In Episode #2 of Striver’s Compass, I explore the evolutionary, physiological, and psychological roots of human striving through both scientific and philosophical lenses.

From the dopamine-driven reward circuits that make pursuit itself feel good, to our ancient instincts for status and belonging, to the Stoic idea of areté — excellence as the fullest expression of our potential — we’ll uncover why striving isn’t a flaw to fix, but a force to understand, embrace, and direct.

Because when we learn to work with our striving nature — and channel it with intention toward getting better every day — striving becomes less about proving our worth and more about living in alignment with our design.

In the first episode of Striver’s Compass, we explore why so many high-achievers find success yet still feel unfulfilled — and how shifting from extrinsic to meaningful, values-aligned goals can change everything.

Drawing from Viktor Frankl, Stoic philosophy, and modern psychology, Derek Pilling shares how to harmonize your striving nature with a deeper sense of meaning — so achievement becomes a source of flourishing, not fatigue.

Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://youtu.be/o41A1mxGGRM