The High Performance Podcast

Mo Gawdat: How Losing My Son Led Me To A Formula for Happiness

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Mar 6, 2026
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ANECDOTE

Turning Loss Into A Global Mission

  • Mo Gawdat turned his son's final words into a mission to spread Ali's teachings about happiness globally.
  • After Ali said be 'everywhere and part of everyone', Mo used his Google experience to aim to make Ali's wisdom reach billions.
INSIGHT

Happiness Is A Default Mode Not A Reward

  • Happiness is a default calm contentment (serotonin) distinct from dopamine-driven pleasures that are addictive and fade.
  • Mo argues happiness is like health: it's essential for high performance and should be treated as a duty, not a reward.
ADVICE

Use The 90 Second Rule And Three Question Flowchart

  • Use the 90-second rule and a three-question flowchart to stop negative spirals: Is it true? Can I do something about it? Accept and act if not.
  • Mo times typical bounce-back for small upset to seven seconds by using this flowchart to decide action quickly.
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