I bought 120 acres in Southern Oregon to have peace and quiet. My partner and I both prefer this over where we lived before. Absolute quiet from human noise is wonderful. I hear the wind, the leaves rustling on the trees and insects and the birds. I dislike going to town, it is so noisy, smelly and fast. My purpose here is too take care of this land the best I can. Enjoy the seasons and the food we grow, and leave this life with a calm soul. 😊
Living in solitude for three years now. I have had immense self growth. Spiritual, emotional and physically. This was an excellent watch. Thank you in so many ways.
so is this the life lesson bestowed upon us by the myth of Sysyphus? That we find freedom in committing to pushing our chosen "rock"? ...the same way Mark Manson tells us to pick our flavor of "shit sandwich" to eat, because there is no escaping the purposelessness of nihilism?
@@binauralfortuneCamus said one can choose any meaning so to push the rock accordingly, yet it remains an illusion we choose as in absolute there is no meaning to be really found.
This video is making his channel starting to feel like a super underrated television series on those educational channels. It’s beautiful and kinda nostalgic for me.
Several years ago, a guest on a popular podcast said, "if you can master solitude, you 'll be a superhero." The subject of this video proves the point.
Did you think about... A blown appendix, a toothache, snake bites, getting buries in those mines alive, getting an infection and then you have to amputate with no anesthetic... in the middle of nowhere. Because if you haven't thought of these, you haven't thought about it deep enough ;) Jokes set aside... Some people are drawn to these extremes, yet neglecting to ponder deep enough about their privileged lifestyle and having the gratitude for it >>> A soft bed, warm showers, food on the table, roof over your head, family friends and pets. If you can't find meaning and purpose that's right in front of you... you won't find in it in the middle of nowhere. Let's just call a spade, a spade... This is not soul searching, finding meaning nor purpose. This is merely simply getting away from all the insanity.
Im a lady thats going to be 35 in january. Getting here is fun. Surviving a traumatic brain injury is fun. It made me appreciate life, being alone and figuring out that yep. No man really is an island. I have become friends with myself. Its great. You both are awesome. Thanks for sharing Mr. Manson 😘
This video is worth rewatching. I guess my purpose in life does'nt have to be a grand, big, life-size exaggerated purpose that means everything to everyone. It just need to be simply meaningful to me.
I spent most of my adult life with a partner. A wife who I had two kids with. In 2021 I went through my second toxic divorce and decided to give up on meeting somebody that I felt like I belonged with. I've since been alone for almost 4 years and its been the most eye opening experience I've ever had. I now see how my relationships have sucked the life and ability out of me. If I had a partner who knew how to support it might have been different but I didn't. My brain has turned on in ways that I can't even put in to words. My goals these next 20 years are now with purpose. Just me and my dog. I highly suggest spending time alone, as much as you can.
I agree, 100%… thats exactly what I have done for four years also. Best decision I ever made. Not everyone needs, to be with someone in order to not be alone. It’s quite the contrary. I have felt more self aware than I ever thought possible. 😀
I did it for 10. It becomes very difficult to be inauthentic when alone. There came the realization that much of what I did and thought and therefore felt was predicated on how I thought I was received by others. When I quit reflexively judging myself as lacking, I found no cause to do so with others and quit assuming (or caring) that others were judging me. I also found peace and forgiveness in acknowledging that generational survival trauma is often imbedded in a family culture of perfectionism. My walls turned to boundaries that are flexible and grounded in self trust. Love became service rather than a means of external validation of my right to exist as I am. Being fully present is the greatest gift I bring to the world...that and not giving any fucks how my presence is received. Freedom is found in an inherent sense of response-ability that permeates all motives, all words, all actions.
The Sisyphus tie in hits, so true…most of us spend our lives doing things that probably won’t matter after we’re gone. It’s liberating to understand this
Me too. 70 yr old Aussie here. I watched and celebrated his every achievement. And my heart Broke when he hotel burnt down. His grief was So raw and palpable He has attracted many many wonderful people to help with the larger projects. ❤
You’re never truly in solitude if you’re at peace with your heart. I believe as humans, we’re meant to connect - to be part of a community and to grow together. But it’s not just about being around people, it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people, the ones who elevate you, challenge you, and support your journey. It’s that kind of energy that makes all the difference. I really admire his purpose and unwavering dedication. It’s inspiring to see someone so aligned with their mission. Truly a fantastic video - it’s a reminder of how important it is to stay true to our path.
I needed this video so much. I just bought a bus because I can never get enough space. I truly love my solitude. What Brett is doing sounds like heaven.
This man is not insane but found his purpose and absorbing knowledge and doing things he like. Unlike most of us who are still caught in procrastination
Boredom is good. Sitting in it will guide you to new fun things. It's just up to you to project your enjoyment into the experience, not expect the joy to come from an outside novelty feed like with youtube. Imagination does kinda feel like it comes from outside me sometimes, but I trust it much more than the corps behind the algorithms. Birdwatching and breeze-feeling are both nice ways to pass the time with light stimulation.
More unhelpful generalisations. 'Boredom' is very different to different people and the good outcomes you hear about are skewed by 'survivor bias'. There have always been folks who thrive better in social interconnectedness. If it works for you, great
@@cassieoz1702 Allowing boredom doesn't negate the value of social interaction. I'm not suggesting only sitting in boredom, that's silly, a full life has many aspects. I'm just saying we have that emotion for a reason, it brings new value into our lives. It's kinda funny because you're proving my point, you're not willing to feel boredom. Got a nice tidy excuse all ready, "I'm just a social person who requires constant stimulation so it's fine for me to do so, neuroscience doesn't apply to me." Your denial kung fu is highly technical, impressive.
@@cassieoz1702 My initial comment was based on neuroscientist Anna Lembke. Boredom is one of the healthy sources of discomfort that retune our brain to being more capable of feeling pleasure and motivation. Individual differences still apply, it's a generalization. The exact healthy sources of discomfort that will be best for a person depends on the overstimulations they pursue and other nuances. Being a highly social person just means that boredom will be even more valuable for you because it will create more discomfort. If someone is super fine being alone and still then there wouldn't be much point in choosing that for them. Best thing for them could be a challenging fun social situation. If someone is soft from living inside climate control boxes all their life, then cold exposure will be very powerful. It all depends, but the general idea remains, we must allow discomfort into our lives to be well.
