The hottest Personal Growth Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1089 implied HN points 03 Jul 25
  1. There are four desires that can lead people off track: power, wealth, pleasure, and honor. Focusing too much on any of these can harm your life.
  2. Self-reflection is important, and sometimes we need to ask ourselves what we truly value. This can lead to better understanding and happiness.
  3. Therapy can be helpful for specific issues, but doing it in a group or public setting can bring different insights and challenges. It’s about connecting deeply with our thoughts and feelings.
Rob Henderson's Newsletter 890 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. Praising kids too much can actually lead to grandiose narcissism instead of healthy self-esteem. It's better to encourage them to develop confidence in a balanced way.
  2. Many young men are not working and rely on government help. Increased screen time, especially from video games and porn, is a big part of why they're working less.
  3. Surprisingly, getting intimate with a regulated sex worker in Nevada may be safer from STIs than being with an average young woman in San Antonio.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1112 implied HN points 28 Jun 25
  1. Many young adults feel unprepared for real life and common tasks, like cooking or handling finances. It's normal to struggle with adult responsibilities.
  2. Workshops and classes focusing on adult skills, like listening and managing relationships, are becoming popular. They help people learn what they missed out on in school.
  3. People today are facing unique challenges, like fewer kids and financial stress. Sharing experiences in community settings can provide support during tough transitions.
Silentium 59 implied HN points 01 Nov 24
  1. The writer is asking for support to help cover the costs of running their work, including internet and equipment, as they prepare to move to a new location.
  2. They have experienced unexpected financial strains due to the relocation and the need for a new internet setup, among other things.
  3. The writer encourages readers to consider supporting their work through subscriptions, donations, or participating in their courses, emphasizing that even small contributions are appreciated.
Everything Is Amazing 1642 implied HN points 21 Feb 25
  1. Most people are generally good, and if they're not, it's often because they're scared. This helps us understand and forgive others better.
  2. It's important to focus on what you stand for instead of just what you oppose. This creates a positive environment for discussion and teamwork.
  3. When you feel anxious, try doing something physically active. It can help clear your mind and improve your mood.
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Silentium 659 implied HN points 26 Oct 24
  1. Being in silence can help deepen our connection to prayer. It's a good way to focus and reflect on our thoughts.
  2. Taking time for quiet moments can lead to peace and clarity in our lives. It's worth making it a regular practice.
  3. Inviting silence into our daily routine can transform how we think and feel. It allows us to slow down and appreciate the moment.
bookbear express 423 implied HN points 20 Feb 25
  1. Love can be found in imperfect partners, and it's okay for no one to meet all your needs. Relationships can look different for everyone, and being descriptive rather than judgmental can help you support your friends better.
  2. Feelings can change quickly, and it's important to give yourself grace when you're feeling vulnerable or anxious. Instead of overthinking, try acknowledging your emotions and give yourself some time to process them.
  3. Communicating directly about how someone makes you feel can help ease your anxiety. It's okay to express your needs and concerns in relationships, as everyone can feel clingy or needy sometimes.
The American Peasant 2914 implied HN points 13 Oct 24
  1. When you want to improve a skill, don't just stop at what's easy. Keep going to push your limits, like continuing to practice a sport even if you don't enjoy it.
  2. Focusing on a specific task for longer can lead to better results. Working longer on the same project can help you learn more and improve your work.
  3. Practicing in a challenging way, instead of just going through the motions, makes a difference. Trying hard things can lead to great improvements, even if it feels frustrating at times.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1159 implied HN points 22 Jun 25
  1. Living in New York and having a supportive partner has made life very fulfilling. Enjoying a successful music career is something to be grateful for.
  2. Having muscular dystrophy changed life dramatically, but it also taught important lessons about resilience and asking for help. It's a journey that forced personal growth.
  3. The wheelchair experience has made interactions with others deeper and more empathetic. It highlighted the importance of valuing what you have and understanding different perspectives.
