The hottest Self-help Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Health & Wellness Topics
bookbear express β€’ 423 implied HN points β€’ 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.
Knowingless β€’ 1121 implied HN points β€’ 19 Feb 25
  1. Needle phobia can be very serious and isn't always taken seriously by others. This fear can lead to panic attacks and avoidance of medical care.
  2. Exposure therapy often doesn't help with severe needle phobia. Finding alternatives like distraction or numbing methods can be more effective for managing panic.
  3. Techniques like ice packs and specialized devices can significantly reduce the pain associated with needles. Experimenting with different methods can lead to better results and less anxiety.
L'Atelier Galita β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 17 Oct 24
  1. Executive functions help us manage everyday tasks like organizing schedules and controlling impulses. They're like little managers in our heads that guide our adult life.
  2. For people with ADHD, these executive functions can develop slower, leading to challenges in planning and starting tasks. This can make adult responsibilities feel really tough.
  3. There are eight main executive functions, including working memory and emotional regulation. Each one plays a key role in how we handle life’s challenges and goals.
L'Atelier Galita β€’ 139 implied HN points β€’ 16 Oct 24
  1. ADHD can show up in different ways, like trouble focusing or being hyperactive. It's important to understand these traits to recognize and discuss ADHD better.
  2. People with ADHD may struggle with things like organization and time management. Their brains work differently, leading to challenges in focusing on tasks unless there’s something interesting or urgent about them.
  3. Emotional regulation can be tough for someone with ADHD. They might react strongly to feelings of rejection or anger, even if it seems delayed, which can be confusing for others.
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L'Atelier Galita β€’ 159 implied HN points β€’ 14 Oct 24
  1. TDAH stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, affecting focus and attention. It’s not just about being hyperactive; people with TDAH can struggle to concentrate on many tasks.
  2. More men are diagnosed with TDAH than women, but it can affect anyone. It's important to consider whether age plays a role in how TDAH symptoms manifest.
  3. TDAH can be hereditary, meaning if a parent has it, their children might be more likely to have it too. It's crucial to avoid self-diagnosing, as it can lead to many incorrect assumptions about conditions.
Both Are True β€’ 161 implied HN points β€’ 03 Jun 25
  1. Saying 'I failed' focuses on a specific mistake and helps you move on, while saying 'I'm a failure' makes it feel like a part of your identity and can lead to shame.
  2. The 'failure bow' is a fun way to acknowledge mistakes and celebrate them, instead of feeling bad. It's okay to cheer for yourself and others when you fail!
  3. It's important to separate your actions from your self-worth. Just because you failed at something doesn't mean you are a failure as a person.
L'Atelier Galita β€’ 59 implied HN points β€’ 20 Oct 24
  1. The book 'Dirty Laundry' explores the dynamic between a person with ADHD and their partner who does not have it. It shows how their different brain types affect their relationship.
  2. The author points out that the neurotypical partner often misunderstands ADHD traits and compares them to their own experiences. This highlights the challenges in understanding each other's perspectives.
  3. It's interesting to note that some behaviors the neurotypical partner attributes to being typical, could actually show characteristics of autism, demonstrating the complexity of neurodiversity.
Kristina God's Online Writing Club β€’ 1558 implied HN points β€’ 16 Jul 24
  1. Writers often struggle due to negative mindsets that hold them back. It's important to change how you think before seeking more skills or knowledge.
  2. Taking risks can lead to significant growth. Stepping out of comfort zones can help overcome insecurities and open new opportunities.
  3. Most writers give up when they face challenges, thinking their work is not good enough. It's crucial to push through these feelings to achieve success.
Culture Study β€’ 2000 implied HN points β€’ 12 Nov 24
  1. It's important to know when to quit something that isn't working for you. Sometimes, sticking it out can be a waste of time.
  2. You need to find a balance between perseverance and knowing when to let go. Each situation is different, so consider your feelings and results.
  3. Whether it's a book, a hobby, or a job, listen to your intuition. If you're unhappy, it might be time to move on.
Soaring Twenties β€’ 208 implied HN points β€’ 02 Feb 25
  1. Enjoy the process of learning and creating. Taking your time and being organized can make the experience much more fulfilling.
  2. It's important to set personal resolutions that truly matter to you, instead of following trends or what others expect.
  3. Reading can be a meaningful activity, especially when done mindfully, allowing you to savor each piece and reflect on it.
Both Are True β€’ 152 implied HN points β€’ 28 May 25
  1. People often ignore problems even when they know they should fix them. For example, toe fungus is not pleasant, yet it can take time to seek help.