@HoboGardenerBen yes, i absolutely that we are training folks (more in customer cultures than others) in avoidance coping methods, socially/emotionally and physically. My hesitation is the growing tendency for absolutism/polarisation and seeing the principle slide into "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger". In the example of pushing introverts into more social situations, my experience is that they may become less avoidance but don't become more comfortable, just better at masking and come away even more drained.
For some reason, I felt such a warm and wonderful feeling after I watched the whole video. I have my problems and struggles in life, which sometimes I can't overcome simply by making myself do something about it or tricking my mind into doing it, but this documentary gave sort of a breath of fresh air, which now I know that I needed in my life. Thank you very much.
Brent and Cerro Gordo really brought a sense of peace and optimism during that year of 2020. It was my oldest son’s last year of high school. We were all stuck together and as the adults in the house, had to act as if we knew everything would be ok not really knowing it spills me. Brent and his adventures where something me and my family looked forward to every week. Thanks for shining some light on a positive corner of our existence.
Loneliness is by far the worst addiction that Im having to constantly be combating. I hate sharing my environments even with family. I’ve gotten to the point where I’m extremely comfortable being lonely and have become very unsociable
@@krusher74I think it can be both. You really like that you don't have to make any compromises but you also wish their would be someone to share it with.
As I get older the more I crave solitude, Iv isolated myself intentionally from all the unnecessary burdens we are often so unconsciously involved in. Iv learnt to set peace of mind as my highest goal and organise my life around it. My dream is to one day escape the city where I live though it’s beautiful with a good balance of nature and cosmopolitan environments I long to travel and discover vast landscapes. Bathe in waterfalls, make camp fires, camp in forests, learn new ways to survive, paint on a mountain.To Get comfortable being uncomfortable because any comfort zone is a beautiful place but nothing ever grows there. 🥰
I have found the boulder I love pushing. But I didn't start really pushing it until I accepted it was just a boulder. I love writing since elementary school. But fear of failure prevented me from writing often. Fear of writing something forgettable. A book that would disappear. However, once I focused on just doing it, for fun, I'm happier. I get cranky the days I don't get to write. I wasted twenty years afraid of my work being pointless. I was so lost. 😢
This for me is THE BEST message you’ve put together so far!! 🎉🎉 Thank you for sharing! It’s almost ironic that you’ve done so much great work which has been impactful. But I feel all that lead you to this. To share this powerful message. Even it’s just for me… 😊 Similar to how Schmidt’s tunnel lead you both to the ghost town. I imagine being able to talk with old Schmidt and show him this video. How would he react knowing his suffering gave us this today. The same way your sacrifices gave us this. Thanks everyone involved! ❤
I get bored staring at my various screens throughout the day. It's only when I go for a walk and engage with nature that I feel mentally stimulated. I'd think if you're living off the land, there's always going to be a task that needs doing which keeps you busy! I think Brent's knowledge of the mining town is useful in 2024, especially if there are guided tours for visitors. It's like a living museum!
I admire this young man. After Covid, I have continued to isolate. A few texts a week, once or twice a visit with friends, or a gathering of friends. Very few phone conversations. I've thought of just buying a car and following the road to wherever it may lead me. Unlike this young man, I'm a woman in my sixties and I worry about the dangers that a solo woman traveler may encounter. I'm on the brink of taking a leap of faith, Praying On it.
I'm a woman in her late 60's and have been looking for something like this too. We ought to start a group so we can know each other and meet people we have things in common with. No kidding!
I always feel better after watching your videos. Been pushing my boulder for 10 years now, and this story makes me appreciate my own journey so much more.
This was outstanding. Both exhilarating yet scary, the idea of confronting one's fears of isolation and loneliness to undertake a Sisyphean task speaks to our inner quest for transcendence. Mark opens up difficult questions of what this story means for each of us to confront and undertake our own challenges to find meaning in what could very well be a meaningless universe. Beautifully shot and narrated it also captures the intense beauty of the California desert and mountain wilderness. Breathtaking!
To be honest I’m astounded by all the comments praising this video. This man is not weird and shame on you for saying so. You didn’t tell even 1% of his story. He’s done so many amazing things there and you’re making fun of him mostly. If you’re bored there it says a lot about you Mark. You could take a massive literal leaf out of Brents book instead of sitting in your New York office writing about how to live ✌🏻
I didn't get the feeling that the video was disrespectful or anything. I suspect you just took issue with a few chosen words here and there. The videographer has to insert a few "audience facing" perspective points. Otherwise videos like this would be little more than cult proclamations.
I never heard of Brent Underwood before but I went and looked him up after I watched this interview and I agree with these commenters here who say you did not do him justice at all. This guy is a jack out of the box - he is brilliant. He is all-rounded and curious and knows how to do A LOT of things. You didn't mention anything about the silver mine that he minded there and made into silver coins. I mean R-E-A-L-L-Y, you missed that out of interviewing this man? The gist of the interview seemed to be you wanted to make him look weird. I cannot believe you left so much out. It actually says a lot about you.
14:45. That is where i am in life. I am in my 30s and i am done with western society. I sold my house in Ontario and am moving my family to Paraguay. I am going to live a simple life making good friends, eating good food, and spend time with my family. Ill live off the house money till i figure it out. Time for adventure!
I would not be going to Paraguay. A kind of functionless country that specializes in selling cheap cigs and perfume at the border. I guess you have your reasons for going there. Uruguay is more interesting but I dont get why they would be accepting folk. Its a more organized country but of course more expensive
I spent christmas fruit picking, same feeling, loneliest I've ever been. Being lonely was a hard feeling, I didn't find it addictive at all, but not having to be live by others rules is nice.
Thanks for sharing this! Best of luck to him. I hope he has something in place where if he should have a mishap out there someone knows ASAP and will help him and/or take care of his animals. They would be completely helpless and suffer.
Mark, your videos are top tier. Storytelling, editing, all of it. I always feel like I watched "Something special", you are the only channel I get this from. I might have to blame you for my RUclips addiction (I know, I know, my responsability). Till the next one!
Idk if you'll ever see this comment Mark, but I wanted to tell you that you really are a wonderful storyteller. I first noticed this with your book. You know the one I'm talking about 😂 Your story explaining the difference between fault and responsibility lives in my head rent-free. I also loved the stories about the Buddha (I already knew it because I'm Indian and we are taught about Him from a very young age, but still loved the refresher), the Japanese general whose suffering was ultimately "purposeless", and the journalist with the false memories. I also appreciated your no-holds-barred honesty and willingness to show yourself in an unflattering light. Keep writing. You have a captive audience.
