Letters of Intent | We Are Feeling Machines That Think

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We Are Feeling Machines That Think

October 29, 2025 / 33:54/E30

Short Summary

Why do so many high-achieving professionals feel unfulfilled? In this profound conversation, Pankaj and Sahil talk with Judith Gordon, a lawyer-turned-UCLA professor and mindfulness expert, about the missing ingredient in demanding careers: emotional intelligence. Judith dismantles the myth of pure logic (we are "feeling machines that think"), provides a simple tool to manage frustration called "Name It, Tame It," and reveals the single most important question to ask yourself when you feel stuck. This is a masterclass for anyone feeling burnt out, misaligned, or ready to build a more intentional life.

Takeaways

Intentionality is key. A fulfilling life and career are built by repeatedly asking, "What is my intent?"
Mindfulness and EQ are two sides of the same coin. Both are about developing self-awareness, self-regulation, and using curiosity to stay out of judgment.
You are a "feeling machine that thinks." We cannot make a decision without an emotional component. Ignoring your emotions doesn't make you more logical; it leads to worse decisions.

Soundbites

"A big piece of living a fulfilling life is intentionality."
"How do we thrive in a hyper demanding world? I think for most of us, we have this inner drive to thrive."
"Mindfulness and emotional intelligence are two sides of the same coin."

Keywords

Emotional Intelligence, Mindfulness, Law, Lawyer, Career Change, Fulfillment, Values, Burnout, Mental Health, Judith Gordon, Leadership, Self-Awareness, Intentionality, High-Performance, Self-Love

Guest Information
Judith Gordon