My advice to myself and to everyone else, particularly young people, is to turn on, tune in and drop out

My advice to myself and to everyone else, particularly young people, is to turn on, tune in and drop out

Timothy Leary, a psychologist and advocate for the use of psychedelic drugs, famously coined the phrase "turn on, tune in, drop out" in the 1960s. This mantra became a rallying cry for the counterculture movement of the era, encouraging individuals to reject societal norms and embrace a more liberated way of living. While Leary's message may have been controversial at the time, it still holds relevance today, particularly for young people navigating the complexities of modern society.

To "turn on" is to awaken to new possibilities and experiences, to open one's mind to different perspectives and ways of thinking. In a world that often values conformity and sameness, it is important for individuals, especially young people, to challenge the status quo and explore their own beliefs and values. By turning on to new ideas and experiences, individuals can expand their horizons and discover new passions and interests that may have been previously unknown to them.

"Tune in" encourages individuals to connect with their inner selves, to listen to their intuition and follow their own path. In a society that is constantly bombarding us with messages and expectations, it can be easy to lose sight of our true selves and what we really want out of life. By tuning in to our own desires and needs, we can better navigate the complexities of the world around us and make decisions that align with our authentic selves.

"drop out" encourages individuals to break free from the constraints of societal expectations and norms, to forge their own path and create a life that is true to themselves. This does not necessarily mean dropping out of school or quitting a job, but rather rejecting the idea that success and happiness are defined by external measures. By dropping out of the rat race and focusing on what truly brings us joy and fulfillment, we can live a more meaningful and authentic life.