Very inspirational to see a man actually did what we fear, give himself over to a purpose he created and now thrives while we sit in our comfortable homes disintegrating from within! I would be blessed to hear back from you sir and possibly come out and visit and help; you might need to keep out of those deep mines, I hate to think of what could happen to you if something went wrong and you were trapped down there; do you have somebody from the world come in and check on you periodically?
I can relate. Have been alone in Sweden in an old house I bought and renovated. Just sitting there in my own little world, away from society. I'm back again, but I dont feel I fit in. Might go back and find a place again, and turn into a full time weirdo - hopefully with peace :)
I hit $113k today. Thank you for all the knowledge and nuggets you had thrown my way over the last months. Started last month 2024. Financial education is indeed required for more than 70% of the society in the country as very few are literate on the subject.
It's essential for you to have a mentor to keep you accountable. Myself, I'm guided by Evelyn Vera. for years and highly recommend her I focus on her. To be honest, I almost didn't buy the idea of letting someone handle growing my finance, but so glad I did.
What a gift I have stumbled upon. The Hotel was stunning and Brent's grief pierced my heart. And thank you for the piece on surrendering. I will carry this with me.
Kudos to the illustrator/animator and entire team for the beautifully crafted and edited video. Mark sloughing off his podcast to a separate channel in order for pieces like these to stand on their own makes all the sense in the world to me now as a viewer. Top-notch video magazine reporting. Very interesting stories so far! Keep up the great work 👍
Mark, you're literally getting us to have real life experiences in no place than our couch! From your stories in your books, and now stories from others. The lessons therein are way good for us who haven't had the chance to go through that yet, or our close buddies, but the impact is deeper than you can imagine, well, for me!
"We are all rolling our proverbial boulders up meaningless hills. All human action is ultimately empty in the face of an indifferent universe. There is no predetermined point to existence...only what we make of it." I believe everybody needs to hear this to be courage enough to find what they love and feel great about and just do it. I genuinely recommend the book of Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck to anyone who has not yet read it. It's totally amazing. Good luck to you, everybody! And Thanks Mark Manson for your life-changing videos and awesome book.
this hit deeper than I initially thought it would after watching through the video. I was doing chores while listening an just decided to listen and then it hit me. Me taking care of my house and family is my boulder to bear.
Well said! I was thinking, too, of the quotidian/mundane aspect of most of my days. In my youth, I wanted to shine brighter than everyone and write the great American novel. Now, in my 50's, I'm happy working as a part-time college instructor, swimming, cooking for my family, and walking my dog. I love the concept of the freedom of commitment.
With today's communication, FaceTime, RUclips, and Cell phone. It's not total solitude. That being said, I would never do it. A touch and a smile is wonderful.
This is great. I’ve been isolated for like 50 years. Super interesting , I see the nuro divergant glow now. If thats what people call it. I call it enjoying my life
Didn't expect this video to be a little dip into existentialism 😅. I love it. Really encourages me to give myself fully to what I want to do in life. As someone who's almost 20 I appreciate this very much. ❤
well, I certainly didnt take on such an extravagant project, but I have been full time wilderness camping for 8 years. I have learned to survive self sufficiently, and generate my own power. and Im never rejoining society.
I did myself took the leap of faith at the age of 60… I’m now 66 and I’m glad I’ve done it as it made me grow exponentially in a spiritual sense. One of my accomplishments I feel really good about ☺️👍
I have. I love what I’m doing, and I did have to come to the point of not choosing anything else. Thank you for interviewing this guy. Very encouraging to me and my Boulder Pushing.
In case anybody is wondering, burrow Schmidt also used alot of dynamite to create the tunnel..And on a few occasions he was trapped by fallen rock and injured. He removed all the rock with just a wheelbarrow
Dear Mark, your videos have always been a source of strength and guidance for me. I am 40, living a family life with my wife and son. Your 2nd book, on hope, has been a life line through my trying times, and i consider it no less than a religious book when imbibed rightly. This video, though captivating with its stunning visuals, didn't ring any bells within me. Just my point of view, but thought i should write this here. People like me, living the life of a 'grihastha' or family man, finds it disturbing to leave the present life and seek solitude as a solution to inner peace. We need to find the way in this life, solve day to day problems, interact with the humans around us seeking and spreading joy every moment. It is a fight for me every day- inner turmoils, differences with family, issues at work, but I need to push forward. For the sake of pushing forward itself, as you concluded in the book (or as i understand it) . And for seeking budha? "The Buddha, the Godhead, resides quite as comfortably in the circuits of a digital computer or the gears of a cycle transmission as he does at the top of the mountain, or in the petals of a flower. To think otherwise is to demean the Buddha - which is to demean oneself. Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance Love and respect, always your fan, and student.. ❤
It is a constant struggle dealing with people. I think it is because we are all so programmed. Many remain in the program and protect the program. The program shuns anything new and seeks comfort and certainty above all. So everyone around us is like this and unaware of it and those of us who are aware of it, have to act as though we are playing charades.
My eyes watered watching this, maybe I have the same wish , in my heart to be away from the people and all the chaos in city , thanks for the video Mark
Loved the video, made me think a lot. I have such an anxiety and fear of commitment to a greater journey because of painful moments and losses before. Really liked it
Im not in a ghost town but bought some land in the country and live in a tiny home. Alone. Never been happier with my pets. I found a way to work from home. Before that I had to force myself getting outside in the city, meeting colleagues… I was lonely and crowded. Now I’m alone and fulfilled.
I find it soothing and very inspiring. You read news and trends. Tomorrow, it's irrelevant. Building something there, you know it will still be there years to come. Even if it's just a row of rocks. Got his land, and ride the dirtbike around. He has his land for the rest of his life, beautiful.
@@sipzc-djthat tells me you're escaping. I believe the key to living a life in this way and to experience peace and bliss is to be in full surrender...which means to be in love, with an open heart and not in fear of anything; not in fear of the matrix...death or anything in between.
