The Best Way to Reset: The Bill Gates Method

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[@jessicakong4902]

I honestly feel like when I say "I need a vacation" this is what I'm referring to. Not tourism, not bustling holidays, just a moment to step back and breathe. That place looks amazing. I've always been drawn to Boreal forests since childhood. I hope to experience that almost child-like glee you seemed to be experiencing in the video. You looked you had fun!

[@nathanieldrew]

I did :) I hope you get the chance to carve out a week to try this for yourself.

[@jessicakong4902]

@@nathanieldrew Will do!

[@FearlessDreams]

I've been telling myself this for the past 2 months and the last 2 weeks I kinda forgot about "needing a break". Well, my body reminded me big time about this. I woke up yesterday with terrible back pain for no obvious reason and I believe it was my body just telling me - take a break, you fool. Jessica, I hope you get your vacation and do it a regular thing. I feel like the small little things that pile up daily are one of the reasons not only for lacking creativity and productivity in our daily lives, but also are the causes for longterm pain, health issues and so much more in the long run. We all just need to learn to take proper time off and FOCUS on what's important. Including myself.

[@jessicakong4902]

@@FearlessDreams This really hit home. Just a couple of months ago, I was experiencing intense neck and shoulder pain which led to recurring tension headaches. By the end of 2019, I realized this was a physical manifestation of my stress; I couldn't ignore it. I am definitely doing better now as I have recovered from that extreme. I realize now that it's okay (crucial, even) to take breaks. And knowing what actually taking a break means has been vital. If I ruin myself now, I will never get to experience all the other events later down the line. Life's a marathon, not a race. Such a cliche line at this point, but still important. I hope things are looking up for you. I wish you best of luck on your journey, your run.

[@FearlessDreams]

@@jessicakong4902 same here. And I am even doing the things I truly love. Seems like we need breaks even from them. :)

[@diegrow1979]

It's so paradoxical, technology has accelerated our lives but at the same time made us less productive because so distracted.

[@darrylwayne1292]

Computer accelerate people’s lives who aren’t weak enough to get imprisoned by them. Get strong and get over it.

[@astroblaster]

It's more like corporate sector Like fb, insta or any other app uses psychology and builds apps so that you're hooked on. More time you spend on it more profit they get. It's not really about the tech, it's simple about the way you're made to use it.

[@olivergilpin]

Correction - we distracted ourselves

[@lisafleury2168]

@@astroblaster Yes, the tech equivalent of a cog. :( en.m.wiktionary.org/wiki/cog

[@ilovmyselfbcilovetheuniverse]

I love you💛

[@nathanieldrew]

Here are answers to some of the questions I see a lot of you guys asking: Q: What was the food situation like? A: I bought groceries before I went which made things simple and meant I didn't have to leave the cabin. Fruit, sandwiches, soup, that kind of thing. Q: Did I get bored? A: No. I was worried about that happening but I was absolutely not bored throughout the week. Q: Did I feel unsafe? A: Nope, plus I wasn't so far removed from civilization that I couldn't find people if anything happened to me. ps. I can't believe how many Danish people watch my videos haha

[@abhijithis9424]

Will you try Wim Hof method and meditate and do light exercises in the snow?

[@emma__sews]

I'm so jealous, your cabin and area, the snow, it all looks amazing and I so understand your need to just withdraw from social media... Its mostly bs! I totally agree with your wanting to take time out to be creative. And just be... Gonna do it How would you approach this if part of a couple? As I think you need to be alone to do this...My partner would want to come too... Lol which would kind of defeat the object!

[@jasoncreedfilms]

The line "I can distract myself" is very real. Whenever I sit down to do something creative, especially writing, this "distracting myself" kicks in. So for me, music helps alot as well as a schedule.

[@affirazer]

Music is a kind of distraction as well

[@jasoncreedfilms]

@@affirazer Good point. It can be, but I listen to music that quickly becomes white noise after 5 mins. All instrumental.

[@AustenSummers]

Classical music for studying playlists are great for staying focused for me

[@ravinchandra]

@@jasoncreedfilms I do the same thing but at work or if I am working on some personal goal. It definitely becomes a white noise after a while and somehow it helps me a ton in concentrating better at the task in hand.

[@jaymeister26]

My mind wants to listen to music while I'm working (Reading, writing, ect.) but I find I can't focus as well. ASMR is a great alternative to music if you need something to listen to

[@elisangelaqueiroz916]

I think this is the happiest I ever saw you in your videos haha

[@parisjones9328]

Elisângela Queiróz AGREED!!! I thought this watching this vid as well

[@sleepsoundslovers2301]

Just googled cabin near me and booked myself a quite retreat. More of the case I want to recharge and unwind but I love the idea thanks to your video

[@FearlessDreams]

That's what I call taking action! :)

[@leafju1ce]

how did it go?

