karlmuster263
    @karlmuster263 Před 9 lety +9

    I think this idea demonstrates how helpful a hobby can be for a kid. It's a chance for them to succeed at something without someone else guiding them.

  • @Predeter100
    @Predeter100 Před 2 lety

    Wow i’ve been your sun for more then 6 years and i’ve seen you evolve so much. Thank you for the amazing videos and thank you for being an inspiration. So much so that I remembered this video and had to come back and watch right now that I’m feeling like i’m helpless

  • @stephens9227
    @stephens9227 Před 2 lety +4

    This is life-coaching/philosophy for oneself. I watched quite a lot of scientific experienments on this channel but not this one. I was confused three years ago due to that "learned helplessness" that I had to lean on some life mentors/guidances to make most decisions, but most of them didn't turn out to be what I wanted. I am grateful for this content and I am glad to watch it today even though I already had some hints on breaking "learned helplessness". Just like one of the comments said, one can only solve the problem when he/she realizes the problem.

  • @mennis7197
    @mennis7197 Před 2 lety +617

    I remember watching this video when it came out, was 17 that year and hated school. Now, 6 yrs later, I've gained so much experience, made a ton of friends, learned to be myself step by step, but got kinda lost since the start of covid. Listening to your advice, since all those yrs passed, I had to cry, cause I forgot how much power and control lies in my hands. Thank u Derek, much love from the Rhineland

  • @naufalmuhammad1941
    @naufalmuhammad1941 Před 8 lety +110

    This video easily put veritasium in my #1 favorite channel spot

  • @shakishingi
    @shakishingi Před rokem +3

    I figured this one out a few years ago but this video really hit home. Thanks for encouraging people to get outside of their comfort zone. For me this realization came when I started applying for jobs which had more qualifications than I believed I had. Low n behold I have better jobs now.

  • @NafisSadekeen
    @NafisSadekeen Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you Derek! Those were some real words of wisdom from you. You have been such an inspiration for a lot of us including me.

  • @jeffreysoriano5895
    @jeffreysoriano5895 Před 3 lety +313

    I needed this 20 years ago but I'm glad I'm hearing it now.

    • @pathania3377
      @pathania3377 Před 2 lety +10

      It's never too late to start what you love ❤️

    • @bogusmcbogus2637
      @bogusmcbogus2637 Před 2 lety +7

      You weren't ready for it 20 years ago if you feel you needed it 20 years ago. You're ready for it now.

    • @DunmoresMovieMania
      @DunmoresMovieMania Před 2 lety +1

      @@pathania3377 -- Yes. It is. With a name like Grim Perception, you should know this.
      I'm a piano teacher. When a 50-year-old comes to me and says they want to play the piano, they have too much stress, commitments, deadlines and responsibilities and infirmities to devote enough TIME to it to make it worthwhile. When you're 6, you can start piano and become great at it. When you're 50, with the exigencies of society burdening you at every turn, you have NO PHYSICAL TIME to become anything more than a single-finger plinker that can't really play anything.
      Hence, sometimes it IS too late to start what you love... sorry... grim but true...
      Veritasium is talking about a slightly different concept, though, not the "never too late" platitude.

    • @pathania3377
      @pathania3377 Před 2 lety +1

      @@DunmoresMovieMania well...yes!!😂
      50 might be a little too late...but a little range of age is still acceptable...as in teenagers or 20-30 maybe...
      Maybe to 50 year old person can learn after he is retired!! Then he might have enough time!😅

    • @alan4sure
      @alan4sure Před 2 lety +2

      @@DunmoresMovieMania same with guitar players who decide to learn at age 50. They rarely become half decent pickers, simple strumming in time will be their peak usually. And maybe they're not even keeping time properly.

  • @gonzaloayalaibarre
    @gonzaloayalaibarre Před 9 lety +41

    Are you seriously telling me that I could have picked up the legos lying around my room's floor all this time?! Man, all that unnecessary suffering.

  • @_destroyer08
    @_destroyer08 Před 2 lety +1

    I remember seeing this video 4 years back ago , I have saved and downloaded this video and watch it every few months to clear my mind and get rid of learned helplessness mentality .......