@@bbutterfly36 I'm from London, I've seen it all before. Spain is like London in the 80s to me but with WiFi but they are catching up fast & going through gentrification at the moment. I replaced people with animals & I have never felt better. People = problems unfortunately
I also had this question recently in my mind, "What is the one thing which I would do for the rest of my life no matter how I feel or who is there and only for the satisfaction of myself?" This video resonates a lot with my recent thoughts.
I am a philosopher, and been wondering about the sort of videos to make especially outdoorsy and philosophical. I am inspired. This is so creative and you are doing well, thanks a lot. Eureka!
For those raised in chaos, peace can be mistaken as boredom. But, historically, for many such as those ventuing West in the 1800s, the experience of trying to survive on your own without the support of community, drove them mad and to tragic ends.
Great stuff,, BUT would have been really nice if you had included a bit of information that helps us understand how He was able to start this journey. I'd like to know what he used to do for a living? How did he find this this town in the first place? How did someone so young have a "life savings" that could not only purchase this town but continue to maintain and further improve the town (just that heavy machinery he was using costs thousands a day usually to rent). How does he get electric, phone and other services which he eluded to having? You started the whole video by saying that most men dream of doing something like this... yet provided no background on how this man was able to accomplish it. With that said, it was still very cool and interesting. Just keep it in mind for future videos.
a strong mind is a must. although I believe I would love the solitude, I have too much of an overactive imaginatinon to live in a 'ghost town' by myself. I'd be seeing, hearing, and feeling more than necessary. I think it could be a spiritual sabbatical, but I think its like folks who take ayauasca, you better get your mind right before you jump into it.
I cannot comprehend not having solitude. It is the quiet space where I think of how to solve complex things…like bringing better food to Mississippi via our farmers.
As someone who has gradually become isolated from everyone I once felt connected to and have been living my waking hours in solitude. It has its benefits but the loneliness gets worse the further into the abyss you go, I constantly think of how the time is ticking and how important human connection is and how much colour it gives to life (if it’s healthy connection). Too much solitude deteriorates the brain and affects social skills which are extremely important no matter how introverted you are. I used to enjoy the peace of being alone with myself, I am comfortable with myself. But when that loneliness kicks and it does … oh man
There is no way of knowing what will matter 100 years from now but I think it's the Brents that will matter far more than whatever happens on social media.
I watched his channel a lot during the first few yrs. I'll have to go catch up, thanks Mark! I have been more or less 'collecting' videos, blogs and documentaries on hermits and fringe loners of sorts for decades.
If you think you want something, life will test you if you really want it. There are many who give up and look for something else but a few just stay true to it and keep going no matter what. These are your Olympians, gunuess world record holders, outstanding ppl who just mastered something ❤❤
Wow, what did I just watch? A finely crafted, exceptionally thoughtful, high quality documentary....on RUclips for free. Amazing work.
You his brother?
totally agree!!!!
I bought 120 acres in Southern Oregon to have peace and quiet. My partner and I both prefer this over where we lived before. Absolute quiet from human noise is wonderful. I hear the wind, the leaves rustling on the trees and insects and the birds. I dislike going to town, it is so noisy, smelly and fast. My purpose here is too take care of this land the best I can. Enjoy the seasons and the food we grow, and leave this life with a calm soul. 😊
@@novampires223 how my childhood was. We could hear a vehicle approaching for miles and then we’d hide under our beds!!
Love it! We don't have that kind of space where I'm from, but I can maybe dream that one day... wife permitting...
Hopefully you are on solar 😉
Love this 🙌
Would you like to sell an acre or two? Sounds like heaven honestly
Living in solitude for three years now. I have had immense self growth. Spiritual, emotional and physically. This was an excellent watch. Thank you in so many ways.
“The freedom of commitment” is such a paradoxically liberating idea that I really needed to hear. Thank you Mark.
Same. Thinking about it, the relief comes from the mind being quiet since a decision has been made. It's freedom from some anxiety
so is this the life lesson bestowed upon us by the myth of Sysyphus? That we find freedom in committing to pushing our chosen "rock"? ...the same way Mark Manson tells us to pick our flavor of "shit sandwich" to eat, because there is no escaping the purposelessness of nihilism?
@@binauralfortune Not according to Camus. We make meaning by pushing that rock.
@@Evelyn-h5q That's what said, we find freedom by pushing our rock. Was Camus saying different?
@@binauralfortuneCamus said one can choose any meaning so to push the rock accordingly, yet it remains an illusion we choose as in absolute there is no meaning to be really found.
“Loneliness is a dangerous feeling because it can be addictive.”
Loved it.
Everything can be addictive, being lonely I don't see being one, be alone on the other hand yes!
Loneliness isn’t addictive but solitude definitely is.. i prefer solitude and rarely feel lonely
That struck me as well
@@brianmeen2158I came here to say exactly this
I don't think it's the lonely as much as it is being happy being alone. No one to answer to, no people pleasing. It's totally addictive.
This video is making his channel starting to feel like a super underrated television series on those educational channels. It’s beautiful and kinda nostalgic for me.
100% agreed
Right??? The intro is crazy! That cinematography
So true
The production style on this episode is very close to one of those PBS specials.
I’d love if he continued some episodes like this.
Tom scott mk2
He’s not living alone. Animals, purpose, dedication are very good company.
And it’s supposed to be haunted. Ghost Adventures has been a couple times
@@escapevelocityvideos. Ghost adventures 😲😲🤔
He is not alone at all!!! He has a popular YT channel and has very much help to build his desert town from many human beings!!!
And he's constantly shit posting on the net
And hes right hand
Thank you, both, for this.
The part that spoke to me most was "Purpose is invented".
Several years ago, a guest on a popular podcast said, "if you can master solitude, you 'll be a superhero." The subject of this video proves the point.
That guests name? John Travolta. No joke
What podcast was that?
@@knightofhope2479 i forget but a good new one is the talk tua one from the hawk tua girl check that one out
Joe Rohan podcast, some Indian dude
@@Jimmy-jm1ol did you know indian males have the smallest weiners out of all races? No joke. Look it up
This video gave me goosebumps at the ending. You really are making us think more deeply about our lives. Thanks!
Did you think about... A blown appendix, a toothache, snake bites, getting buries in those mines alive, getting an infection and then you have to amputate with no anesthetic... in the middle of nowhere.
Because if you haven't thought of these, you haven't thought about it deep enough ;)
Jokes set aside...