[@rasmus7400]

@@leafju1ce he's dead

[@lenaackerman2499]

@@rasmus7400 rip yohan 😞

[@MattColbo]

I'll say it again, nobody has ever looked like they smell fantastic as much as Nathaniel.

[@DemanaJaire]

Isn't he like the most æsthetically pleasing person ever?

[@MattColbo]

@@DemanaJaire the grey coat grey mock neck got me feeling alive here this Monday morning

[@wuuukie]

楽しめない人だよ。 matt davella?

[@DemanaJaire]

@@wuuukie Matt Davella is daddy, but Nathaniel is more of my type.

[@alexclifford2485]

Cedarwood and notes of grapefruit

[@Jusufreinhard]

craving some quiet nature time right now

[@himanshushukla6451]

Try saying that now😂

[@caylawakefield151]

That’s how I’m going to live when I’m an old lady, retired in some remote part of the world drowning my surroundings in Forrest’s and various forms of art. That is what paradise looks like to me.

[@phillipchavez1321]

Same [for my mom] 👌

[@daesligado]

1:18 *explains the concept of a vacation* 1:28 "This is not a vacation" Me: Hol' up

[@francesco5254]

I think he meant this: in a normal vacation you try to have new experiences, some adventures and so on… you try to make time as exciting and full as possible. On the countrary, in this shut-down-week you try to just think and do things without worrying about time flowing.

[@daesligado]

@@francesco5254 Most people I know have an understanding of a vacation, as a time period, where you can disconnect from your daily life and invest time in activities, that make you happy - for some peoole it is staying in a resort for a week, where they spend the whole day drinking cocktails, swimming in pools and reading books, for others it is exploring new places and meeting new people or doing some sport activities. But all of this basically has the same function: Spending time doing pleasant things, you usually don't do so much and developing your skills and knowledge in certain areas (e.g. painting, surfing, socializing, etc.)

[@francesco5254]

@@daesligado yes, that's the true definition of vacation. I think there could be some kind of latin influence on his language. He recently stayed 6 months in Milan, Italy. In italian "vacanza" is translated with "holiday with a lot of funny planned things to do", so he might have used "vacation" when he actually wanted to say "exciting and frenetic holiday" :)

[@daesligado]

@@francesco5254 I'm not sure about it, but I think vacation and holiday is the same thing, only that the one is British English and the other American English. I guess what he meant is a vacation, where you isolate yourself and this kind of vacation is simply less common. But the statement "This isn't a vacation" still doesn't seem correct, because essentially it is one. But yeah, it's really not so much worth the matter 😅 in Germany we would say this is 'splitting hairs' (Haarspalterei) it's just a little detail, that really isn't worth it ^^

[@daesligado]

@@francesco5254 I skipped the part with the "funny activities to do", so just forget about the last comment. Yeah, you're right. I think the same

[@easilystartled2203]

I recently started doing a thing where if my phone dies (which happens SO quickly, my phone is kind of broken and drains rapidly) instead of plugging it in, I just leave it next to me, dead, while I continue to go about my day. The amount of times I pick up and click the home button for a completely dead phone without even thinking about it is borderline shocking. And I even feel like I'm pretty good about not having it out when I'm spending time with other people. I really want to improve on it this year.

[@gsussb_]

I think this video is one of my favorites I mean, man, you look so happy and excited the whole time; it's like a lot more... truly-alive-kinda-Nathaniel, you know? Definitely an experience worth trying; it's like a week of full self-discovery and rewiring, in a way. Keep it up, Nathan ^^

[@adryjimenezholguin4333]

Jesús Alfredo Sánchez yeahh i noticed that too, one of my favorites videos, definitely.

[@GianASMR]

Next: Nathaniel Drew takes 5-MeO DMT and becomes the universe

[@robthebomb9]

He definitely is secretly into psychedelics. Not sure if he's comfortable putting that opinion on YT. Could be wrong though

[@quoththeraven5631]

@@robthebomb9 That seems more like a conjencture than a definite statement.