  • @zmoney412
    @zmoney412 Před rokem +23

    What a great video. The serenity prayer is basically gospel in alcohol and drug recovery. I’ve learned through the years, the only things I can’t control are the past and other people. Although others can be heavily influenced as well. There’s a derivative to the prayer. “Grant me the serenity, to accept the people I cannot change, the courage to change the one that I can, and the wisdom to know that it’s me”

  • @AzurumSounds
    @AzurumSounds Před 8 lety +83

    8:02
    Looks like he gave the poor chameleon a heart attack.

  • @baklavatatli7301
    @baklavatatli7301 Před 3 lety +254

    This presentation would make a good Graduation Day speech. Short, but loaded with insight and wisdom and inspiring. It is NOT the obnoxious "You can do it if you want" or "Never Give Up" type of speech that you hear from some successful people who are too full of themselves. It sort of hints at trying and putting in an effort without being so cocky and it is more thoughtful.
    Good job!

    • @musicalfringe
      @musicalfringe Před 2 lety +5

      I think that these kinds of "obnoxious" messages are misinterpreted at least some of the time. The point is not to tell people that everything's sunshine and roses, it's that they need guts of steel, endless determination, and a healthy dose of "F you" defiance to overcome the obstacles of life and reach their potential.

    • @narcoleptic8982
      @narcoleptic8982 Před 2 lety +4

      @@musicalfringe "work hard and you can achieve anything" literally says none of those things though, is the point.

    • @musicalfringe
      @musicalfringe Před 2 lety +4

      @@narcoleptic8982 That's why I literally said "some of the time". Slogans necessarily (and literally) lose that kind of nuance because they have to be short. That doesn't mean one should literally misinterpret them.

  • @theiabodium
    @theiabodium Před 2 lety

    One of the most encouraging things I have ever seen, thank you

  • @Stein254
    @Stein254 Před 8 měsíci +3

    Still remains one of your greatest videos!

  • @iamsheel
    @iamsheel Před 7 lety +76

    Learned Helplessness didn't stop me from trying, but it took away my hopes and enthusiasm

    • @a64738
      @a64738 Před 7 lety +1

      After a few more decades it will eventually stop you from trying also...

    • @iamsheel
      @iamsheel Před 7 lety +2

      Rondo Cat I'm OK with that :) it will be the time to rest

    • @lovedog49507
      @lovedog49507 Před 7 lety +1

      Just like me I am thinking about dropping out of college. I been in college over 10 years. I keep failing. I feel like a dumb ass. I have got some good grades, but I just cannot get to the graduation spot. When will I ever graduate.

    • @lemyngan
      @lemyngan Před 7 lety

      Then isnt it time for you to search for something better and actually works out? I mean maybe you will be good at any other fields but academic study?

    • @Anmol34
      @Anmol34 Před 7 lety

      lucia nguyen I have been in college since 7 years...

  • @dunzek943
    @dunzek943 Před 3 lety +682

    His message: "You're tougher than you think"

    • @moodsmoody4936
      @moodsmoody4936 Před 3 lety +45

      "And you are more in control of your life than you think"

    • @ericwalker6546
      @ericwalker6546 Před 3 lety +3

      Yes but you must believe it and not be tossed to and fro by every teaching that comes in front of you.

    • @dunzek943
      @dunzek943 Před 3 lety

      @@ericwalker6546 Yes this. A lot of introspection helps with that, for me at least.

    • @ericwalker6546
      @ericwalker6546 Před 3 lety

      @@dunzek943 yes introspective which most don’t do. You got it.

    • @nabieladrian
      @nabieladrian Před 3 lety +1

      Not only just endure, you can even change, more than you think.

  • @RobertJWaid
    @RobertJWaid Před rokem

    I really needed this video today, tomorrow, the next day, etc. Thank you for today's message, tomorrow's message, the next day's message, etc.

  • @Neuer_Alias_erstellen
    @Neuer_Alias_erstellen Před 4 lety +370

    8:02 Hey Vsauce here

  • @KingSheva-sh5qw
    @KingSheva-sh5qw Před 2 lety +384

    As a new entrepreneur I came to realize that nobody knows anything and everybody is just trying to work things out just like you, and I found that incredibly comforting because it reduced the pressure that I was doing something/everything wrong as there is no right way of starting a company.

