Overcome Suffering Like a Stoic
The Stoics believe that we suffer more in our imagination than in reality. And frankly, that tracks. I’ve caught myself replaying events over and over in my mind, creating entire arguments with people while in the shower, and even convincing myself that the more I love someone, the more I have to worry about them. […]
Use Emotions Like a Stoic
There’s something so calming about the way Stoics approach life. They manage their emotions in a way that creates simplicity and peace. That’s always been something I’ve admired, especially because, for a long time, my emotions dictated my entire day. If something didn’t go my way, I’d spiral—from disappointed to upset to devastated. Hours would […]
Let Go Like a Stoic
When life feels chaotic, sometimes my first instinct is to grip harder. I try to handle everything and everyone, convinced that if I don’t, things will fall apart. But instead of fixing the situation, I end up feeling drained and overwhelmed. My sense of humor fades, I lose my flexibility, and I can’t focus on […]
Direct Your Mind
Why do I keep learning how my mind works? Why do I keep practicing mindfulness exercises? What is all this effort actually doing? The more I learn about the mind, the more I see it as a tool. And like any tool, it needs to be kept clean, organized, and sharp. Here’s how I think […]
Learning to Manage Setbacks
A couple of days ago, I had an appointment to remove the cast I’ve been wearing on my hand and arm for six weeks. I’ve been counting down the days for this thing to come off. With the cast on, I can’t wash my own hair, I can’t bike (something I usually do every day), […]
Take What You Need
This morning, I discovered someone new to me. He’s well-known for his activism and thoughts about how humans think and operate. Today was my first time hearing his words. Listening to his interviews and teachings felt inspiring. His words spoke to me, and my morning slowed down in a way that was really lovely. But […]
Managing the To-Do List
Today, like you, I have a list of things I need to do. I have to get out of bed. I have to get dressed. I have to feed myself. I have to exercise. The list goes on. We all know that feeling. And as the list builds, so can feelings of dread. The more […]
Dealing with Disruption
I’ve developed a few routines for my day to help things go smoother—including some physical and mental exercises like planking, yoga, writing. I’ve done these long enough that I don’t need to think about it; I just move from one habit to the next. That’s what I love about repetition. But what happens when that […]
Why Feelings Matter
How are you? How are you doing? What are you feeling? These questions are everywhere, but they’ve mostly turned into polite greetings. We often respond with a quick, “Fine,” “Can’t complain,” or “Not bad.” But what if we paused and asked ourselves, “What am I really feeling right now?” A lot of us might feel […]
Living with Pain
I’m in a lot of pain from my accident. Of course, I don’t want to be, but just wishing it away isn’t exactly a plan. When my body hurts, it doesn’t just stop there—my mind gets involved, trying every trick it knows to get rid of it. And if I deny the pain, it’s like […]