  2. Sometimes we feel frustrated when family members try to help us with our issues, even if we really need it. It's a common reaction to feel defensive instead of accepting support.
  3. Procrastination can lead to ongoing issues that become more complicated. Making a plan and actually following through is key to overcoming challenges.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter β€’ 2535 implied HN points β€’ 31 Jan 25
  1. Ayn Rand encourages people to find joy in their everyday work. She believes that seeing your job as valuable can lead to a happier life.
  2. She suggests it's okay to judge yourself and others to motivate self-improvement. Feeling like a 'loser' can drive you to do better things in life.
  3. Rand argues that being selfish is part of human nature and should be accepted. Understanding this can help us build a happier and more productive life.
Maybe Baby β€’ 2194 implied HN points β€’ 02 Feb 25
  1. Cringe can come in different forms, like wholesome, clueless, train wreck, and malevolent. Each type reflects a mix of awareness and sincerity.
  2. Not all actions that break social norms are cringe-worthy, but knowing your own cringe can help you avoid being too out of touch.
  3. When sharing personal thoughts online, it's important to stay sincere and aware to avoid falling into the trap of inauthenticity.
Subtle Digressions β€’ 619 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jul 24
  1. Dreams often fade as time goes by, and people may feel stuck and lost in their lives. It's common to start off with big hopes and face self-doubt along the way.
  2. As years pass, many feel overwhelmed and see others achieving their goals while they struggle. This can lead to feelings of despair and regret about missed opportunities.
  3. One day, a spark of that old dream can reignite hope. It reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue what we truly want and to tell our own story.
L'Atelier Galita β€’ 79 implied HN points β€’ 09 Oct 24
  1. Finding a career that fits you is sometimes hard. It's tough to know what you really love doing, even though other factors seem easier to identify.
  2. Tim Urban's idea of the 'octopus of desires' shows that our different aspirations can clash with each other. You can't easily satisfy all your desires at once.
  3. There are five types of desires: personal, social, moral, practical, and lifestyle. It's important to prioritize these to find better balance and fulfillment in your life.
Tao Lin β€’ 599 implied HN points β€’ 22 Jul 24
  1. Raising a profoundly autistic child can be incredibly challenging and heartbreaking. The author shares true stories of frustration and helplessness while caring for her daughter Ellie.
  2. There is a growing concern about the rising cases of profound autism, with the author questioning the commonly held belief that autism is purely genetic. The book highlights the potential roles of diet and environmental factors.
  3. Despite the struggles, the memoir offers a perspective that can cultivate gratitude in readers. It serves as a reminder of the importance of support and love in difficult circumstances.
Remarkable People β€’ 519 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jul 24
  1. What really matters is that you find something that motivates you, no matter what it is. It doesn't have to be a big or noble goal; any drive can lead to success.
  2. Your personal experiences can shape what inspires you. For example, wanting a better car can be just as motivating as wanting to change the world.
  3. Don't stress too much about the nature of your motivations. What's important is that you are motivated to work hard and strive for your goals.
Disaffected Newsletter β€’ 1039 implied HN points β€’ 04 Jun 24
  1. It's common for people to look to experts for answers to their problems, but often there isn't a clear right answer. Many issues are complicated and need thoughtful discussion rather than a simple solution.
  2. Conversations can help people clarify their thoughts and feelings about difficult situations. Talking through problems can lead to better decisions that fit their unique lives.
  3. While some coaches or consultants may not have formal training, they can still provide valuable support. They can help clients understand their problems better and explore possible outcomes.
Kristina God's Online Writing Club β€’ 799 implied HN points β€’ 18 Jun 24
  1. Accepting your current situation is the first step to real change. Acknowledging where you are right now helps you figure out what to do next.
  2. Reading and learning can change your life. Putting in the effort to improve yourself opens up new opportunities.
  3. Hard work is necessary for success, but luck plays a role too. By working hard, you create chances for unexpected good things to happen.
Granted β€’ 7906 implied HN points β€’ 28 Jan 23
  1. Tim Urban's book 'What's Our Problem?' offers insightful analysis on societal issues and how to combat polarization and tribalism.
  2. Nedra Glover Tawwab's 'Drama Free' provides valuable advice on handling family relationships, emphasizing the importance of mental health in families.
  3. Bill Hammack's 'The Things We Make' unravels the engineering behind human masterpieces, making engineering concepts accessible even for those who don't love math.
Disaffected Newsletter β€’ 1438 implied HN points β€’ 30 Apr 24
  1. Sometimes people need to face pain or harsh truths to make real changes in their lives. Hitting rock bottom can help someone start fresh.