[@robthebomb9]

@@quoththeraven5631 Lol yeah I thought the same as I wrote it out

[@alexpredeine2093]

@@robthebomb9 well if he's not into them it's because he hasn't tried them yet. psychedelics might be like NZT to this man

[@DavidMillerVideos]

hahah give it 10 years. there will be a lot more Leos out there

[@abbiepeytonwyatt]

I’ve been thinking about this overall subject a lot. My sister and I were talking the other day and I asked her where she saw herself in 5 years if money and societal expectations didn’t exist and I answered it as well. We compared our answers and they were different (obviously) because we’re very different people, but the one thing we had in common was that we wouldn’t use our phones in the ideal world we imagined. It’s crazy because it seems so important, but when you look at the bigger picture, constantly being available to everyone else and having access to what everyone else is doing isn’t (usually) enriching your life. Still haven’t figured out how I plan to use this information, but I’m working on it. 😊

[@nadia650]

I think the same. Technology and internet are great and very useful, but people are overusing it and destroying their own privacy. I'm sad that people are so disconnected from each other in real world and there is no more letters writing and so one... Happy that someone understands :D

[@daesligado]

Technology is a tool and every tool can be bad, when misused. With smartphones and social media I see a very thin line between being an enrichment and being destructive and I see it in my own usage of them too. I think one has to overcome the "dark temptations" of technology and then it is an amazing thing. Totally baning it out of ones live isn't smart imo. At least, as long as one wants to live in and keep connected with this society. Currently I'm working on that 'overcoming of dark temptations' and I don't use almost any social media. Facebook only to see what events are in my area (a super useful feature imo). Instagram and KZbin are my last two bosses to defeat. At least my content there is already quite filtered to be at least educational and inspiring

[@olivergilpin]

Just leave your phone in a drawer for one entire day a week, Sunday works well. That’s what I do. Then if you need have a backup £50 phone which doesn’t have the association of daily life with it. Job done for the most part!

[@Norde_]

@wrldonlove shes not gonna have sex with you bro

[@abbiepeytonwyatt]

Oli Gilpin that’s a good suggestion!

[@celine_marie]

I wish "traditional" employers would make methods like this possible and a priority

[@FearlessDreams]

such an awesome idea! Things like this will only save big companies from disappearing in the future. People will move more and more towards jobs that give such kind of freedom.

[@tabba1376]

WRONG. Looking to an employer for this is ridiculous, this is YOUR responsibility to make it possible and a priority. Unless you make life choices that make this a priority, it's unreasonable to expect it to ever happen for you. Sure, it'd be nice, but it's not likely going to happen. If you're overweight, it'd be NICE for your job to put in a gym downstairs for employees, but if they don't, it's up to you to work out at a gym or at home.

[@FearlessDreams]

@@tabba1376 it's a 2 way street. I can tell you as an employee and an employer that you can make a difference and also someone can help out. I asked my boss for a month off and he was understanding enough to agree. If he wasn't, I would make it harder for me to achieve whatever I want with this month off work. At the same time, I do give the same freedom to my employees. Sometimes they need to just feel the support in order to make a step towards their well being.

[@celine_marie]

Tab Ba yeah I very much agree. It is ofcourse our individual responsibility to make sure we do what we want to do. I guess I was trying to say that I wish there was more understanding about it. Because the way I see it, most employers if you asked for something like this would think of it as vacation rather than an investment in their employees productivity. And I hope we’re working towards a world where there is more awareness around good working habits, not just keep the 9-5 culture going because «that’s what we’ve always done» if other methods are proven to work:-)

[@matthewcote5198]

@@tabba1376 i disagree with you completely. studies have shown that people are more productive in 35 hour work weeks than 40+ hour work weeks, studies have shown that vacations help employees and in turn help companies. companies arent just shutting down because of changing economics; they are shutting down because they are losing workers who understand their own value, and those are the good workers.

[@tim8241]

During your time in the cabin, you were really glowing, Nathaniel. You are such an inspiration for many!!

[@zv54]

Amongst my years of clueless, unqualified Internet browsing, I am watching and listening at 01:30am on Tuesday morning through even worse severe depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, fear, ugliness, spasms, pains, long term unemployment, lack of clarity, comparison to my peers who are thriving whilst I rot, anger, and all the bad. Why am I here? How can I fix my life? What's the best way to compensate for all the years wasted away? What is my purpose? I have many other questions but this is all I am asking for the now. Thank you very much in advance.

[@Linoosethemooss]

Cut yourself some slack, you say you wasted years of your life but compared to what? Maybe accept that it's a part of learning who you are and all. The first part of any change is to be gentle with yourself. Then you can start to taje steps towards what you want your life to be, little by little. Fast change is unsustainable.

[@Travelingmaven]

This is a wonderful experiment. I also struggle with distractions and social media and news and noise.

[@patrickgehlbach2045]

Love it. I first heard about Bill's "Think Week" is "Essentialism" by Greg McKeown. It's a wonderful idea.

[@rolts94]

Patrick Gehlbach that is the best book I’ve ever read!

[@dadifr95]

I have a cabin in the countryside of Iceland. This is something I've been doing for the past few years, disconnecting and spending time with myself to recharge as I work as a designer. I hope more people would do this and understand how it can have a huge impact on professional and personal lives.