Some people are drawn to these extremes, yet neglecting to ponder deep enough about their privileged lifestyle and having the gratitude for it >>> A soft bed, warm showers, food on the table, roof over your head, family friends and pets. If you can't find meaning and purpose that's right in front of you... you won't find in it in the middle of nowhere.
Let's just call a spade, a spade... This is not soul searching, finding meaning nor purpose. This is merely simply getting away from all the insanity.
@@A.I.- Everyone of your words ring to me.
Im a lady thats going to be 35 in january.
Getting here is fun. Surviving a traumatic brain injury is fun.
It made me appreciate life, being alone and figuring out that yep. No man really is an island.
I have become friends with myself. Its great.
You both are awesome. Thanks for sharing Mr. Manson 😘
Yellow doesn't want you to.
This video is worth rewatching. I guess my purpose in life does'nt have to be a grand, big, life-size exaggerated purpose that means everything to everyone.
It just need to be simply meaningful to me.
I spent most of my adult life with a partner. A wife who I had two kids with. In 2021 I went through my second toxic divorce and decided to give up on meeting somebody that I felt like I belonged with. I've since been alone for almost 4 years and its been the most eye opening experience I've ever had. I now see how my relationships have sucked the life and ability out of me. If I had a partner who knew how to support it might have been different but I didn't. My brain has turned on in ways that I can't even put in to words. My goals these next 20 years are now with purpose. Just me and my dog. I highly suggest spending time alone, as much as you can.
Love and time toward your kids
I agree, 100%… thats exactly what I have done for four years also. Best decision I ever made. Not everyone needs, to be with someone in order to not be alone. It’s quite the contrary. I have felt more self aware than I ever thought possible. 😀
I did it for 10. It becomes very difficult to be inauthentic when alone. There came the realization that much of what I did and thought and therefore felt was predicated on how I thought I was received by others. When I quit reflexively judging myself as lacking, I found no cause to do so with others and quit assuming (or caring) that others were judging me. I also found peace and forgiveness in acknowledging that generational survival trauma is often imbedded in a family culture of perfectionism. My walls turned to boundaries that are flexible and grounded in self trust. Love became service rather than a means of external validation of my right to exist as I am. Being fully present is the greatest gift I bring to the world...that and not giving any fucks how my presence is received. Freedom is found in an inherent sense of response-ability that permeates all motives, all words, all actions.
The Sisyphus tie in hits, so true…most of us spend our lives doing things that probably won’t matter after we’re gone. It’s liberating to understand this
10:00 “I can’t sleep because of all the nature sounds, luckily i have my sponsored earbuds that allow me to play all kinds of nature sounds.” 💀
Mark was bored.
Those of low intellect are easily bored. Arthur Schopenhauer.
But Mark did have a lovely little choreographed laugh.
@@jim-se5xc Only boring people get bored.
If you've been out in nature or an old house, sometimes the silence and unsettling noises can be "unsettling."
@@Sadie-d4r
He was bored. Had to get back to suburbia, the bowls club and video games, where Everything's Not Fkd.
🤣🤣
I too have watched and admired Brent from the beginning..
Stirs up something in my soul..
77 years old here..
Me too. 70 yr old Aussie here. I watched and celebrated his every achievement. And my heart Broke when he hotel burnt down. His grief was So raw and palpable
He has attracted many many wonderful people to help with the larger projects. ❤
You’re never truly in solitude if you’re at peace with your heart. I believe as humans, we’re meant to connect - to be part of a community and to grow together. But it’s not just about being around people, it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people, the ones who elevate you, challenge you, and support your journey. It’s that kind of energy that makes all the difference. I really admire his purpose and unwavering dedication. It’s inspiring to see someone so aligned with their mission. Truly a fantastic video - it’s a reminder of how important it is to stay true to our path.
it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people, the ones who elevate you - sad it's so hard to find those people now :(
I needed this video so much. I just bought a bus because I can never get enough space. I truly love my solitude. What Brett is doing sounds like heaven.
its called being an introvert.
This man is not insane but found his purpose and absorbing knowledge and doing things he like. Unlike most of us who are still caught in procrastination
Many people are living alone, even in the middle of a town. He might be physically isolated, but he has visitors and volunteers constantly.
Boredom is good. Sitting in it will guide you to new fun things. It's just up to you to project your enjoyment into the experience, not expect the joy to come from an outside novelty feed like with youtube. Imagination does kinda feel like it comes from outside me sometimes, but I trust it much more than the corps behind the algorithms. Birdwatching and breeze-feeling are both nice ways to pass the time with light stimulation.
People have lost introspective and creativity (if they ever had it), the culture of modern life is not at all conducive with true self.
More unhelpful generalisations. 'Boredom' is very different to different people and the good outcomes you hear about are skewed by 'survivor bias'. There have always been folks who thrive better in social interconnectedness. If it works for you, great
@@cassieoz1702 Allowing boredom doesn't negate the value of social interaction. I'm not suggesting only sitting in boredom, that's silly, a full life has many aspects. I'm just saying we have that emotion for a reason, it brings new value into our lives.
It's kinda funny because you're proving my point, you're not willing to feel boredom. Got a nice tidy excuse all ready, "I'm just a social person who requires constant stimulation so it's fine for me to do so, neuroscience doesn't apply to me."
Your denial kung fu is highly technical, impressive.
@@cassieoz1702 My initial comment was based on neuroscientist Anna Lembke. Boredom is one of the healthy sources of discomfort that retune our brain to being more capable of feeling pleasure and motivation. Individual differences still apply, it's a generalization. The exact healthy sources of discomfort that will be best for a person depends on the overstimulations they pursue and other nuances. Being a highly social person just means that boredom will be even more valuable for you because it will create more discomfort. If someone is super fine being alone and still then there wouldn't be much point in choosing that for them. Best thing for them could be a challenging fun social situation. If someone is soft from living inside climate control boxes all their life, then cold exposure will be very powerful. It all depends, but the general idea remains, we must allow discomfort into our lives to be well.
@HoboGardenerBen yes, i absolutely that we are training folks (more in customer cultures than others) in avoidance coping methods, socially/emotionally and physically. My hesitation is the growing tendency for absolutism/polarisation and seeing the principle slide into "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger". In the example of pushing introverts into more social situations, my experience is that they may become less avoidance but don't become more comfortable, just better at masking and come away even more drained.