Glenn Loury 2579 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  1. Marriage can grow and deepen over time, just like how the love shared between partners can become stronger with each passing year.
  2. It's important to cherish and appreciate your partner, recognizing the unique qualities that make them special.
  3. Commitment in a relationship means treating each other as equals and always showing love and respect.
Maybe Baby 1643 implied HN points 08 Jun 25
  1. Aging means letting go of being 'wise beyond your years' and feeling more at ease with your own growth. It's nice not to feel pressured to prove anything.
  2. Experiencing life teaches valuable lessons that can't be rushed. It’s better to learn things through real experiences rather than just trying to sound knowledgeable.
  3. Admiring younger people for their talent can be fulfilling, and it's refreshing to embrace being at a different life stage without competing against them.
Trevor Klee’s Newsletter 1343 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Marriage offers a unique legal recognition of a relationship, which is still valued despite other ways to have companionship or support.
  2. The desire to commit to a partner is strong, especially in a world where many options are closing and people often feel scattered.
  3. Getting married symbolizes a choice to focus on one person and build a life together, rather than constantly wondering about other possibilities.
Holly’s Newsletter 1428 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. Negativity bias means we often focus more on bad experiences than good ones. It's important to notice when we're doing this and try to look for the positives instead.
  2. Working on overcoming negativity bias can be tough, but it starts with accepting that we have it. Sharing good moments with others can help shift our focus to the positive.
  3. Finding supportive professionals in areas like therapy or training can make a big difference. It’s nice to meet people who understand our fears and can guide us through challenging experiences.
bookbear express 396 implied HN points 13 Feb 25
  1. Being a matchmaker can be very intense, mixing excitement with a lot of pressure. It's about connecting people and making a real difference in their lives.
  2. The process of matchmaking requires understanding people's personalities and emotions deeply. It can feel overwhelming, but these feelings can also be a strength in this work.
  3. Hosting events, like a Valentine's party, can be fun but also nerve-wracking. It's about creating opportunities for people to meet and connect, which feels rewarding and special.
Charles Eisenstein 6 implied HN points 03 Mar 25
  1. Take breaks for mental and physical health. Rest is really important to recharge and enjoy life.
  2. Many people feel torn between different political views. It's valuable to understand various perspectives without choosing sides.
  3. There's a unique gathering happening at the Omega Institute focused on a new and ancient story. It blends different financial contributions to make it accessible for everyone.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1140 implied HN points 12 Jun 25
  1. Living without a computer can lead to more free time and less distraction. It feels good to focus on real life instead of being pulled into the digital world.
  2. Using technology in moderation can be really tough because devices are made to grab your attention all the time. It's better to find ways to minimize your tech use completely.
  3. Switching to a less advanced phone helped improve one's life, but it’s still a challenge to resist using computers, especially when trying to write or stay productive.
Wondering Freely 1468 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. It's okay to waste some time in life. Taking things slow can actually help you enjoy life more than just rushing through every moment.
  2. Living life to the fullest doesn't mean doing everything on a checklist. Sometimes, just relaxing and being yourself is more fulfilling.
  3. Feeling guilty for not being constantly productive is normal, but learning to rest and take breaks is important for your happiness.
bookbear express 770 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. True friendship can feel like a marriage, taking time to develop and evolve. It's important to appreciate the journey of getting to know each other deeply over the years.
  2. Making friends is a lot like dating, with excitement and a bit of uncertainty. It takes time to figure out the friendship dynamics and sometimes requires patience to see if it grows.
  3. Friendship can be asymmetrical; one person may want more closeness than the other. It's okay to feel hurt by this, but it's also essential to recognize that not all friendships will be balanced.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1057 implied HN points 08 Jun 25
  1. Losing a partner can bring intense feelings, but it can also lead to unexpected happiness and personal growth. Many find that life after loss can be richer than they anticipated.
  2. Being in a support group for caregivers is helpful, as it offers a safe space to share experiences and emotions with others who understand.
  3. Cherishing the good memories and communicating love at the end can bring peace during difficult times and contribute to healing afterward.