[@ErikaK]

This is so inspiring! Sometimes we just need a break and just take the time to appreciate the present moment :)

[@cosmincimil]

You're right. We need balance and also to recharge. You feel that the most after long periods of work and hustle.

[@GagaDollxo]

I am obsessed with you and your ability to be vulnerable and allow yourself to go into such a depth of self development while touching on aesthetic! Blessings!!!

[@cass4701]

"If work always takes priority, how free are you, really?" That's something I think about a lot, especially as a college student.

[@Caleb-fu2kd]

I started watching your videos last year, I also quit a month after I started but a combination of you and a couple others turned my life so much around I’m not even close to the same person. Thank you so much, life is truly amazing

[@MysticalPolymath]

i've been given 3-4 weeks off work due to shortage of work, and am currently collecting ei... i'm just realizing that i could literally do this right now... butterflys in my stomach, should i?

[@sarasalgadox3]

Yes

[@Roman-ki9gx]

Yup

[@shreyaspeaks]

Yesss

[@irelandkirkpatrick6872]

Do it!

[@marionrobertson7819]

Fear is the only thing in anyone's way... Do it... 😆

[@AskingMatt]

This is so inspirational. I've been contemplating a retreat, vacation, but a detox from everything else is exactly what I feel like I need.

[@アメルデプ]

As I was watching this video my mom came into my room and I paused the video and she asked me who is that very nice looking man lol

[@colady3194]

I had a similar "think week" last week at my grandma's house. Due to the virus thing, we had two extra free weeks and were asked to staying at home. With no work in hand and no conversation with clients, I realized how much I miss the feeling of focusing on one thing at a time, and somehow regained my inner peace! I am glad you had a wonderful time in the woods :) I hope more people can have their own "think week". I will definitely do it again!

[@TylerOxford]

You’re so inspiring to me man, you’ve honestly changed my outlook on some huge aspects of my life and it’s like I’m going through a mindset shift in a way that’s changing my vision on my life everyday, I think it’s very important to take a break from the “normal” every now and again even if it’s only a day to just reset your mind, this has been a game changer tactic for me personally the past year to do every few weeks

[@aakashbalaji8320]

Your joy and enthusiasm from this trip is palpable! Any break from my usual routine always has me coming back twice as motivated. Vacations and self reflection are essential to our personal growth!

[@CupofGingerTia]

I smiled through this whole video, he's so adorable & i loved seeing him get all happy and excited. 😄

[@rayamarante4768]

"Being excited about Life! That's priceless - that's not something you can buy with money." Enjoyed nature, the silence, your quote above, your presence and creativity - vibes to you!

[@abbiepeytonwyatt]

“Maybe it’ll make me a billionaire, too!” 😂😂

[@oumniahoummi9753]

Your videos have been helping me for months now . I would love to know more about your childhood , the people and experiences that made you such a wise man at a young age !

[@GurtGobain]

6:00 "Wow, this is deep!" Ah, never been around snow I see.

[@keirra6327]

The enthusiasm in your voice is really enduring in this video! You can tell how happy you are here.

[@army_dreamer_8088]

Ten minutes ago I was telling my therapist about how I wished I could spend a week in a cabin in the woods to recharge... not having seen this video. Huh?!

[@dakotajordyn5541]

I live in Alaska, people normally only come in the summer, but his reaction to the snow made me so happy, I’ve gotten so used to the snow that I just go about my day when it arrived.

[@sibi40]

You are undoubtedly one of the best creators out there. Every video I get to learn lot of informations which helps me to improve myself. I have personally downloaded most of your videos to offline to re watch whenever I get time. Thanks to you for putting efforts in creating amazing contents. I really hope one day I can also give back to society like you 🙏

[@cosmincimil]

Start by creating stuff, for sure you have something to say.

[@katiemynette4285]

Heart of Kentucky. Right now, I'm watching your videos, over and over. This one in the cabin in snow and large evergreens also covered , in snow, is absolutely magnificent. Katie.

[@MarideMari82]

Are you in my head? You always make videos about stuff I’m just about to do :-) looks amazing and can’t wait to unplug in the woods for a week!

[@laragutierrez8033]

this is so nice. I've taken a step back this week too, to reset. The modern world is all about hustle and fast-paced movement but sometimes taking time to pause and assess your life is also to move forward. I feel that everyone needs this kind of not-so-typical life advice!

[@jenna2431]

“I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. I did not wish to live what was not life, living is so dear; nor did I wish to practise resignation, unless it was quite necessary. I wanted to live deep and suck out all the marrow of life, to live so sturdily and Spartan-like as to put to rout all that was not life, to cut a broad swath and shave close, to drive life into a corner, and reduce it to its lowest terms...” --Henry David Thoreau

[@JC-qf2yg]

In my many years of being on youtube I would give this channel my vote for the best content. Thanks Mr. Drew keep it up.