For some reason, I felt such a warm and wonderful feeling after I watched the whole video. I have my problems and struggles in life, which sometimes I can't overcome simply by making myself do something about it or tricking my mind into doing it, but this documentary gave sort of a breath of fresh air, which now I know that I needed in my life.
Thank you very much.
Brent and Cerro Gordo really brought a sense of peace and optimism during that year of 2020. It was my oldest son’s last year of high school. We were all stuck together and as the adults in the house, had to act as if we knew everything would be ok not really knowing it spills me. Brent and his adventures where something me and my family looked forward to every week. Thanks for shining some light on a positive corner of our existence.
Loneliness is by far the worst addiction that Im having to constantly be combating. I hate sharing my environments even with family. I’ve gotten to the point where I’m extremely comfortable being lonely and have become very unsociable
loneliness : :sadness because one has no friends or company. i don't think you are using the word right.
@@krusher74I think it can be both.
You really like that you don't have to make any compromises but you also wish their would be someone to share it with.
Am like this too
As I get older the more I crave solitude, Iv isolated myself intentionally from all the unnecessary burdens we are often so unconsciously involved in. Iv learnt to set peace of mind as my highest goal and organise my life around it. My dream is to one day escape the city where I live though it’s beautiful with a good balance of nature and cosmopolitan environments I long to travel and discover vast landscapes. Bathe in waterfalls, make camp fires, camp in forests, learn new ways to survive, paint on a mountain.To Get comfortable being uncomfortable because any comfort zone is a beautiful place but nothing ever grows there. 🥰
Why dream of one day when you can start small and just go camping!
I have found the boulder I love pushing. But I didn't start really pushing it until I accepted it was just a boulder. I love writing since elementary school. But fear of failure prevented me from writing often. Fear of writing something forgettable. A book that would disappear. However, once I focused on just doing it, for fun, I'm happier. I get cranky the days I don't get to write. I wasted twenty years afraid of my work being pointless. I was so lost. 😢
"I didn't start really pushing it until I accepted it was just a boulder". That's an important and freeing realization!
For someone who likes to do art, there is no boredom. If i had a laptop/notebooks to write in and art supplies id be just fine
It’s my dream to retire outside the US living a minimalistic life and pursuing art, writing and video games.
Brent’s YT channel, Ghost Town Living, is a must watch. Love it so much.
Oh! Thank you very much!
Awesome 🙂
Thank you. I was hoping that Brent had a channel ❤
This for me is THE BEST message you’ve put together so far!! 🎉🎉 Thank you for sharing!
It’s almost ironic that you’ve done so much great work which has been impactful. But I feel all that lead you to this. To share this powerful message. Even it’s just for me… 😊
Similar to how Schmidt’s tunnel lead you both to the ghost town. I imagine being able to talk with old Schmidt and show him this video. How would he react knowing his suffering gave us this today. The same way your sacrifices gave us this.
Thanks everyone involved! ❤
I get bored staring at my various screens throughout the day. It's only when I go for a walk and engage with nature that I feel mentally stimulated. I'd think if you're living off the land, there's always going to be a task that needs doing which keeps you busy! I think Brent's knowledge of the mining town is useful in 2024, especially if there are guided tours for visitors. It's like a living museum!
I admire this young man. After Covid, I have continued to isolate. A few texts a week, once or twice a visit with friends, or a gathering of friends. Very few phone conversations. I've thought of just buying a car and following the road to wherever it may lead me. Unlike this young man, I'm a woman in my sixties and I worry about the dangers that a solo woman traveler may encounter. I'm on the brink of taking a leap of faith, Praying On it.
I'm a woman in her late 60's and have been looking for something like this too. We ought to start a group so we can know each other and meet people we have things in common with. No kidding!
I’ve been watching Brent’s videos for years! So cool you guys got to work together. Happy Trails to both of you. Thank you!
I always feel better after watching your videos. Been pushing my boulder for 10 years now, and this story makes me appreciate my own journey so much more.
This was outstanding. Both exhilarating yet scary, the idea of confronting one's fears of isolation and loneliness to undertake a Sisyphean task speaks to our inner quest for transcendence. Mark opens up difficult questions of what this story means for each of us to confront and undertake our own challenges to find meaning in what could very well be a meaningless universe. Beautifully shot and narrated it also captures the intense beauty of the California desert and mountain wilderness. Breathtaking!
You really didn’t do this guy justice. What a legend best of luck to him 💪
To be honest I’m astounded by all the comments praising this video. This man is not weird and shame on you for saying so. You didn’t tell even 1% of his story. He’s done so many amazing things there and you’re making fun of him mostly. If you’re bored there it says a lot about you Mark. You could take a massive literal leaf out of Brents book instead of sitting in your New York office writing about how to live ✌🏻
You got paid for this by a company that helped you not to hear the sounds of nature out there 🤦🏼
@@markt9986 I always say that boredom is a lack of imagination. I think it would take me a lot more than two minutes to explore that town.
I didn't get the feeling that the video was disrespectful or anything. I suspect you just took issue with a few chosen words here and there. The videographer has to insert a few "audience facing" perspective points. Otherwise videos like this would be little more than cult proclamations.
I never heard of Brent Underwood before but I went and looked him up after I watched this interview and I agree with these commenters here who say you did not do him justice at all. This guy is a jack out of the box - he is brilliant. He is all-rounded and curious and knows how to do A LOT of things. You didn't mention anything about the silver mine that he minded there and made into silver coins. I mean R-E-A-L-L-Y, you missed that out of interviewing this man? The gist of the interview seemed to be you wanted to make him look weird. I cannot believe you left so much out. It actually says a lot about you.
14:45. That is where i am in life. I am in my 30s and i am done with western society. I sold my house in Ontario and am moving my family to Paraguay. I am going to live a simple life making good friends, eating good food, and spend time with my family. Ill live off the house money till i figure it out. Time for adventure!
get trained in TOEFL and you can teach online from whereever in the world you want
@Augfordpdoggie I wonder if I can teach bricklaying.
@@PartyofSixPY so you’re dragging your kids to Paraguay?
@@Starfish2145 No they can use their feet.
I would not be going to Paraguay. A kind of functionless country that specializes in selling cheap cigs and perfume at the border. I guess you have your reasons for going there. Uruguay is more interesting but I dont get why they would be accepting folk. Its a more organized country but of course more expensive
I spent christmas fruit picking, same feeling, loneliest I've ever been. Being lonely was a hard feeling, I didn't find it addictive at all, but not having to be live by others rules is nice.
