Finding the Blueprint for longevity: Inside Bryan Johnson’s mission to cheat death

Johnson believes the future holds incredible potential for humanity with advancements in technology and science, but the only significant obstacle in the path of realising this potential is death.

His philosophy is to challenge the assumption of death as an inevitability and instead focus on extending human life as much as possible. He argues that this change in perspective can revolutionise how we approach various aspects of life and society.

He emphasises the importance of data-driven health choices and maintaining a disciplined approach to diet and exercise as a means to improve health and potentially slow down the ageing process.

Read more: 5 quotes on self-worth, mental health and manifesting confidence

Oliver Zolman, a medical doctor trained in regenerative medicine and a self-professed “professional evidence-based rejuvenation coach and clinician trainer”, is prominently featured in the documentary. Johnson follows Zolman’s structured three-level protocol aimed at optimising health and slowing the ageing process. Level one includes lifestyle modifications and level two involves implementing medical treatments and technologies that address ageing-related issues, including supplements, hormone therapies and other modalities. Level three, the most invasive and advanced level Johnson is on, focuses on experimental procedures intended to rejuvenate organs and potentially reverse ageing processes.

Through this framework, Johnson says he has managed to slow down ageing by 31 years.

Sticking to such a strict routine, one wonders if Johnson is happy going about life in this manner. To this, Johnson responds that he has never been happier, stressing that his pursuit of immortality is not out of fear of death but rather an excitement for life. For him, a commitment to self-improvement can lead to success and happiness without succumbing to the pressures of unhealthy work habits or lifestyles.

Read more: Ask the expert: How to deal with employee burnout and toxic colleagues, according to a psychiatrist

Several experts have sounded out against Johnson’s anti-ageing endeavours, questioning the efficacy and scientific grounding of his methods, on top of the fact that his sample size is limited to one. 

Johnson has also launched a line of Blueprint products aimed at supporting anti-ageing and health optimisation for sale. Among these is his premium extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)—labelled as Snake Oil—priced at US$54 per bottle. However, the olive oil has sparked controversy among experts and consumers. Some olive oil producers have criticised Johnson’s approach, arguing that while polyphenol levels are important, they are not the sole indicator of quality.

Additionally, experts have pointed out that Johnson’s EVOO does not significantly differ from other high-quality olive oils available at lower prices. 

Read more: Bordallo Pinheiro and Esporão’s Olival collection: Where art meets olive oil

Johnson offered advice to entrepreneurs on prioritising self-care to better support their teams and maximise their impact. “As an entrepreneur, you have a lot of responsibility. You make decisions that impact many people and you want to do your best for them and yourself. But you can still achieve great things while taking care of yourself.”

Sleep is crucial

First, prioritise your sleep. “Getting enough sleep every night is essential for your mental and physical health. It helps you think clearly, perform better and feel happier,” he said. That includes not compromising on the quality or quantity of your sleep for anything because it isn’t worth it. Johnson adheres to a strict sleep schedule and tracks his sleep quality using wearables.

“Going to bed at 8.30 pm every night and sleeping soundly has transformed my life. I feel happier, more balanced and better able to develop ideas.”

Read more: Pico Iyer on the importance of taking a step back and where his new ideas come from

Eliminate bad habits

Second, eliminate bad habits. “Identify the behaviours that are harming you or holding you back. Whether it’s overeating, smoking, drinking, or any other addiction, face it and change it. These habits are not only bad for your health but also your confidence and motivation,” he said. “We have lost touch with basic self-care. We can’t see straight. We are in a fight for our lives... with ourselves.”

During the Summit, he ends with a quote from French writer, poet and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupery: “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.”

Johnson believes the most important thing is to have a clear and compelling vision of where we want to go. When the team shares a common goal that is bigger than themselves, they will naturally work together to achieve it. “We all want to be part of something that matters, lasts and inspires. We all want to earn the respect of our peers. We are not so different after all. So, let’s make our algorithm align with that,” he said.

Read more articles from the Tatler Gen.T Summit here.

The Tatler Gen.T Summit is sponsored by Standard Chartered Private Bank, Mercedes-Benz Hong Kong and MTR Lab, organised in partnership with M+, Regent, Black Sheep and Cathay Pacific and supported by Brand Hong Kong, Hong Kong Tourism Board and InvestHK.

NOW READ

Hong Kongers want preventative healthcare and this insurtech company is ready

Football star Son Heung-Min dishes advice on wellness and how he maintains his mental health

How to impact a billion people, according to climate-tech startup Carbonbase’s founder