[@pedersenferaru]

Dane here! You pronounced “hygge” really well! But hygge is the noun hyggelig / hyggeligt would be the adjective! [Hueguelit] I love your content!

[@TruptiJagtap]

What hygge means??

[@anneworks]

Specific Danish type of cosy

[@TruptiJagtap]

@@anneworks 👍ok

[@ceciliemadsen5823]

Danish grammar is so strange, I would normally say "it is fine" (good luck figuring out when to use hyggelig vs hyggeligt). Especially since hygge is both a noun and a verb, but mostly used in a different form (bended?) when used as a noun. However, he is really interested in languages so here it comes: You can use "hygge" to describe a situation providing or is expected to provide you with hygge. However, I don't think I have ever heard someone use it to describe a building/room who wasn't using the noun form "hyggelig/hyggeligt". I did look it up in the Danish dictionary where I found an example of an object providing hygge. So technically he used it correctly, but Danes would normally ad some extra words to it, using hygge directly as a noun.

[@MisterMusic161]

I did a miniature version of this this weekend, and I felt so peaceful. I'd love to go for a whole week now.

[@tbucsclw1]

That tiny cabin looks amazing. Would love to do my own retreat there

[@willowwright8526]

I don't get why people say you're too self involved😂 when you run a channel about mental clarity with the branding of your name, it follows that it's your experience. That is exactly what I love. You are inspiring with how honest your growth looks like. It feels like every video is you externally verbalizing what you've thought through and saying, "yeah this is on my mind right now." It feels like you're welcoming and normalizing the value of reflection and contemplation. I love every moment. It really grounds me in a lot of ways. Thank you.

[@douloureux.]

William Wright who is saying that? 😂

[@willowwright8526]

Ashpyxiating can’t say who besides that Nathaniel Drew has mentioned the naysayers in another video

[@alejandrocalderond.8298]

At the begging of this year something really interesting happened. I had planned a week of vacations but the plans I had got cancelled. I decided to still take the days off and stayed at my house reviewing the previous year and planning for this one. I spent hours doing research (found this channel as part of that) and hours writing about my life. It turns out that was one of the best weeks of my life. Now everyday I come to work and I have a plan, a purpose. It is just a matter of stop... and think. / Thank you for these videos! I love your content! (Please come to Costa Rica, I’d love to be your host)

[@cosmincimil]

Writing is such a powerful tool that many people have no idea about! It helps you think more clearly and sometimes works just like meditation.

[@skylarfunkhouser128]

Nathaniel, I like how you can make a more serious video, but then keep your personality a part of it, such as the snow falling on you as you walked and the comment at the end (“just kidding, I have to come back for my phone”). You’re doing a great job with these videos. Thanks for making them and your honesty in them :)

[@ghostpro1293]

I live up here in Oregon and I have to say it’s depressing. I understand some may say that it’s the ideal place but when you live here it’s dark and grey 2/3 of the year which can put you into a seasonal depressive like state.

[@thomasennaa]

to me Nathaniel's videos are very calming and the way he speaks is soft and easy listening. he makes learning about life not seem so dull or school like. i like how he talks with truth, his videos are honest and kind spirited meaning he cares about every bit of his content from the video to the viewers.

[@matgodmode3065]

This is actually what vacations should be

[@Vita-a-stelle-e-strisce]

Hi Nathaniel Drew, nice video. I did something similar last year, I went to a cabin in Maine (Northern Outdoors resort). I needed to unwind from the commuter and 9-5 life. In the cabin there was no internet so no social media, no Fb, Instagram, KZbin. It's incredible how much time I "unlocked" on those days. I went hiking for many hours in the woods, I saw beautiful lakes, rivers, falls and then I still had a lot of time for myself which I spent reading and writing. Great experience.

[@iggynieuwenhuizen170]

Bill be trippin in the woods

[@cosmincimil]

Maybe he's a shroomer.

[@FreePerc2k]

Thats what i was thinkin probably a Pschonaut retreat resetting everything with a heroric dosage

[@Blobbybobbyboy]

"Locking himself away to think and read voraciously" - That's pretty much my life most of the time

[@justinlag3646]

Have you ever thought about doing lucid dreaming? I feel like it would be an interesting topic for you to explore. It has incredible potential for introspection and great for the imaginative - or just about anybody that doesn't suffer from psychosis. You seem very dedicated to your challenges and I think it would be something difficult to accomplish but infinitely rewarding. I think it's something worth looking into. Keep up the good work!

[@danilthorstensson8902]

I love that you’re including your sense of humor in your vids more now

[@eric33190]

*walks by a hot tub in the snowy woods* bro you didn't take advantage of that too!?

