Psychology

Are You Stuck on the “Second Mountain”?

Finding meaning, A book by David Brooks

Photo by Collin Hardy on Unsplash

So you’ve got the job, kids, family, house, Lambo, whatever you dreamed of 5–10 years ago.

Now what?

You are on the “Second Mountain.”

David Brook's book, “The Second Mountain” focuses on those who reached an apex but are looking for more. Some of us eventually reach our baseline goals in terms of career and life but are still itching for growth, especially spiritually. Spiritual doesn't mean God, it means more meaning. You can't buy more meaning, you need to create it.

Meaning

Something tends to happen to people, especially men around their 30s-40s. It’s not a middle-aged crisis, it’s not “Empty Nest” syndrome. It’s earlier.

They have a job that pays well and affords them the standard of life they are happy with. They travel. They eat well. But something is still missing.

For most of these people, a side-hustle is not always the answer. They want more meaning, but it cannot be bought. They want something that can provide value to themselves, the world, their community outside of their job occupation.