The hottest Self-reflection Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Literature Topics

Writing While Needed By Others

Writerly Things with Brooke Warner • 2400 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
📚 Literature Self-reflection
  1. It's hard to write when you feel like others need you all the time. Some writers find they need to physically separate themselves from distractions to focus.
  2. Writers, especially women and moms, often feel guilty for taking time for themselves to write. It's important to remind ourselves that our creative pursuits are valuable too.
  3. There are strategies to combat feelings of selfishness and guilt when prioritizing writing. Finding what works for you can help make writing a regular part of your life.

How to feel bad and be wrong

Experimental History • 40381 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
📖 Philosophy Self-reflection
  1. Our brains often take shortcuts when facing tough questions, making it easier to answer simple ones instead. This can lead us to overlook important issues in our lives.
  2. Many people measure their worth and productivity based on how hard they feel they are working, instead of setting clear goals. This can cause unnecessary stress and feelings of inadequacy.
  3. When assessing things like the state of the economy or the quality of a school, we tend to rely on popular opinion rather than personal experience. This leads to judgments that may not reflect reality.

The hardest thing about adulthood

Residual Thoughts • 99 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. As adults, it's often harder to know what we truly want rather than just getting it. This can lead to feelings of being lost or unsure about our life direction.
  2. Many people struggle to balance prestige and lifestyle when choosing a career. It can be tough to figure out what matters more to you.
  3. One way to deal with uncertainty is to understand yourself better through reflection. Alternatively, you can choose something and fully commit to it, which might lead to more fulfillment.

The Deferred Life Plan

Residual Thoughts • 198 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Life can feel chaotic and uncertain, which can be scary but also motivating. It's important to use this urgency to pursue what you truly want to do.
  2. Rather than waiting for the perfect moment or inspiration, start working on your passions now. Don't let life's unpredictability hold you back.
  3. Avoid getting distracted by temporary pleasures; focus on meaningful work and long-term goals instead. This will bring more fulfillment in the long run.
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The Patient

Sensible Medicine • 4088 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. Identifying as a patient can sometimes overshadow your whole identity, and it's crucial to remember you are more than just the patient label.
  2. Being seen as a 'Patient' by others can affect how they interact with you, sometimes diminishing your identity beyond your health status.
  3. Despite the challenges of being defined by your health struggles, it's possible to regain aspects of your identity and redefine yourself beyond the patient role.

Chúng em xin hứa

Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc • 3914 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Sometimes participating in events just for the sake of being part of it can add some color to our otherwise dull lives.
  2. Not everyone accompanying a group is a part of it, some are there just for show and to take photos.
  3. Reflecting on the value of experiences and moments captured can make us appreciate the significance of each opportunity.

Family Week

Ladyparts • 1058 implied HN points • 30 May 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. The author realized her partner was an addict and had been lying about various things, impacting her trust and perception of their relationship.
  2. It is important to share stories of betrayal and shame as a way to heal, reclaim power, and counteract unwarranted shame.
  3. The experience with the addict partner highlighted the complexities of trust, betrayal, and the challenges of recognizing deceit even in close relationships.

my variations

sweater weather • 4894 implied HN points • 28 Nov 23
📚 Literature Self-reflection
  1. Repetition compulsion and variation are key elements discussed.
  2. Reflection on personal growth and understanding of past selves.
  3. Importance of staying true to one's unique perspective in creative work.

A love of life (or lack thereof)

Subtle Digressions • 599 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. As we grow older, we often lose the excitement and dreams we had when we were younger. Life becomes more practical and less about following our passions.
  2. It's important to give ourselves permission to be creative and to fail. We often hold back because we worry about how our work will be judged.
  3. Being honest with ourselves and others is key to finding joy and meaning in life. When we stop pretending and show our true selves, we can reconnect with what we love.