[@CaptainMorgan420]

Spent some time in Breckenridge, CO this winter and sinking into a hot tub in the falling snow was an absolute religious experience.

[@huggingpuppy2613]

@@CaptainMorgan420 sameee

[@travisambrose]

So much value in disconnecting, which really reminds me of working as a river guide on multi-day trips. If you've never experienced it, do yourself a favor and go on a multi-day white water rafting trip for a vacation at some point in your life. It is an incredible way to unplug and intimately connect with others. You won't regret it!

[@neomohr1861]

6:00 *nathaniel acts like he has never seen snow in his life before*

[@jarofjuice]

You’re such a lovely human being. Your reaction to the snow is just gold. Loving the content and the message, too. I’ve been in the process of cutting off distractions for almost a year now and I’ve had my ups and downs with it, but even in the downs it is much better than before I have started. One learns a lot about themselves when we are just quiet.

[@homersimpson4331]

I myself ask that question a lot that you asked yourself during the video, how free are we really if work is always the number one priority? Or isn’t technology just robbing our freedom in the long run? Imagine, when smartphones first came out you had the choice of buying one or not, now it’s almost something you need in order to be able to get jobs and so on ... in a few years this going to go so far, that you have really significant problems if you choose not to have a phone (payment via phone, jobs require a phone usw) Maybe with a phone that’s still okay, but what if a time comes where technology is on a level that u can implant stuff in your body to increase the data rate between your brain and information on the internet and so on? First it’s a free choice but once a few people have others need to have it as well in order to be competitive on every aspect in life .... imagine that, not being able to choose freely if you want that or not because if you do not have u can’t even have a normal conversation with someone that has it because he is constantly ahead of you because of the faster data rate his brain can process information from let’s say the internet .. I really fear, that technology is going to steal our freedom in the long run.. I think we are just in the sweet spot, I think if you’d explain our situation to people one hundred years ago they’d choose our life, but I do not think we would choose the life in one hundred years if we’d have choice .. would love to hear some thoughts if someone read this haha

[@americanwadewilson]

I think about the pros and cons of technology a lot as well. I would have to agree with you on this one. I think about growing up in the nineties and not having a cell phone weighing me down mentally and physically. Even though it was just a few decades ago, at the rate tech has and is advancing so quickly, it honestly seems like it's been much longer. Over the past few years after becoming a minimalist, I have tried minimalistic phones and even went back to a plain old flip phone for six months. My whole idea was to separate myself from the slavery of notifications, constant attention grabbing and slavery I was feeling. Felt like I was being owned by my phone instead of me owning it. I discovered a lot about me in those six months, but I also realized how society seems to NEED it on a day to day basis. One of the many reasons I wanted to dumb down on technology was to create more meaningful conversations and deeper relationships with those I come in contact with. But sadly, it only seems to work if you're with like minded individuals who are wanting the same... And it is getting harder and harder to find those (at least in my area) it seems. I still have a very minimalistic type phone because I realized I needed restrictions to be the person I wanted to be, to have more freedom and to live more in the moment. It's taught me a lot. Would love to go off like this though and spend a week off the grid and with even less. 👍 Sounds amazingly peaceful and relaxing.

[@nicholasgrazini5397]

I've thought about this too. Slavery never ended, it only rebranded. Now you willingly carry a tracking device that listens to your conversation and allows anyone to contact you st any time. We are on the fence right now between this technology becoming good or evil. Implants main purpose will be permanent slavery, the UN will push to make it free for newborns all over the world. We must make a new document that ensures that man and technology will stay seperate, that the two shall never merge, that we maintain our humanity.

[@lori9676]

Ai is taking over in a way that it is in our daily life and the technology is accelerating in a speed which we can’t reverse if AI is made and the only to handle that or at least what is happening today with Neuralink the reason why Elon Musk made that company is simply “if you can’t beat them join them”.

[@Jeca299]

People have always felt like slaves or imprisoned in some sense, whether by technology, human constraints, weather.. I think being happy breaks that mentality.

[@gregwoodin5630]

The production value on these videos and the editing really is top tier. This is the content I come to KZbin for.

[@jenthedhulster1708]

"Somewhere in the North-West Pacific" *Oregon*

[@lawrencehudson5492]

I've been randomly rewatching this video and would love to know where in the Pacific Northwest this is lol

[@explorer6]

Perfect timing to come across your video. I’m leaving tomorrow morning for a 4 day solo retreat to try to get some clarity and focus. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@DerekBearzi]

Wow this is actually very inspirational. Who would of thought Bill Gates would be in search of mental clarity as well!

[@cosmincimil]

It is! You should check that Netflix doc!