Both Are True 102 implied HN points 17 Jun 25
  1. Sometimes, when reaching out, we can feel anxious if we don't get the responses we expect. It's normal to worry about how others perceive us.
  2. Sending a follow-up message can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity to express yourself honestly. You might be surprised by how good it feels.
  3. Being open about our imperfections can help reduce feelings of shame. It's better to be genuine than to strive for a perfect image.
Culture Study 1756 implied HN points 17 Jan 25
  1. Learning as an adult is important for personal growth. It helps you understand yourself and the world better.
  2. There are many ways to learn, including asking questions and engaging with others. Conversations with diverse people can offer new insights.
  3. Embracing continuous learning can lead to better relationships and a more fulfilling life. It's never too late to start learning something new.
Obvious Bicycle 854 implied HN points 04 Jun 25
  1. Starting early is important for mastery. Many successful people began their passion before they turned ten, showing that practice over time leads to excellence.
  2. Be prepared to struggle when learning something new. Everyone starts off as a beginner and it takes time and effort to become skilled.
  3. Time will pass regardless, so it's better to start working on your goals now. You'll grow and have something to show for it in the future.
Both Are True 99 implied HN points 16 Jun 25
  1. Tracking numbers can make us feel like our worth is based on data, like weight or followers. But this often leads to shame and obsession.
  2. There’s more to our value than just the metrics we obsess over. Personal experiences, feelings, and connections also matter a lot.
  3. It's important to talk about our struggles with shame and analytics because many people experience this but don’t discuss it openly.
Disaffected Newsletter 1258 implied HN points 03 Sep 24
  1. The word 'autism' has lost its meaning and can refer to many unrelated conditions or traits, making it confusing for people to understand what it really means.
  2. People can change their beliefs over time, especially about deep, personal topics, often through therapy and self-reflection.
  3. Normal, decent people might unknowingly support harmful behaviors because they assume everyone has good intentions, which makes them vulnerable to manipulation.
The Commonplace 622 implied HN points 26 May 25
  1. Writing about failure can be tough and might take away the joy of writing if not approached with the right mindset. It's important to not let the pressure to be clever ruin your passion.
  2. Failure is something everyone experiences, and it's okay to acknowledge it. It can teach us important lessons, especially when we learn to laugh at ourselves and the situation.
  3. Humility comes from recognizing our failures, but it should be approached carefully. It's not just about feeling small, but understanding our place in relation to others and the world.
Boundless by Paul Millerd 283 implied HN points 09 Jun 25
  1. Having a regular writing practice helps keep creativity flowing. It's a great way to express thoughts and connect with others.
  2. Quality doesn't always need to be perfect; what's important is to keep sharing. Sometimes, just getting your ideas out is the best part of the process.
  3. Building a community around your work can lead to unexpected friendships and opportunities. Engaging with your audience is rewarding and fulfilling.
Maybe Baby 589 implied HN points 30 May 25
  1. The importance of sticking with things even when they seem slow or dull can lead to valuable insights. Don't rush through; take your time to absorb it all.
  2. Getting enough sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health. When sleep is lacking, life can feel tougher and more challenging.
  3. Reading essays and deep articles can help us connect with our emotions and experiences. They often reveal deeper truths about being human.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2239 implied HN points 28 Dec 24
  1. Many people think they are separate from others and the world, which causes a lot of suffering. We feel this even though our true nature isn't separate; it's just a belief we hold.
  2. We create problems as a society because we compete instead of collaborate. This competition leads to issues like poverty and war.
  3. If humanity can realize that we are not separate, we can work together and solve many of our biggest challenges. This realization has the potential to change everything for the better.
The Intrinsic Perspective 9701 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. Life has ups and downs, and problems often come in clusters. It's normal to feel overwhelmed when things go wrong.
  2. When you're at a low point, remember that life is like a rollercoaster with many twists and turns. Things often improve after tough times.
