In this episode of the Danish-language podcast Den Nye Standard, we talk to Lars Tvede about the many paths life can take, and how to prepare for them. Together with Nicolai Chen, Lars has just finished his new book “Fremtidsklar”. In it, he shares his experience of learning, living and leading in an exponential world. The conversation starts from the book and gives you a reason to think about which mindset you want to live by.
Lars starts the episode by describing himself as a selective introvert who finds calm and joy in reading and reflecting. That may be part of the reason he manages to stay ahead of a world that never stops changing. One way he does it is by immersing himself in The Economist and in models and theories about human development. It’s those theories in particular that have got Lars thinking about what advice he’d give his younger self.
The right mindset leaves room for growth
In this episode, Lars takes us through what his years as an entrepreneur and financier have taught him. He wishes he’d understood earlier the difference between the mindsets a person can have. According to Lars, how far you can develop depends on the mindset you choose to have.
Lars distinguishes between a fixed mindset, where life is decided in advance, and a growth mindset, where you create your own life. According to Lars, a growth mindset means daring to make mistakes. If you want to grow and go far in life, you have to be prepared for things to go wrong.
A sharp focus on the future
Focus is crucial for Lars, both in business and in his private life. Energy, time and efficiency are scarce resources. So, according to Lars, they should be spent on what you can influence yourself, rather than on worrying about what’s beyond your reach. The point comes up again when he and Nicolai talk about the flip side. For Lars, it has been important not to let himself be affected by things he can’t influence. So during difficult periods, he has focused instead on looking after his mental health with fresh air, sunshine and exercise.
Now that “Fremtidsklar” is out, Lars’s own future is open to new challenges on every front. Lars himself hopes the future will bring intellectually stimulating work with inspiring people who can give him good energy along the way.