[@Slam_24]

From someone who’s never seen snow in person, I squealed with excitement along with you :)

[@alexandruulici-buyingfreed9118]

Can’t wait to give this a try. Holy smokes the environment was incredible! 🤯

[@Julien-bt7fd]

Environment? Are you mad? This is in a studio somewhere in the woods, maybe the red ones ;)

[@cosmincimil]

Holy smokes in that environment, I approve :D

[@Julien-bt7fd]

@@cosmincimil Well, it certainly would be a great advantage if you don't choose the more common relationship in those places ;) I would approve you anyway ;)

[@OlivertheJoyboy]

Your excitement regarding productivity is contagious man. So good.

[@jassneetbhatti]

I could literally feel your excitement sinking into my chair sharing that warm and fuzzy feeling with you. Incredible how humans can just connect so deeply when there isn't even any relation between them! ps. the phrase you were looking for throughout the video is "being present in the now" pps. Also I really love that you have kind of created a mini series encapsulating your self-discovery journey. It's like keeping a diary where you bare it all without fear of judgment from the world. And it takes a hell lot of guts to really put it all out for the world to see. Lots to learn from you, especially authentic expression. I really appreciate your work after trying to ignore your videos for quite some time as I tend to be extremely critical (working on that). Really grateful to you for creating this content (it's helping me a lot on my own self-discovery journey) and myself as I finally listened to my heart (I usually don't; working on that too. Maybe you could make a video about it!) and watched your videos.

[@davisboyd6644]

Favorite video of yours so far. I've been following for probably 3 months now and you have some great ideas man. Keep it up!

[@Blackthornprod]

Wonderful video Nathaniel :)! I might try this soon- sounds perfect to free oneself from distractions and get true creative work done. And man you reminded me how I used to effortlessly enter a state of flow when I was a kid- I want to reconnect with that.

[@nidhikini26]

Agree with all that you said from 6.35 - 7.35. I feel like that too. But How do we stop ourselves from doing that? 8.35 - I feel like I'm a mess of complicated emotions too. Infact, watching you say all that made me uneasy because I knew I felt the same. I keep distracting myself to avoid having that internal dialogue which might lead me to discovering something...um.. uncomfortable? 12.45 - "If work always takes priority, how free are you really? " 👏💯 14.10 - haha 😂 You're doing great work by sharing this with us so that we can learn from your experiences. 😁

[@christyanna3256]

I was learned English, knowledge with your videos. Thanks so much Nathaniel

[@kristofkovacsRisy]

Already got 100 emails from my school this year. 5-6 were useful, but I have to check all of them. I'm sure we all have similar experiences with different things and it's just ridiculous how much time we can spend with "nothing". For me your videos are motivating, thank you!

[@henrikmadsen2176]

hahahahahaha You did perfect with the Danish HYGGE 👌🙂 Greetings from Copenhagen, Denmark 🇩🇰

[@comatoast5610]

The audio and your awestruck manner made it sound as if you took a week on a snowy planet and were wearing a space helmet. Recently subscribed and gotta say you're getting to me in an inspiry way.

[@aleavril]

My Spanish ass just doesn't get how yours isn't freezing only with that jacket

[@mariapravdina2714]

Alejandra My Russian ass laughs at you both😂

[@mariapravdina2714]

Alejandra No offend. Have a nice day~

[@peakae44]

As Henry Thoreau recounted in his "Walden." he always wanted "a broad margin" to his life. He was very diligent, as a writer and with practical work, but his 2-year residence at Walden Pond can be seen as his "Bill Gates Week." He was never a hermit but this became the inspiration for one of the best books ever written - in my opinion.

[@evernightrose5152]

That come on at 0:49 .. Oh my heartt😂♥️

[@NoTanClasica]

OMG you are so inspiring. I'm violinist and sometimes I feel overwhelmed because of the pressure, the productivity, the competition and other stuff that makes me forget my passion, the reason of what I'm doing it. Your videos are extremely inspiring and makes me feel like I'm not the only one in the world Who wants to slow down and really enjoy the process of things. Keep doing this kind of content!!! We need your art! Kisses from Argentina

[@RotesDumbo]

Youre a huge inspiration to me! Btw how did you manage to get food? Did you take everything with your for 1 week? Because at the end you were just walking out with that little bag.

[@FearlessDreams]

That's a good question

[@kevinkang4427]

This is one of the most refreshing videos I've watched. It's truly amazing to vicariously experience someone's thinking week.

[@OatPancake]

I really don’t know much about myself.

[@toddscamera]

never too late

[@111.1_The_Akaskic_Records_Show]

Sit down. Try not to think for a min. When a thought pops up. Ask... WHO IS ASKING THE THOUGHT. Thats you. Your not the thought or collection of them.