An open letter to 56 people I know

Sasha's 'Newsletter' • 4473 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. It's important to recognize and appreciate the goodness in yourself, even if it's hard to see. Everyone has value, and it's essential to remind ourselves of that.
  2. Friendship can deeply impact our lives, providing support during tough times and helping us grow. A genuine connection can make us feel normal and understood.
  3. We often admire others for their unique talents and perspectives, which might inspire us to reflect on our strengths and insecurities. It's great to have people in our lives who challenge and motivate us.

affinity

bookbear express • 1122 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. People often find it hard to determine what they truly like about something. It's easy to focus on the fun parts but miss the bigger picture.
  2. Having a genuine connection or affinity for someone isn't about liking every detail; it's about feeling drawn to them on a deeper level.
  3. It's important to trust your instincts when pursuing interests and relationships. Sometimes you just know what resonates with you, even if you can't explain it.

Inside the Writerly Life of Joan Didion

MILLER’S BOOK REVIEW 📚 • 1159 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
📚 Literature Self-reflection
  1. Joan Didion's early writing experiences shaped her as a writer since childhood, emphasizing the importance of practicing and developing writing skills from a young age.
  2. Joan Didion's keen attention to sentence structure and style was influenced by authors like Hemingway, Conrad, and James, showcasing how studying others' works can inform one's writing.
  3. Joan Didion viewed writing as an integral part of her thought process, using writing as a tool for exploration and self-discovery, and recognizing the impact of her writing tools on her thought process.

Nostalgia

ASK MOLLY • 2162 implied HN points • 22 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Value nostalgia and the memories associated with it.
  2. Embrace a mix of indulgence and suffering in life.
  3. Appreciate the importance of maintaining love for the things and people in your life.

Tell the beautiful truth, not the brutal truth

Jeff Giesea • 758 implied HN points • 09 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. There's a difference between telling the beautiful truth and the brutal truth. Beautiful truth connects with people, while brutal truth can push them away.
  2. Being mindful of your intention when sharing truths is important. If your truth comes from a good place, it can really help others feel supported.
  3. It’s essential to be compassionate towards yourself when sharing truths. Treating yourself kindly makes it easier to extend that kindness to others.

The weekly review

Austin Kleon • 3437 implied HN points • 25 Apr 23
🚌 Education Self-reflection
  1. Scheduling a regular time for a weekly review helps you reflect on what you've done and plan what you want to do next. It’s about taking a moment to think and organize your thoughts.
  2. Using a method that works for you, like making mind maps or lists, can make your review more effective. Visualizing your tasks can help you see connections and prioritize better.
  3. A private weekly review can lead to clearer mind and focus for the upcoming week. It allows you to 'clear your psychic decks' so you can enjoy your time off without distractions.

the full moon in leo for writers

astrology for writers • 982 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Self-reflection
  1. The Full Moon in Leo is a time of completion and rebirth, bringing old things to an end to make way for new beginnings.
  2. Challenges and failures are opportunities for growth and learning, allowing us to reflect on what truly matters.
  3. Courage and creativity go hand in hand, requiring us to operate from a place of vulnerability and heart.

Tfw no gf

Egg Report • 1749 implied HN points • 07 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Self-reflection
  1. The importance of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique identity
  2. The struggle with societal norms and expectations, especially around relationships and success
  3. The internal conflict between personal desires and external pressures

Where is the I That Suffers?

The Trick Revealed • 726 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
📖 Philosophy Self-reflection
  1. The source of suffering can be found in physical sensations or emotions, like pain in the chest or feelings of regret. It's important to truly consider where our suffering resides.
  2. Instead of running away from feelings, we should confront them and understand that the past and future do not exist. Focusing on the present is crucial.
  3. When we experience suffering, it's vital to ask ourselves if we're trying to escape from it or if we're simply avoiding the truth of our own emotions.