    • @bradwibbels935
      @bradwibbels935 Před 2 lety +29

      That's with the entire work force in my opinion. I've had a decent amount of jobs (ranging from Lowes employee-Plumber-Telecom Sales Engineer etc.), and I'm always shocked by how things are done behind the scenes. It's usually way more simpler than people realize, but you just don't think about it or assume it's more complicated than it really is. I think you can honestly teach anybody anything, it just depends on if they want to learn it or if they even have the confidence. Referring back to what the video mentioned, about having the capability of figuring stuff out on your own if you actually tried, insecurity is a major driving factor for people who want to learn or be something, but don't put in the work to achieve it, I think they're scared they'll fail or that they're wrong. Confidence is the biggest advice I can give people going into the workforce. Competence and Confidence will take you far in any direction you decide to take.

    • @jom6987
      @jom6987 Před rokem +5

      @@bradwibbels935 That- really hit me like a train, in a good way. Thank you.

    • @johnstrawb3521
      @johnstrawb3521 Před rokem +1

      Wow--as a new entrepreneur you really DIDN'T know anything.

    • @southern_merican
      @southern_merican Před rokem +1

      I hope you find some decent employees that don't do you wrong and care about quality. Good luck with your new company.

    • @spanishjohn420
      @spanishjohn420 Před rokem +1

      100% - no one really know what they are doing, and you probably know more than they do.

  • @BasedCurly
    @BasedCurly Před 2 lety

    Derek, you have helped me immensely.
    I am grateful.

  • @gise1546
    @gise1546 Před rokem +1

    Derek was so good-looking in this video! I rewatch this when I'm feeling down and not capable.

  • @MarkLucasProductions
    @MarkLucasProductions Před 9 lety +35

    I am old. I tell people that I 'gave up' when I was 15. Thank you for this inspiring video.

    • @DeconvertedMan
      @DeconvertedMan Před 9 lety

      that whale looks like its made out of minecraft blocks.

    • @Laflamablanca969
      @Laflamablanca969 Před 9 lety +17

      I would say it looked like Lego blocks... Maybe that's the "olden days" coming out in me lol...

    • @boingyfly007
      @boingyfly007 Před 9 lety

      La Flama Blanca Not at all. I play Minecraft occasionally and I saw it as Lego blocks.

    • @NickRoman
      @NickRoman Před 9 lety

      La Flama Blanca Well, considering it probably was Lego blocks...

    • @toobeetoobeetoo
      @toobeetoobeetoo Před 8 lety

      +ArwenMeow Your comment works on multiple levels. Well said! As for Mark Lucas and many like him, believe me, they know.
      Anybody can do anything. However, most everybody requires a spark or inspiration to get going. Sadly those that need it the most don't get that spark.

  • @GuyWithAnAmazingHat
    @GuyWithAnAmazingHat Před 9 lety +419

    I think this is why we Asians generally lack initiative and do not dare take risks or behave outside of social conventions.
    Our rigid educational system alongside other cultural factors and even national service has forced us into learning helplessness.

    • @rashidkhwaja959
      @rashidkhwaja959 Před 9 lety +69

      It's not just Asians. It's humans.

    • @JeaneAdix
      @JeaneAdix Před 9 lety +12

      GuyWithAnAmazingHat I like your name

    • @Silverlance988
      @Silverlance988 Před 9 lety +26

      ***** Asians more than others though.

    • @steggyandchomp
      @steggyandchomp Před 9 lety +9

      GuyWithAnAmazingHat That truly IS an amazing hat. Hats off to you.

    • @adamrath7095
      @adamrath7095 Před 9 lety +3

      GuyWithAnAmazingHat Geez, tough break... You're probably onto something there.

  • @reb6418
    @reb6418 Před 10 měsíci

    This has bring tears and lots of encouragement to me in my Entrepreneurship. Thank you so much!

  • @augustoreyes8305
    @augustoreyes8305 Před 2 lety

    You have no idea (or maybe you do..) how helpful this video is right now to me. Thank you for sharing your experiences and this tremendous piece of advice.

  • @akashthina1
    @akashthina1 Před 5 lety +147

    You changed the title of the video and it made me click the video, until then it was just a recommendation on my CZcams which I never clicked.

    • @ChildRapist
      @ChildRapist Před 5 lety +17

      Akash Thinakaran strange, usually it is opposite for me: when i see a vid with a title like that i just assume that it is another pointless "motivational" mumbling from some "life guru", only after seeing that it was from Veritassium i gave it a shot

    • @ToX1CxHaZe
      @ToX1CxHaZe Před 5 lety +33

      What was the original title of the video?

