The hottest Personal Stories Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

If you're not succeeding, try being earnest | #23

pole • 275 implied HN points • 30 May 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Personal Stories Lessons Learned Self-awareness Mindfulness Inner peace
  1. When facing challenges, pretend you have all the time in the world to approach them calmly.
  2. Success doesn't come from following a formula, but from paying attention and surrendering to the process.
  3. Earnestness is key to success, as it involves expanding awareness and offering attention without local expectations.

Do not date me

Thicket Forte • 659 implied HN points • 12 Nov 22
😂 Humor Dating Relationships Narrative Personal Stories Social Commentary
  1. The person feels unworthy of dating because of past embarrassing or strange experiences, like almost drowning while trying to impress someone.
  2. They joke about their physical flaws, like having bad eyesight and not being able to look at someone properly.
  3. They express worries about their lack of skills or knowledge for a future together, and feel they wouldn't be a good partner in tough situations.

Ten Little Things

Nice Try • 319 implied HN points • 29 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Writing Art Lifestyle Personal Stories Entertainment
  1. Writing can be done anywhere, even in a small notebook. It helps with creativity and can be more enjoyable than using a phone.
  2. It's important to take care of health issues, like allergies. Visiting a doctor can lead to better solutions for feeling good.
  3. Life can be busy with chores and personal projects, but spending time with loved ones, like going to a movie premiere, makes it all worthwhile.
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The Ocean Is Gay

Paging Dr. Lesbian • 176 implied HN points • 04 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture LGBTQ+ Science Nature Personal Stories Metaphors
  1. Sabrina Imbler's book explores the unique lives of ocean creatures and connects them to personal experiences.
  2. The author, a queer, mixed-race individual, offers a different perspective in the realm of science writing.
  3. Imbler makes emotional connections between sea creatures and personal stories, adding depth to scientific facts.

Trauma

backstory • 290 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
💾 History War Personal Stories Tragedy Memory Legacy
  1. Trauma can have a lasting impact, even from seemingly minor incidents
  2. Family history and past experiences can shape how we view the world
  3. Events from history can have long-lasting effects on individuals and societies

Le poison lent de l'Atelier

L'Atelier Galita • 79 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories
  1. The impacts of overcommitment and guilt from feeling the need to constantly deliver for paying subscribers
  2. Recognizing the insidious nature of procrastination and its impact on productivity
  3. Importance of reflection and awareness to address hidden issues affecting work performance

Finding our way as misfits

The Recovering Academic • 118 implied HN points • 10 Feb 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Personal Stories Community Identity
  1. The post discusses the importance of finding support and bonding with others who share the feeling of being misfits.
  2. It highlights the impact of a supportive friend who listens and encourages, making a significant difference in one's life and work.
  3. The post emphasizes the value of genuine connections that make individuals feel understood and that their words truly matter.

Good Luck / episode 4

Nice Try • 59 implied HN points • 21 Dec 23
😂 Humor Dark humor Internet culture Personal Stories Anecdotes Scams
  1. A friend died while laughing on the phone after a funny online scam. It's shocking how life can take such unexpected turns.
  2. The scam was about wiring money to help Harvard, filled with misspellings and bad grammar. This made the situation even more ridiculous for the friend.
  3. The story shows how humor can sometimes lead to unthinkable outcomes in life. It reminds us to appreciate laughter, but also the fragility of life.

(Ad-free Video) Cyan Banister: A master class in curiosity--Risk, Resilience and Betting on the Future

Critical Mass • 1 implied HN point • 24 Jan 25
🎙 Podcasts Interviews Entrepreneurship Technology Inspiration Personal Stories
  1. Cyan Banister's journey from homelessness to becoming a tech visionary shows how resilience can lead to success. It's a powerful reminder that tough beginnings don't define your future.
  2. She emphasizes a scientific approach to life and business, encouraging exploration and being open to change. This attitude can help you adapt and thrive in various situations.
  3. The podcast highlights the importance of creativity and support in overcoming challenges. It inspires listeners to think about how they can help others achieve their goals and tackle big problems.

Some updates and the like

Just Enough to Get Me in Trouble • 18 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Communication Personal Stories Arts Community Engagement
  1. A new original piece will be published on December 21st, where several writers will share their personal philosophies.
  2. There will be a live Community Writing Circle in Sonoma on January 13th, inviting all types of writers to connect and create.
  3. A portion of paid subscriptions goes to the Cerebral Palsy Foundation, supporting important initiatives for those with CP.

The Heron

Banana Peel Pirouette • 59 implied HN points • 28 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories Social Issues Workplace dynamics Friendship Life Changes
  1. The story involves a detailed recounting of a chaotic night at a craft beer and sandwich shop, highlighting the challenges of dealing with demanding customers and managing work responsibilities.
  2. The protagonist navigates personal struggles, including a strained relationship, job changes, and financial difficulties, showcasing the complexities of balancing work and personal life.
  3. The narrative touches on themes of workplace dynamics, loyalty, and growth, as the protagonist reflects on past experiences and transitions to a new bartending job while adjusting to life changes.