New Year housekeeping and mental bric-a-brac

Disaffected Newsletter • 1019 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
📖 Philosophy Self-reflection
  1. Communication is key when you're having issues. If you don't tell someone exactly what the problem is, they might not be able to help you.
  2. Things can go wrong with automated systems, like emails ending up in spam folders. Always check there if you’re not getting messages.
  3. Personal growth can happen when you re-evaluate your past and beliefs. Sometimes, realizing things weren't what you thought can lead to big changes in how you see the world.

A Sadness That Holds Hope For Joy

The Recovering Academic • 1108 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. The author's experience in academia made him doubt his profession and himself, leading to a significant shift in his life.
  2. The transition out of academia was filled with sadness and nostalgia, but also led to new beginnings and hope for the future.
  3. The recovery process involved accepting personal truths, finding support in others with similar experiences, and rediscovering joy after difficult times.

Be It Resolved!

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2156 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Make time to appreciate the beautiful things around you every day. It can really lift your spirits and change your perspective.
  2. Focus on writing more deeply and ambitiously. Challenge yourself to explore new forms of writing you haven't tried before.
  3. Invest in your friendships by regularly reaching out and making plans. Being a good friend can bring joy to both you and those you care about.

#198: Trying to see something

Maybe Baby • 2172 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Over time, people in relationships can notice their differences more than their similarities. It's interesting how our perceptions shift as we get to know someone deeply.
  2. Our appreciation for what we have can fade into the background. It's important to regularly take a moment to recognize and be grateful for the good things in our lives.
  3. Creating or experiencing art can help us appreciate life more fully. It reminds us of sensations we've forgotten and can open our eyes to new feelings and perspectives.

Who did you expect to be?

Disaffected Newsletter • 1418 implied HN points • 09 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Many people find they are different from who they thought they would be when they grew up. It's common to reflect on this as we age.
  2. Mornings can bring a fresh perspective and clarity about our lives and choices. Sometimes, thoughts come to us clearly before we get distracted.
  3. It can be surprising to realize we might have become the person we would have previously judged or disliked. This can lead to interesting self-reflection.

Our bodies, themselves

the process • 923 implied HN points • 16 Apr 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. Questioning the reliance on technology to validate our bodily experiences
  2. Reflecting on the importance of physical presence for a sense of self and memory
  3. Exploring the connection between dancing, human interaction, and self-discovery

Never stop never stopping

Austin Kleon • 1818 implied HN points • 14 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Self-reflection
  1. Creativity thrives on routine; small consistent actions can lead to big results over time.
  2. Feeling overwhelmed can make you consider giving up, but finding a way to keep going can lead to surprising solutions.
  3. Sharing experiences and practices with others can reinforce the value of persistence in creative work.

the wince

bookbear express • 1095 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. The 'wince' is a feeling we get when we're avoiding things we actually want to do. It's a sign that we care about those things, even if they seem hard or unpleasant.
  2. Recognizing your wince can help you make better choices and create healthy habits. It’s important to figure out whether you should push through the discomfort or let something go.
  3. Everyone experiences fear of hardship, but noticing and facing your wince can lead to personal growth. It helps us move towards what truly matters in our lives.

Is Dry January a Good Idea?

Are You Okay? • 1078 implied HN points • 03 Jan 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-reflection
  1. Alcohol use can have negative effects on our bodies and minds, even if it seems pleasurable in the moment.
  2. The appropriate amount of alcohol to drink varies for each person, and self-awareness is crucial in evaluating alcohol consumption.
  3. Identifying and addressing the underlying reasons for drinking, such as uncomfortable emotions or bodily sensations, is important to develop healthier habits.

You Can't Win Them All

Between a Rock and a Card Place • 358 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Self-reflection
  1. Success is not always about winning or creating hits, but about the quality and impact of the work you do.
  2. Don't let pressure hinder your creativity; approach tasks with curiosity and a beginner's mindset.
  3. Embrace that not every project will be a success, as outcomes are often beyond your control, so focus on creating meaningful work instead.