  2. It's okay to feel conflicted about wanting others to experience hardship. That struggle can lead to deeper understanding and personal growth.
  3. Facing difficult realities, like unhealthy relationships or addiction, can lead to positive transformation. Growing through pain often brings clarity and strength.
Polymathic Being β€’ 85 implied HN points β€’ 26 Jan 25
  1. It's okay to ask others for help; doing everything alone can lead to failure. We’re social beings, and working together usually gets better results.
  2. People often struggle to accept help, especially when it’s different from how they would do things. Letting go of control can open the door to new ideas.
  3. Recognizing the differences between masculine and feminine qualities helps create stronger partnerships. It's important to appreciate both instead of treating everyone the same.
The Pomp Letter β€’ 3776 implied HN points β€’ 27 Dec 23
  1. Reading is a valuable way to learn and gain fresh ideas across different topics.
  2. Books recommended by successful individuals can provide insights and lessons applicable to personal and professional growth.
  3. Investing time in reading can be rewarding and essential for personal development and career advancement.
OK Doomer β€’ 126 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jan 25
  1. Curiosity is important for critical thinking. We should explore ideas we may not agree with to learn more about the world.
  2. Many self-help books repeat the same ideas, but some can still have a lasting impact on our mindset.
  3. It's okay to approach self-help materials with a critical perspective instead of fully embracing their messages.
The Commonplace β€’ 1245 implied HN points β€’ 09 Dec 24
  1. The self-improvement industry often takes advantage of people's desires, making them feel like they need to buy tips or products to be better. It's important to recognize that wanting to improve ourselves is normal, but the way these products sell improvement can be misleading.
  2. Many people know what they need to do to improve their lives but don't actually take action. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment or the right advice, it's better to focus on accepting yourself and taking small steps towards what you want.
  3. The self-improvement culture can become a trap, making people feel guilty for not achieving unrealistic goals. It’s okay to want to escape from pressure, and sometimes, it's smarter to step back from all the noise and figure out what truly makes you happy.
Day One β€’ 938 implied HN points β€’ 09 Mar 24
  1. Time is the most valuable asset as it cannot be created or bought back. Focus on utilizing your time effectively to reach your goals.
  2. Distractions such as social media, excess entertainment, and procrastination can hinder progress. Identify them and work towards eliminating them to achieve success.
  3. Prioritize learning from helpful resources and taking action. Choose a few key lessons to implement, banishing distractions until they become part of your daily routine.
Overthinking Everything β€’ 733 implied HN points β€’ 15 Nov 24
  1. Making excuses for not reading, like blaming capitalism or phones, won't help you. You need to recognize that these are just reasons to avoid facing the real problem.
  2. Try using techniques like 'negative pomodoros' to create an environment that helps you focus on reading. Removing distractions and setting specific rules can make reading easier.
  3. The real challenge is finding the motivation to read. Sometimes you have to be brave and just try things, even if you're not sure you want to readβ€”or discover that maybe reading isn't what you want anymore.
OK Doomer β€’ 126 implied HN points β€’ 30 Nov 24
  1. There's a growing trend of courses teaching people how to smile, reflecting a culture obsessed with appearing happy despite feeling otherwise. Many are pressured to smile even when they don't feel like it, which can be unhealthy.
  2. T.S. Eliot's poem 'The Hollow Men' speaks to the emptiness of society and resonates more today as we face crises and pressures to conform, like forcing smiles.
  3. Forcing yourself to smile can worsen mental health issues, and it's important to acknowledge how societal expectations around smiling can be harmful.
thestoa β€’ 687 implied HN points β€’ 27 Jan 24
  1. Question the notion of having a predefined life purpose.
  2. Living without a defined purpose can lead to a more adventurous life.
  3. Avoid getting caught up in the societal pressure of constantly showcasing a sense of purpose.
thestoa β€’ 727 implied HN points β€’ 13 Jan 24
  1. Approach the 'coach industrial complex' with cynicism and criticism due to toxic positivity and overpromising.
  2. There is a market demand for 'space holders' like coaches, therapists, and philosophical counselors.
  3. The coach industrial complex has the potential to improve interpersonal skills and lead to widespread positive regard without the need for paid services.
Disaffected Newsletter β€’ 1438 implied HN points β€’ 15 Aug 23
  1. Being a reductionist means finding common patterns across different issues. It can help make sense of complex topics, especially in mental health.
  2. The way we label mental health issues can sometimes complicate things unnecessarily. Many diagnoses might just be different expressions of the same underlying problem.
  3. Understanding mental health as linked to root causes, like trauma, might be more helpful than viewing each disorder as separate. It's important to look at the bigger picture.