    • @dataexpunged6969
      @dataexpunged6969 Před 4 lety +3

      @@ToX1CxHaZe guess we'll never know. AND I WANTED TO KNOW

    • @ToX1CxHaZe
      @ToX1CxHaZe Před 4 lety +1

      @@dataexpunged6969 me too :(

    • @Taylorman777
      @Taylorman777 Před 4 lety +8

      @@ToX1CxHaZe I thought it was "Learned Helplessness."

  • @SkateSafeNow
    @SkateSafeNow Před 5 lety +226

    Thank you @ age 52
    You actually made this happen for me...

    • @HamzaShams_
      @HamzaShams_ Před 5 lety +8

      Hey what's jerry rig doing here ?

    • @osh100
      @osh100 Před 5 lety +6

      @@HamzaShams_ big hamz from high school? nice to see you again

    • @mihirsahu4519
      @mihirsahu4519 Před 4 lety +1

      @@osh100 hey fam, unexpected to meet you here, but don't you remember his name was changed to Tiny hamz after his first date?

    • @osh100
      @osh100 Před 4 lety +1

      @@mihirsahu4519 i heard that the girl couldn't walk after big hamz was finished with her, don't know where you're getting this 'Tiny hamz' from?

    • @ashtonduda9971
      @ashtonduda9971 Před 4 lety

      @@osh100 wrong

  • @willv88
    @willv88 Před 2 lety +1

    This was an excellent clip and I feel like this is all a step that we should take. Taking control of your own destiny. I do want to add that I did ask for help and had mentors along the way who helped nudge things along. So I would say that you need to know who you are, but you don't need to be afraid to ask for help. And as you have been doing Derek, you can indeed help others.

  • @Forest0119
    @Forest0119 Před 2 lety +1

    watching this video again 7 years later, is really surreal. I completely forgot about the actual video, buts its message as followed me from my 20 year self in college to my 27 year old self with a full time job as an electrical engineer at Boeing.

  • @chesseswar
    @chesseswar Před 9 lety +79

    Does this mean that optimism is better than realism?

    • @josh11735
      @josh11735 Před 9 lety +84

      The thing is, pessimism =/= realism. He's saying that you shouldn't assume that your situation is unchangeable (that's not realism, that's learned helplessness which can ultimately amount to pessimism), because it is more than likely changeable (depending on the situation of course). If anything, the optimism that things can be changed can be considered the more realistic option; the key is that (once you have all the facts of your situation) you just have to try and do something about it.
      At least, that's how I felt he explained it :)

    • @loupax
      @loupax Před 9 lety +1

      Pranav Eswaran Well, it does have the potential to send you to more places.

    • @nerdexproject
      @nerdexproject Před 9 lety +7

      Pranav Eswaran Exactly! As a matter of fact pessimists are actually more often successful in making predictions that turn out to be true, yet optimists walk through life easier anyway since they deal better with problems! Realism is something in between that actually *nobody* can achieve anyway! You're either more pessimstic or optimistic but never completely realistic! And for said reason it's better to tend to the optimistic side!

    • @Blechhower
      @Blechhower Před 9 lety +1

      Pranav Eswaran Seems to be the case. I'd agree with that statement.

    • @GrimFaceHunter
      @GrimFaceHunter Před 9 lety

      Pranav Eswaran Or maybe that realism simply beats pessimism? Or maybe even beats optimism too.

  • @wouldntyaliktono
    @wouldntyaliktono Před 9 lety +255

    Build a giant lego orca whale? Impossible!!

    • @steggyandchomp
      @steggyandchomp Před 9 lety +15

      wouldntyaliktono The fact that this video features a giant lego orca suggests that it is indeed possible,

    • @spoderman15
      @spoderman15 Před 9 lety +13

      Dave Dainton ...

    • @beefcakeandgravy
      @beefcakeandgravy Před 9 lety +2

      wouldntyaliktono Orca is not a whale. It's more like a dolphin.

    • @ganondorfchampin
      @ganondorfchampin Před 9 lety +17

      George Smith Dolphins are whales.
      Gay whales.

    • @beefcakeandgravy
      @beefcakeandgravy Před 9 lety +1

      ganondorfchampin begone fool.

