The hottest Personal reflections Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Recently returned

Austin Kleon ā€¢ 5215 implied HN points ā€¢ 30 Aug 24
šŸŽ­ļø Culture Literature Music Art Documentaries Personal reflections
  1. The 'recently returned' shelf in libraries offers a unique escape from mainstream choices. It allows readers to discover books that aren't marketed or buzzing online.
  2. Embracing antilibraries can inspire creativity and learning. Looking at what you haven't read can be just as valuable as focusing on what you have.
  3. Returning to places where you feel at home can be fulfilling. It's important to appreciate where you are now, even if the journey to get there was winding.

Walking Phnom Penh

Chris Arnade Walks the World ā€¢ 1311 implied HN points ā€¢ 31 Oct 24
šŸ Travel City life Cultural Insights Personal reflections
  1. Phnom Penh is filled with children, which brings a joyful and optimistic vibe to the city. Their laughter and energy can lift people's spirits, making the environment feel more alive.
  2. Walking in Phnom Penh can be challenging due to busy roads and poor sidewalks, but drivers are generally considerate. This unique style of navigating through traffic is a skill learned in bustling cities.
  3. The city has a strong sense of community, as families together create small businesses. Even while facing struggles, like poverty, people still find fulfillment and meaning in having children and being part of a family.

New York City part four

Tao Lin ā€¢ 839 implied HN points ā€¢ 04 Jun 24
šŸ Travel Travel Writing Cultural experiences Personal reflections Lectures Art events
  1. The author enjoyed giving a lecture while in New York City and was surprised by the large turnout. It felt good to share ideas and connect with others who were interested.
  2. While reflecting on their trip, the author mentioned their emotional experiences, including crying during movies, which they attributed to a lack of cannabis at home and the effects of their journey.
  3. The author appreciated the conversations with friends and family while also documenting their feelings about art and society, highlighting the importance of genuine connections.

BOMBSHELL ... just kidding. My thoughts on the alien disclosure talk

Tessa Fights Robots ā€¢ 26 implied HN points ā€¢ 23 Jan 25
ā›Ŗ Faith & Spirituality Belief systems Spiritual Practices Philosophy Personal reflections Metaphysics
  1. Life exists beyond Earth and in different dimensions. We only understand a small part of what is around us.
  2. People with power often try to control and exploit all forms of life, whether human, animal, or alien.
  3. Personal freedom is important, and no one should feel forced to accept something harmful, like a vaccine against a so-called alien flu.

Tell them what they mean to you

Disaffected Newsletter ā€¢ 1458 implied HN points ā€¢ 31 May 23
šŸ„ Health & Wellness Mental health Emotional Wellness Personal reflections
  1. It's important to express how much someone means to you, especially as they approach the end of life. Sharing your feelings can bring comfort to both you and them.
  2. Facing death can be hard, but don't let fear keep you away. Being present, holding hands, and talking about your love can make a difference.
  3. Staying busy with everyday tasks can help ease the burden of grief. Taking care of chores can be a good way to cope with loss.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

2024 S&tS Year in Review

Sex and the State ā€¢ 13 implied HN points ā€¢ 01 Jan 25
šŸŽ­ļø Culture Gender Studies Media Analysis Social Issues Personal reflections Writing Techniques
  1. Focusing on gender was a big highlight in 2024. It helped shape the content and direction of the discussions.
  2. The author chose favorite posts based on personal value rather than popularity. This shows a desire to share meaningful insights, not just what's trending.
  3. Collaboration and guest appearances were significant this year. Engaging with others brought in new perspectives and growth for the newsletter.

Essay Club: Fragments From an Education by Christopher Hitchens

Mind & Mythos ā€¢ 99 implied HN points ā€¢ 27 Jan 24
šŸ“š Literature Essays Authors Literary Criticism Personal reflections Cultural Commentary
  1. Christopher Hitchens was a known writer and debater with strong opinions. He wasn't afraid to challenge the mainstream views of his time.
  2. In his essay, he shares personal reflections on education. He looks at how his life experiences shaped his understanding of learning.
  3. Hitchens combines humor and deep thoughts in his writing. His style makes even complex ideas easier for readers to grasp.

Iā€™m the only fucking coward in this town

Splattern ā€¢ 79 implied HN points ā€¢ 10 Feb 24
šŸ Travel Personal reflections Physical Fitness
  1. Taking a rest day can feel challenging but it's important for recovery. It allows your body to heal and feel better for future activities.
  2. Finding joy in activities outside of your main goal helps expand your happiness. Trying new things can be rewarding and refreshing.
  3. It's okay to not push your limits all the time. Stopping to take a break doesn't mean you are weak or giving up; it's part of the journey.

What grief feels like (a visual story)

Cozy Philosophy ā€¢ 39 implied HN points ā€¢ 23 Feb 24
šŸŽØ Art & Illustration Personal reflections
  1. The experience of grief can linger even after the immediate danger has passed, and can be expressed through creative outlets like visual storytelling, poetry, and music.
  2. Personal growth and reflection can be found in deep conversations with friends, exploring topics like shifting from a 'story of separation' to a 'story of interbeing,' embracing simplicity, and thriving as a multipotentialite.
  3. Hosting virtual gatherings like a Cozy Cafe can provide a space for casual chats, creative collaboration, and nurturing connections with others.

The Happiest Sad Man Alive

The False Consensus Effect ā€¢ 39 implied HN points ā€¢ 14 Jan 24
šŸŽØ Art & Illustration Artistic expression Personal reflections
  1. Creative poverty can lead to a sense of freedom and contentment, sparking new perspectives and heightened joy in everyday life.
  2. Expressing oneself through art can be a powerful way to feel deeply and connect with others, enriching both the giver and the recipient.
  3. Embracing simplicity and reducing consumption can bring about a renewed outlook on life, with fresh eyes to appreciate the ordinary and find joy in the mundane.

Do You Want to Live Near Friends? | #236

Boundless by Paul Millerd ā€¢ 130 implied HN points ā€¢ 19 Aug 23
šŸŽ­ļø Culture Friendship Community Personal reflections
  1. Living near friends can significantly impact happiness, with closer proximity having a larger positive effect.
  2. Choosing where to live based on social connections can lead to more spontaneous interactions and increased happiness.
  3. Conventional societal norms around homeownership and living in suburbs may limit options for alternative living arrangements.

Story Twenty-Six

Stories From The Rail ā€¢ 59 implied HN points ā€¢ 25 May 22
šŸ Travel Cultural experiences Personal reflections
  1. Different accents and behaviors can make people uncomfortable, but it's important to be assertive and proud of who you are.
  2. Humor can be challenging when dealing with language barriers, but showing support and laughing along can make a difference.
  3. Being a tourist can be enjoyable and humorous, but it's also essential to be cautious and respectful of local norms to avoid accidents or embarrassing situations.