[@rick0201]

Erik Merales Seriously I didnt know anything about me either then I took a gap year, took it easy, travelled some (nothing special just nearby areas) and now I know what I like, how I function and how I want to live my life basically. Just take some time for yourself ( 1 week, 1 month or even 1 year like me) and you will uncover your true self and what you want and like! 🥳

[@goodlife8060]

Because there is no such a thing as ‘you’, only the ego.

[@OatPancake]

GOOD LIFE ok

[@youssefhanna]

Nat! I could feel your excitement in this video, I love it. You've been one of my favorite creators for more than a year now and I love the direction you're heading. Keep up the good work. Much love from Cairo, Egypt!

[@hectorguevara572]

Keep doing what you’re doing man. I see you doing big things 👍

[@JonGabb]

This video just popped up on the home page at a pivotal point in my life. Thank you for making this video Nathaniel!

[@Beaut_Beau]

I love this idea so much, it's just hard once your partnered up to be like "hey babe, i'm going to the woods for a week to stay in a cabin... on my own"

[@annac9106]

I think a partner would be understating honestly, it's no different than taking a trip on your own with other friends. They would have time for themselves too. Ofc no kids otherwise yeah it would be hard.

[@hkqtt]

Beau H. Why is that hard? A partner should be understanding of that and people needing space

[@theemoryquince]

LOVE THIS VID SO MUCH!!! And a "Think Week" sounds like just what the doctor ordered!

[@zonnyink]

I love how much you genuinely appreciate the small things!

[@FearlessDreams]

It's what makes for a big life. Cliche, but super important.

[@zonnyink]

@@FearlessDreams Yeah awesome aye

[@NickPeitsch]

I've always wanted to do something like this! Now you've motivated me even further. Can't wait to do this in the future.

[@SiberianGoneInternational]

Sad to admit, but I'd truly suffer if I had to spend a week without the apps! Once I had to, because I was spending a week in a horseback riding camp in the mountains in Russia and there was no signal, but I did truly suffer! XD

[@braulindisla-elburrodelaba5361]

I love horse back riding

[@SiberianGoneInternational]

@@braulindisla-elburrodelaba5361 yeah, it was a cool experience in a way. Total wilderness, we didn't even have a proper shower or a bathroom, were sleeping in a hut in our sleeping bags, absolutely no phones for 10 days, but 5-6 hours of horseback riding in the wild mountains:) however, I must admit living without internet was a challenge for me and I was happy to get it back :)

[@braulindisla-elburrodelaba5361]

@@SiberianGoneInternational that reminds me of my childhood

[@braulindisla-elburrodelaba5361]

@@SiberianGoneInternational i love a simple life like that is just less emotional and mental stress

[@braulindisla-elburrodelaba5361]

I adapt fast with out internet even though am addicted right now

[@martianmoongdds]

Wonderful! Thank you. "I think I'm used to distracting myself. I think I'm not so used to staying focused on one task and just putting all of my concentration into one thing at a time. And I think there's something a little bit scary and uncomfortable about committing myself to just one thing for an extended period of time. I feel like I can be such a complicated mess of emotions as it is. I think there's something a little bit scary to me about going to a place by myself and not letting in other noise that can distract me from my own thoughts and what's going on in my head. It's interesting that my first reaction is that I am a little bit uncomfortable with the things I might discover if I just take the time to listen to what's going on internally and explore."

I loved this video so much! I actually did something slightly similar recently and will be taking time off really soon to recenter and this is exactly what I've been needed and putting off for so long. Also, nice painting, I think I recognise that pic haha! Hope you're well Nath!

[@ravinchandra]

Another wonderful video Nathaniel, I heard about this routine before and I wanted to try it ever since. I will do so probably in a month or two. We really are highly distracted and unable to focus on one thing at a time, even while watching this video, I opened lightroom, checked my phone and wandered off to the comments; I then paused the video, closed all other apps kept my phone away and watched it. Thank you for this video, I love the way you present things in your videos.

[@laurarotta6535]

I like the fact you're a deeper thinker. It's refreshing.

[@FearlessDreams]

He's breath of fresh air in our digital world.

[@clarafrontela8063]

Sometimes is hard to switch off from your daily routine. We get exhausted. We just only focus on doing doing, and achieving achieving, forgetting about the real things in life such as a worthwhile life. It is amazing to see how you really enjoy with yourself: you are your best friend and that's beautiful. Such a nice views. Such a great way to disconnect from busy life and plug with your SUPER YO! Te admiro y por cierto: precioso dibujo! :)

[@Danygotaworldtosee]

Just read about it in Ryan Holidays new book Stillness

[@dkthebeast92]

Awesome video. I really appreciated the fact that you used a catchy/flashy title name aka Bill Gates method, but completely went for it. It was a big commitment to take an entire week off in that cabin