Telegram CEO says taking 'action first' helps beat depression

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov is going viral again, but this time it’s not about privacy, bans, or tech battles. Clips from his Lex Fridman podcast interview are being widely shared for a different reason, his blunt take on depression and mental health.

Durov’s core belief is simple and uncomfortable for many, you don’t wait to feel motivated; you act first. In a time when burnout and low mood are common, especially in tech and startup culture, his approach is cutting through online noise.

Durov, now 41, says he rarely experiences depression and credits that to one habit.

“I normally never have depression. I don't remember having depression in the last 20 years at least,” he says in the interview.

His reason is not therapy talk or long breaks. It’s action.

“I start doing things. I identify a problem, I can see a solution and I start executing the strategy.”

For Durov, worrying without movement is a dead end.

“If you are stuck in this loop of being worried about something, nothing is ever going to change.”

This mindset has helped him navigate arrests, government pressure, platform bans, and global criticism while continuing to build Telegram.

WHY REST ALONE DOESN’T FIX LOW MOODS

Durov challenges a popular idea around mental health: that rest automatically restores energy.

“People often make this mistake thinking, ‘Oh, I should have some rest and then regain energy.’ This is not how it works. You gain energy by doing



something.”

His point is clear. Action creates momentum. Momentum creates motivation.

“You just start doing something. Then it happens, you feel motivated and inspired.”

Over time, small actions stack up.

“And in a few years, who knows, you end up achieving great things.”

THE GYM EXAMPLE THAT MAKES IT CLEAR

To explain his thinking, Durov uses a familiar situation.

“Going to the gym is a good example. There are many days when you do not want to start working out, but then you overcome this initial reluctance and then you enjoy it.”

The idea applies beyond fitness. Whether it’s work, health, or personal goals, starting is often the hardest part. But once movement begins, resistance drops.

WHY THIS MESSAGE IS RESONATING IN INDIA

In urban India, where long hours, pressure to perform, and rising mental health concerns go hand in hand, Durov’s message feels relatable.

Depression often feeds on delay and overthinking. Durov’s approach focuses on purpose-driven action, not endless reflection.

His personal discipline, sports, fasting, and mental control, supports this mindset. But at its core, the idea remains simple, do something today, even if it’s small.

Pavel Durov’s life offers a clear takeaway. You don’t wait for motivation to change your life. You move first. Motivation follows.

Whether you’re building a startup, facing work stress, or struggling through a heavy day, action may be the quiet reset button many people overlook.