Thanks for sharing this! Best of luck to him. I hope he has something in place where if he should have a mishap out there someone knows ASAP and will help him and/or take care of his animals. They would be completely helpless and suffer.
Mark, your videos are top tier. Storytelling, editing, all of it. I always feel like I watched "Something special", you are the only channel I get this from.
I might have to blame you for my RUclips addiction (I know, I know, my responsability).
Till the next one!
Idk if you'll ever see this comment Mark, but I wanted to tell you that you really are a wonderful storyteller. I first noticed this with your book. You know the one I'm talking about 😂
Your story explaining the difference between fault and responsibility lives in my head rent-free. I also loved the stories about the Buddha (I already knew it because I'm Indian and we are taught about Him from a very young age, but still loved the refresher), the Japanese general whose suffering was ultimately "purposeless", and the journalist with the false memories. I also appreciated your no-holds-barred honesty and willingness to show yourself in an unflattering light.
Keep writing. You have a captive audience.
It's not about what to do but what not to do . Not doing old things is real change.
Very inspirational to see a man actually did what we fear, give himself over to a purpose he created and now thrives while we sit in our comfortable homes disintegrating from within! I would be blessed to hear back from you sir and possibly come out and visit and help; you might need to keep out of those deep mines, I hate to think of what could happen to you if something went wrong and you were trapped down there; do you have somebody from the world come in and check on you periodically?
I can relate. Have been alone in Sweden in an old house I bought and renovated. Just sitting there in my own little world, away from society. I'm back again, but I dont feel I fit in. Might go back and find a place again, and turn into a full time weirdo - hopefully with peace :)
I hit $113k today. Thank you for all the knowledge and nuggets you had thrown my way over the last months. Started last month 2024. Financial education is indeed required for more than 70% of the society in the country as very few are literate on the subject.
It's essential for you to have a mentor to keep you accountable. Myself, I'm guided by Evelyn Vera. for years and highly recommend her I focus on her. To be honest, I almost didn't buy the idea of letting someone handle growing my finance, but so glad I did.
Wow! wow! please is there any way to reach her services?
I will leave her info below this comment.
+147
5260
What a gift I have stumbled upon. The Hotel was stunning and Brent's grief pierced my heart. And thank you for the piece on surrendering. I will carry this with me.
You have to be super comfortable with yourself to live out in solitude! It’s not for everyone, but a few can find their peace.
Kudos to the illustrator/animator and entire team for the beautifully crafted and edited video. Mark sloughing off his podcast to a separate channel in order for pieces like these to stand on their own makes all the sense in the world to me now as a viewer.
Top-notch video magazine reporting.
Very interesting stories so far!
Keep up the great work 👍
Mark, you're literally getting us to have real life experiences in no place than our couch! From your stories in your books, and now stories from others. The lessons therein are way good for us who haven't had the chance to go through that yet, or our close buddies, but the impact is deeper than you can imagine, well, for me!
"We are all rolling our proverbial boulders up meaningless hills. All human action is ultimately empty in the face of an indifferent universe. There is no predetermined point to existence...only what we make of it." I believe everybody needs to hear this to be courage enough to find what they love and feel great about and just do it. I genuinely recommend the book of Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck to anyone who has not yet read it. It's totally amazing. Good luck to you, everybody! And Thanks Mark Manson for your life-changing videos and awesome book.
this hit deeper than I initially thought it would after watching through the video. I was doing chores while listening an just decided to listen and then it hit me. Me taking care of my house and family is my boulder to bear.
I envy your boulder, sir 😊
Well said! I was thinking, too, of the quotidian/mundane aspect of most of my days. In my youth, I wanted to shine brighter than everyone and write the great American novel. Now, in my 50's, I'm happy working as a part-time college instructor, swimming, cooking for my family, and walking my dog.
I love the concept of the freedom of commitment.
I loved this. Especially the end with the realisation that we all are only here for a little while and have to find out what its worth living for.
With today's communication, FaceTime, RUclips, and Cell phone. It's not total solitude. That being said, I would never do it. A touch and a smile is wonderful.
This is great. I’ve been isolated for like 50 years. Super interesting , I see the nuro divergant glow now. If thats what people call it. I call it enjoying my life
Didn't expect this video to be a little dip into existentialism 😅. I love it. Really encourages me to give myself fully to what I want to do in life. As someone who's almost 20 I appreciate this very much. ❤
This was very interesting. I can relate. I often feel lonely in the company of others, but rarely when I am by myself.
a poetic and eloquent piece; one of my all-time favorites
This is so incredible thank you Mark and thank you again for your book The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck!❤-still treasured to this day!
well, I certainly didnt take on such an extravagant project, but I have
been full time wilderness camping for 8 years. I have learned to survive self sufficiently, and
generate my own power.
and Im never rejoining society.
You're such a gifted story-teller, Mark. I loved your book. But this is another level of talent.
I did myself took the leap of faith at the age of 60… I’m now 66 and I’m glad I’ve done it as it made me grow exponentially in a spiritual sense. One of my accomplishments I feel really good about ☺️👍
I have. I love what I’m doing, and I did have to come to the point of not choosing anything else.
Thank you for interviewing this guy. Very encouraging to me and my Boulder Pushing.
In case anybody is wondering, burrow Schmidt also used alot of dynamite to create the tunnel..And on a few occasions he was trapped by fallen rock and injured. He removed all the rock with just a wheelbarrow
Very interesting. The video production quality is off the charts too. Love this.
0:50 - that's Netflix-level sound quality right there.
He seemed happy and content. I can see why he would be.
Dear Mark, your videos have always been a source of strength and guidance for me. I am 40, living a family life with my wife and son. Your 2nd book, on hope, has been a life line through my trying times, and i consider it no less than a religious book when imbibed rightly.
This video, though captivating with its stunning visuals, didn't ring any bells within me. Just my point of view, but thought i should write this here. People like me, living the life of a 'grihastha' or family man, finds it disturbing to leave the present life and seek solitude as a solution to inner peace. We need to find the way in this life, solve day to day problems, interact with the humans around us seeking and spreading joy every moment. It is a fight for me every day- inner turmoils, differences with family, issues at work, but I need to push forward. For the sake of pushing forward itself, as you concluded in the book (or as i understand it) . And for seeking budha? "The Buddha, the Godhead, resides quite as comfortably in the circuits of a digital computer or the gears of a cycle transmission as he does at the top of the mountain, or in the petals of a flower. To think otherwise is to demean the Buddha - which is to demean oneself.
Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Love and respect, always your fan, and student.. ❤
It is a constant struggle dealing with people. I think it is because we are all so programmed. Many remain in the program and protect the program. The program shuns anything new and seeks comfort and certainty above all. So everyone around us is like this and unaware of it and those of us who are aware of it, have to act as though we are playing charades.
I'm glad I heard this at this point in life. I gave up everything to commit to one thing, even if it fails horribly. But I have to try. Great video!
My eyes watered watching this, maybe I have the same wish , in my heart to be away from the people and all the chaos in city , thanks for the video Mark
Loved the video, made me think a lot. I have such an anxiety and fear of commitment to a greater journey because of painful moments and losses before. Really liked it
Im not in a ghost town but bought some land in the country and live in a tiny home. Alone. Never been happier with my pets. I found a way to work from home. Before that I had to force myself getting outside in the city, meeting colleagues… I was lonely and crowded. Now I’m alone and fulfilled.
This is the most insightful video I've watched in a while, I loved it!
do everything in life as if it was the only thing in the word that matters, while at the same time knowing that nothing matters at all
Mark this is definitely one of the best videos you’ve recently made! Good job
I find it soothing and very inspiring. You read news and trends. Tomorrow, it's irrelevant. Building something there, you know it will still be there years to come. Even if it's just a row of rocks.
Got his land, and ride the dirtbike around. He has his land for the rest of his life, beautiful.
I live a life similar to this in Portugal. Love it! but yeah, I can understand why people may find it boring but I don’t
I live in Spain and do the same. I'm quite scared of the matrix these days
@@sipzc-djthat tells me you're escaping. I believe the key to living a life in this way and to experience peace and bliss is to be in full surrender...which means to be in love, with an open heart and not in fear of anything; not in fear of the matrix...death or anything in between.
@@bbutterfly36 I'm from London, I've seen it all before. Spain is like London in the 80s to me but with WiFi but they are catching up fast & going through gentrification at the moment.
I replaced people with animals & I have never felt better. People = problems unfortunately
I love the quality of your output. Your still by far the best self help/ life coach guru out the imo
I also had this question recently in my mind, "What is the one thing which I would do for the rest of my life no matter how I feel or who is there and only for the satisfaction of myself?"
This video resonates a lot with my recent thoughts.
I can relate because I’ve been living in my car the last year and a half.
he just seems as such a wholesome beautiful soul of a man - bless
The visuals in this video is impressive. Thank you for sharing his pov, will be remembering him as the guy who lives alone in an abandoned town
I am a philosopher, and been wondering about the sort of videos to make especially outdoorsy and philosophical.
I am inspired.
This is so creative and you are doing well, thanks a lot. Eureka!
Thank you for making me pause and think. I don’t do that often enough. I should. Thanks for the reminder.
This was so meaningful and thoughtfully crafted. Thank you Mark! Brent is a truly wonderful example of a purpose-driven life. Wow…just wow!!!
For those raised in chaos, peace can be mistaken as boredom.
But, historically, for many such as those ventuing West in the 1800s, the experience of trying to survive on your own without the support of community, drove them mad and to tragic ends.
Brent is amazing and so are you! Thanks.
love how you interweave your philosophical knowledge into a state of the art documentary with beautiful pictures and illustrations
Great stuff,, BUT would have been really nice if you had included a bit of information that helps us understand how He was able to start this journey. I'd like to know what he used to do for a living? How did he find this this town in the first place? How did someone so young have a "life savings" that could not only purchase this town but continue to maintain and further improve the town (just that heavy machinery he was using costs thousands a day usually to rent). How does he get electric, phone and other services which he eluded to having? You started the whole video by saying that most men dream of doing something like this... yet provided no background on how this man was able to accomplish it.
With that said, it was still very cool and interesting. Just keep it in mind for future videos.
YoutTube Channel: 'Ghost Town Living' and it is awesome. Found it un 2021 and he explains almost every detail of how he is doing this awesome ride.
Thought the same ❤
Fascinating, and so well done Mr Manson. Good luck to Brent, I wish him well.
a strong mind is a must. although I believe I would love the solitude, I have too much of an overactive imaginatinon to live in a 'ghost town' by myself. I'd be seeing, hearing, and feeling more than necessary. I think it could be a spiritual sabbatical, but I think its like folks who take ayauasca, you better get your mind right before you jump into it.
Wow Mark this is like the original 60 minutes series. Amazingly thoughtful and professional. Keep it coming !!
Truly exemplary and exceptional work ❤
This video was amazing. One of the most helpful in a long time. There are so many takeaways. Saved. Thanks Mark 👊
Walden was Purcec's references in "Zen and the art of motorcycle..." this was fascinating hearing the most rewarding part of of his life.
I cannot comprehend not having solitude. It is the quiet space where I think of how to solve complex things…like bringing better food to Mississippi via our farmers.
bravo,we all love Brent
As someone who has gradually become isolated from everyone I once felt connected to and have been living my waking hours in solitude. It has its benefits but the loneliness gets worse the further into the abyss you go, I constantly think of how the time is ticking and how important human connection is and how much colour it gives to life (if it’s healthy connection). Too much solitude deteriorates the brain and affects social skills which are extremely important no matter how introverted you are. I used to enjoy the peace of being alone with myself, I am comfortable with myself. But when that loneliness kicks and it does … oh man
Love this documentary. Its like reading a chapter of subtle art on film.
There is no way of knowing what will matter 100 years from now but I think it's the Brents that will matter far more than whatever happens on social media.
I watched his channel a lot during the first few yrs. I'll have to go catch up, thanks Mark! I have been more or less 'collecting' videos, blogs and documentaries on hermits and fringe loners of sorts for decades.
If you think you want something, life will test you if you really want it.
There are many who give up and look for something else but a few just stay true to it and keep going no matter what.
These are your Olympians, gunuess world record holders, outstanding ppl who just mastered something ❤❤
Very inspiring and well-made, Mark. Beautiful commentary and shots. Thank you for your work, sir!