  • @trockenfruchte468
    @trockenfruchte468 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I think this is the third time in 4 years that this video ended up on my main page, so this is the third time watching it fully. The longer I think about it, the more I believe that this video has influenced me and my decisions significantly, yet subconsciously, which likely helped me keeping a rather positive mindset, despite going through hard times. It probably helped me improving my english to a degree where I am able to convey such a deep message in a language which isn't my native language. Every time I rewatch this video, I try to remember the past times when I watched this video, seeing that despite all difficulties, I've nevertheless made progress. Every time I rewatch this video, I understand another part of it (differently). I'm looking forward to the next time when this video pops up on my main page. Thank you

  • @flpneri7
    @flpneri7 Před rokem +1

    100% true. Greatings from Brazil.

  • @texmex0923
    @texmex0923 Před 2 lety +178

    "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step" -Lao Tzu. The most important, yet hardest step.

  • @und9r
    @und9r Před 9 lety +132

    5:57
    Thanks Derek, that segment really opened my eyes. I'm in that situation where I applied multiple times to film schools and never got accepted, but I've just realized that I don't have to wait to get someone else's acceptance to begin to work on my goal. In fact it doesn't matter at all, I'm going to do what I want to do, whether or not I get to go to a film school this year.

    • @liefwerk
      @liefwerk Před 9 lety +5

      ifeelitbro I feelit too bro!

    • @supertigik
      @supertigik Před 9 lety +4

      ifeelitbro you know what ? you encouraged me to not go to medschool and do things on my own ! thanks !
      !

    • @supertigik
      @supertigik Před 9 lety +5

      ifeelitbro Kappa

    • @rahulfazeclan3975
      @rahulfazeclan3975 Před 9 lety +4

      The comment and the profile picture. Perfect fit

    • @ChinnuWoW
      @ChinnuWoW Před 9 lety

      ifeelitbro So what are you going to do then to achieve?

  • @cish8670
    @cish8670 Před rokem

    The quality of this content never gets Old
    Thank you

  • @user-be3ri8gf1p
    @user-be3ri8gf1p Před rokem +7

    That video has some sort of true beauty in it, that makes it "speak" to young people (yup, I've done some sort of experiment on my own) louder than any motivational bsht.
    It's really challenging, at least for me, not to think of improving something in my everydayness, every time I end up watching it again.

  • @manishkes1
    @manishkes1 Před 2 lety +40

    I have realised that it depends on how bad you want to do something. If you want to something bad enough, you gain confidence in yourself and start believing you can do it.
    A friend of mine feels helpless in so many situations, but when it comes to helping animals, she will move heaven and earth to find a solution.

    • @JunkBondTrader
      @JunkBondTrader Před 2 lety +4

      that's what I concluded. Accepting is wanting, or wanting enough to be worth it. Accepting a bad situation always involves a getting something in return, even if it doesn't feel like it when your choices are limited. You can say you accept something but you don't unless you want it, at least, enough to be worth it.

  • @AmitKumar-he3dl
    @AmitKumar-he3dl Před 7 lety +68

    This video should be shared everywhere.

    • @nadeemakhtar8195
      @nadeemakhtar8195 Před 7 lety +8

      did you share it, then?

    • @ivanbenko446
      @ivanbenko446 Před 7 lety

      Share it in your goddamm 'merica!

    • @753238
      @753238 Před 6 lety +1

      *This video can be shared everywhere, you can do it and you can also keep it in yourself

    • @theultimatereductionist7592
      @theultimatereductionist7592 Před 6 lety

      I'd share it everywhere, but I am helpless to do so.

  • @buddhabrot3
    @buddhabrot3 Před 2 lety +10

    This lifts me out of my depression atm. Thanks for your awesome content. I want to study neurosciences but I‘m in high school and this system is so bad and unfair. But maybe I can change. Thank you!

    • @lionelhasan3784
      @lionelhasan3784 Před rokem +1

      Feel like the message of the video to me personally was that there is much more in your life in your control than you believe, the school system isn’t completely “unfair” there are many ways to succeed

  • @philips3352
    @philips3352 Před 9 měsíci

    Thanks for this upload.
    I'm seeing this 8 years after it was posted yet, I'm glad I did.

  • @williambennett4360
    @williambennett4360 Před 5 lety +180

    I watched this four years ago, and the algorithm shoved it in my face again right when I needed it. hmm...