We live in anxious times. It’s easy to be uncertain or perhaps negative about how our decade is starting off.

But that’s why I wanted to interview Dustin. He makes positivity feel like a talent, even though by definition it’s a choice. He allows appreciation to seem like a trait when in actuality it’s just a matter of giving something a bit more time. I know very few people who have been through the range of conflicts that Dustin has faced. The irony is, in times of conflict and uncertainty, I’m not sure if there’s a more gracious, more positive person than Dustin Harnish.

This episode is meant to explain how, and quite frankly why, he manages to stay positive. 

Now Dustin can be a bit … straightforward. His version of positivity is more honest and quirky than most. He doesn’t try to let his words impress you like he’s rehearsing for a “Ted” Talk. Dustin speaks to you like he does everyone else: the same. If there’s a difference between authenticity and positivity, I’m not sure what it is, but I hope by the end of this episode, Dustin points out the value and the power of practicing more of both. 

Dustin has been homeless. He’s been separated from the ones he loved. He’s been held at gunpoint. And today, he lives through an immense amount of anxiety not knowing what the next day will bring. 

But it hasn’t stopped him from listening to other people first. 

It hasn’t stopped him from knowing the name of every dog that goes walking in his neighborhood. 

I’ve known Dustin for maybe a decade and have only seen him wearing headphones maybe twice. Dustin is someone who works to bring the world in, not to push it away. It’s taught him the value of channeling his stress into helping others. 

To realize how looking someone in the eye can save their life. 

How despite all of the anxiety he may feel at times, particularly when he’s soaking in what the rest of the world is feeling, why he feels that it’s all going to be okay. 

These are the lessons and values Dustin has learned, and continues to learn, from his conflicts. The obstacles that have ultimately taught him what’s precious in the world he lives in.

This is Dustin Harnish’s Story of Bao.

Support the show (https://storyofbao.com/self-improvement-podcast-story-of-bao)