Jeff Giesea

Essays on politics, culture, and personal growth.

The hottest Substack posts of Jeff Giesea

And their main takeaways
219 implied HN points 30 Apr 24
  1. The point of perspiration is a moment when effort shifts to a flow state, making tasks feel easier and more natural. It's like finding a groove where you forget about your worries and enjoy what you're doing.
  2. We often experience this point in different areas of life, like parenting or work, where after a struggle, we get into a rhythm and just go with the flow.
  3. Instead of dreading the tough moments, we should embrace them as a chance to find our flow. Anticipating the sweat can lead to greater acceptance and joy in our activities.
219 implied HN points 01 Apr 24
  1. Grieving is a personal journey, and it's okay to let go of sadness over time. It's important to find a way to remember loved ones while moving forward.
  2. Sharing memories and stories about those we've lost can lead to moments of joy, even amidst the sadness. Laughter and memories can help heal.
  3. It's normal to feel a mix of emotions when grieving. Allowing yourself to smile and celebrate the life of those who have passed can be a way to honor them.
519 implied HN points 07 Nov 23
  1. David Perell emphasizes the transformative power of online writing.
  2. Online writing is meant to be social and can lead to bigger opportunities.
  3. Participating in programs like Write of Passage can awaken something within you and improve your writing skills.
439 implied HN points 30 Nov 23
  1. Distinguish your writing from AI like ChatGPT by being more human.
  2. Put more of yourself in your writing to make it standout and relatable.
  3. Fully human writing includes personal details, unique insights, and human connection that AI cannot replicate.
479 implied HN points 28 Oct 23
  1. Writing personal essays is a form of self-discovery and becoming.
  2. Becoming who you are involves having faith and embracing the process of continual improvement.
  3. Life is about adaptation, replacement, and embracing change for personal growth.
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339 implied HN points 14 Nov 23
  1. The author decided to quit alcohol three years ago for personal and parenting reasons.
  2. Going alcohol-free was challenging at first but led to improved well-being and a sense of lightness.
  3. The author is now focusing on incorporating more laughter into life through various methods like stand-up comedy classes and keeping a 'laughing journal'.
259 implied HN points 22 Dec 23
  1. There can be negativity towards unconventional parenting methods like surrogacy and IVF.
  2. It's hard to navigate criticism and misconceptions about unconventional ways of having children, especially in a public forum.
  3. Finding personal peace and understanding in religious or symbolic contexts can help combat negativity and criticism.
339 implied HN points 24 Oct 23
  1. Engaging critics is important for growth and progress.
  2. Steelman the strongest opposing viewpoints to understand them better.
  3. Diversifying information sources and engaging with differing perspectives can help in personal growth and evolving ideas.
159 implied HN points 31 Oct 23
  1. The short story reflects on rejecting nihilism and embracing shadows, height, and truth.
  2. The story explores a world where everything is half-truth and the complexities are revolved against.
  3. The rain and the return of the shadow symbolize hope, resilience, and the realization that everything will be okay.
1 HN point 13 May 24
  1. Writing essays can help you process your thoughts and emotions. It feels like going on a journey where you discover what you truly want to say.
  2. Essays are a way to connect with others and share experiences. They can help you feel less alone and create meaningful connections, similar to the friendships formed during a trek.
  3. Writing is a valuable tool for personal growth and understanding. It can lead to new insights and lets you explore your ideas and feelings in depth.
2 HN points 10 Oct 23
  1. Grief can shape political beliefs and choices.
  2. Be cautious of being influenced by personal grievances in political decisions.
  3. Stay true to your moral compass and prioritize the greater good over personal feelings.