Cruising Speed

Castalia • 139 implied HN points • 20 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Personal Stories Youth
  1. Derek was a talented drummer who had a carefree, rebellious spirit in high school, which made him stand out. He found his passion in music early but struggled with maturity and relationships as he grew older.
  2. Despite facing challenges like drug use and a short-lived band career, Derek still managed to find some success in music. He had a loyal girlfriend and performed in various bands, showing that he had a devoted following.
  3. Tragically, Derek's life ended unexpectedly in an accident, which shocked many. His friends and family recognized his talent, but there was also a narrative about his struggles and choices that shaped how people remembered him.

Revisited: The girl with long hair

Eclecticism: Reflections on literature, writing and life • 6 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Personal Stories Public Speaking Events
  1. The speaker shared his experience of speaking at a live event without much preparation, which made him more nervous than usual. It shows that sometimes, being spontaneous can lead to interesting outcomes.
  2. He felt uncomfortable discussing personal topics, especially when the theme was about 'Reunion' and love. This highlights how sharing emotions can be challenging for many people.
  3. Despite the nerves, the speaker’s talk was well-received, leading to an invitation to speak again. It shows that taking risks, even when we feel unprepared, can sometimes lead to positive opportunities.

Is this how my catalytic convertor saga ends?

Situation Normal • 87 implied HN points • 02 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories Automotive Crime Community Technology
  1. The author faced a dilemma about what to do with their car after multiple catalytic converter thefts.
  2. The options included getting a better parking spot, selling the car and relying on Lyft, or selling and buying a new car.
  3. Ultimately, the author found a solution through a mechanic who had spare catalytic converters and offered to install a shield to protect the car.

Catechism

Castalia • 119 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Film Television Storytelling Editing Personal Stories
  1. Sometimes, stories that seem fascinating can feel boring in real life. The excitement gets lost during retelling.
  2. The editing process is really important in filmmaking. Editors can completely change how a story is perceived.
  3. People in the industry often have their own struggles and past experiences that influence their work and attitudes.

One season into the next

thegreataffair • 19 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🏝 Travel Personal Stories Photography
  1. The post discusses personal reflections on Berlin and the experience of finding one's way around a new place.
  2. The author shares a photodrop capturing the end of 2023, highlighting the vibes and memories from that time.
  3. It emphasizes the importance of storytelling and seeking connections in a rapidly changing world.

Going to 105% on the Reactor

The Radar • 19 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
💼 Business Leadership Writing Subscription Model Workplace culture Personal Stories
  1. The newsletter is evolving into a more professional project with the option for paid subscriptions to support the creator.
  2. The author aims to build a community around meaningful discussions on leadership and offer unique insights in a nuanced manner.
  3. Subscribers have the freedom to pay what they want to support the newsletter, with options ranging from $1 to $10 per month.

I got goosed!

My Home Office Hacks • 2 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Kindness Community Personal Stories Social Issues Emotional Health
  1. Acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. One good deed can inspire another, leading to more positive moments.
  2. Sometimes, unexpected conversations can lead to meaningful connections. Sharing personal experiences can help both parties heal and find comfort.
  3. Be cautious with emails about payments, especially around holidays. Always check your accounts directly to avoid scams.

Twitter-Quitter | Secret Sauce | Teen love

Situation Normal • 86 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Social media Writing AI Personal Stories Entertainment
  1. The author quit Twitter due to changes and frustrations, emphasizing the importance of finding new ways to reach and connect with the audience.
  2. Writing newsletters through email can be a good interactive platform, promoting engagement and feedback from readers.
  3. There is no secret sauce to writing well, just keep practicing, experimenting with new styles and forms, and reading critically for improvement.

Hello World | #1

The Pole • 19 implied HN points • 28 Dec 22
🎭️ Culture Creativity Personal Stories Feedback Market
  1. Starting a newsletter to build connections over esoteric ideas and initiate dialogues with others.
  2. Launching a newsletter now for sustainability by prioritizing habit over perfection and focusing on delivering value to readers.
  3. As a reader, expect a mix of curated content organized into unique sections, seeking feedback to improve and make the newsletter engaging.

Speaking of You

DruGroup • 19 implied HN points • 20 Dec 21
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Theology Personal Stories Community Engagement Coaching
  1. The author appreciates their readers and encourages them to share articles. This sharing helps grow the readership and reach others who may find the content valuable.
  2. The decision was made to keep the subscription free rather than introducing a paid option. The author values continued engagement without charging their audience.
  3. The author is open to addressing reader questions and interests in future writings. They invite feedback on what topics readers want to explore next.

Mrs Doubtfire: the newsletter

Letters from Lisa • 0 implied HN points • 26 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Movies Celebrity Personal Stories
  1. Lisa Jakub reflects on her conflicted feelings about the enduring legacy of Mrs. Doubtfire in her life.
  2. She acknowledges the impact the movie had on her career path, despite the challenges it brought.
  3. Jakub expresses gratitude for moments of beauty and connection in her life, balancing the positives and negatives from her past.

o^i ho^`ng nhan

Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc • 0 implied HN points • 13 Apr 08
🎭️ Culture Personal Stories Work Life Family Dynamics Social Issues
  1. Life can be very different based on one's circumstances, like growing up in poverty or having a luxurious lifestyle.
  2. We often judge people's choices without understanding the challenges they face and the limited options available to them.
  3. It's important to consider the backgrounds and struggles of others before passing judgment on their decisions.