The demands of the external world frequently and successfully divert our attention from the world within. It takes considerable focus and commitment to seek and explore the wonders of that hidden world.

I’m fascinated by the subject of identity — that sense of ‘this is who I am’ — and how that changes over time, whether it’s a slow process or a sudden jarring one. If you could draw a map of your identity, what might it look like?

Going for a walk with no purpose in mind other than enjoying a spot of fresh air and a change of scenery is one of life’s simple pleasures. And it’s one that is probably under-appreciated, not least by the younger generation.

Do you recognize any of these three fun-sabotaging habits from your own life? Clear away these obstacles and enjoy the benefits of good old fashioned fun.

Humans are social, relational animals. We need each other. But do we perform tasks better when we are alone? Does thinking about how other people perform them raise our anxiety levels and take our energy away? And is it possible to act just as effectively as if we were alone, even with others around?

Do you have a sense of persistent unease, causing you to compulsively check Facebook and gaze blankly into the fridge instead of doing what you really want to do? You aren’t alone, and Buddha diagnosed the problem 5,000 years ago…

Making choices and commitments is part of life: even when we think we’ve avoided making a decision, that in itself is a choice. But is ‘choosing not to make a choice’ really the best way to approach life?