  3. Statistically, when you feel at your worst, it might actually be the moment before things start to get better. Hang in there!
Superb Owl 4396 implied HN points 04 Dec 24
  1. Experimenting with different meditation techniques can help if you're feeling stuck. Trying new methods like kasina or mirror gazing can bring fresh perspectives and experiences.
  2. Pain can be a powerful focus during meditation. Instead of avoiding discomfort, you can lean into it to gain better awareness and understanding of your sensations.
  3. Using substances like cannabis or psychedelics may enhance meditation experiences, but it's important to be cautious and not become overly dependent on them.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 9993 implied HN points 25 Jan 25
  1. Living on a farm brings a deep understanding of nature's realities. It's a reminder that not everything can be controlled, like waiting for hens to lay eggs.
  2. The transition from city life to a rural lifestyle can be challenging and unexpected. It often requires tough decisions, like dealing with the life and death of animals.
  3. Nature teaches valuable life lessons that many people might overlook in a digital age. Embracing these lessons can lead to personal growth and a reevaluation of what really matters in life.
Devansh’s Newsletter 15 implied HN points 27 Jun 25
  1. Meeting new people can be tiring and often feels like a gamble. Most of the time, it doesn't lead to exciting conversations.
  2. But sometimes, you meet someone who surprises you and makes the experience worth it. Those few amazing connections are like hitting the jackpot.
  3. This thrill of meeting new people is addictive because you never know when you'll find that special, fascinating conversation that expands your world.
Ben’s Blog 🏉 🧠🧑‍💻 21 implied HN points 11 Jun 25
  1. Celebrating your wins helps boost your energy and motivation. It's important to take a moment to enjoy your achievements instead of just focusing on what to improve.
  2. Public speaking can be challenging, but overcoming that fear can lead to great personal growth and satisfaction. It feels rewarding to push through and succeed in something you once dreaded.
  3. Having a positive mindset about your journey can inspire you to keep improving. Working with a coach can help elevate your skills and spread a good message about mental health and performance.
Both Are True 111 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. People often worry that others hate them, but they might actually be feeling the same insecurity. It's a common cycle of doubt.
  2. Instead of assuming someone dislikes you, it's better to recognize that they might be preoccupied with their own fears and feelings.
  3. Understanding that both sides might be feeling misunderstood can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and improve relationships.
The Analog Family 759 implied HN points 26 Aug 24
  1. Living abroad without smartphones leads to real immersion in the culture and language. It helps you learn and connect deeply with your surroundings.
  2. Feeling lost and homesick is part of the process, but overcoming these feelings can lead to personal growth and lifelong friendships.
  3. Modern communication tools can make it too easy to escape discomfort instead of fully engaging with new experiences, which may hinder genuine learning.
Neckar’s Notes 93 implied HN points 08 Jun 25
  1. Being fully present in the moment can lead to wonderful discoveries in life. Taking the time to appreciate your surroundings and just sit can reveal hidden treasures.
  2. Stepping away from a busy and narrow life can bring balance and new perspectives. Embracing open skies and spontaneous experiences can help recharge your spirit.
  3. Meaningful interactions often come from giving your full attention to others. It’s amazing how a small amount of patience and curiosity can turn simple conversations into deep connections.
Tech and Tea 115 implied HN points 15 Jun 25
  1. Creating space for yourself is really important, especially when life feels overwhelming. It helps you stay grounded and think clearly.
  2. Having a little structure or routine can make it easier to carve out that space. Simple rituals can help you relax and let go of stress.
  3. Guided journaling or courses can provide support and accountability. They make it more likely you'll show up for yourself and find clarity on what you really want.
Freddie deBoer 10643 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  1. Being thankful for loved ones is essential. Family and friends provide support in tough times.
  2. Thanksgiving is a favorite holiday because it focuses on gratitude without the stress of gift-giving. It’s a time to relax and enjoy good food and company.
  3. Mental health medications can be life-saving. They have helped many people rebuild their lives, despite some negative opinions about them.