The hottest Self-reflection Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Literature Topics
Writerly Things with Brooke Warner 2400 implied HN points 20 Oct 24
  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.
Experimental History 40381 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  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.
Both Are True 102 implied HN points 17 Jun 25
  1. Sometimes, when reaching out, we can feel anxious if we don't get the responses we expect. It's normal to worry about how others perceive us.
  2. Sending a follow-up message can be scary, but it can also be an opportunity to express yourself honestly. You might be surprised by how good it feels.
  3. Being open about our imperfections can help reduce feelings of shame. It's better to be genuine than to strive for a perfect image.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2156 implied HN points 31 Dec 24
  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.
bookbear express 1095 implied HN points 07 Jan 25
  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.
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Both Are True 111 implied HN points 10 Jun 25
  1. People often worry that others hate them, but they might actually be feeling the same insecurity. It's a common cycle of doubt.
  2. Instead of assuming someone dislikes you, it's better to recognize that they might be preoccupied with their own fears and feelings.
  3. Understanding that both sides might be feeling misunderstood can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and improve relationships.
Sasha's 'Newsletter' 4473 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  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.
Residual Thoughts 99 implied HN points 18 Oct 24
  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.
Residual Thoughts 198 implied HN points 09 Oct 24
  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.
Desk Notes by Charles Schifano 121 implied HN points 31 Jan 25
  1. Dreams can feel more real than waking life, leading us to question what reality truly is. Sometimes, the experiences we have in dreams seem more intense and immediate than our daily experiences.
  2. The stories we tell about our past shape how we see ourselves. When we write or talk about our memories, we change those memories and how we understand our lives.
  3. Our perceptions of reality can often be misleading. It's important to stay open to new ways of seeing things and not be locked into one view of life.
Anima Mundi 61 implied HN points 04 Jun 25
  1. Letting go doesn't mean losing everything; some things actually stay with us. It's not about being empty, but about retaining roots of experiences we cherish.
  2. After a goodbye or change, we often find quiet gifts inside us that help us grow stronger. These gifts are not always obvious, but they influence who we become.
  3. It's important to recognize that you are never truly empty after letting go; you are in a state of becoming. Embrace this journey rather than starting over.
Sensible Medicine 4088 implied HN points 09 Feb 24
  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.
Thái | Hacker | Kỹ sư tin tặc 3914 implied HN points 25 Jan 24
  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.
Tessa Fights Robots 10 implied HN points 13 Jun 25
  1. People often act out of anger when they feel stressed and helpless. It’s important to stay calm and think things through instead.
  2. Different perspectives can all hold some truth, and yelling won’t resolve disagreements. Taking a moment to breathe and reflect can help us find common ground.
  3. Our emotions can sometimes be influenced by outside sources. Understanding this can help us take control of our feelings and not let anyone manipulate us.
Ladyparts 1058 implied HN points 30 May 24
  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.
Maybe Baby 2172 implied HN points 02 Dec 24
  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.
Square Circle 3 implied HN points 20 Jun 25
  1. Being overly obsessed with spirituality can lead to an imbalance in your life. It's important to keep a healthy perspective and not let it consume all your attention.
  2. Spirituality should be approached with a sense of balance, not just as an academic or nerdy pursuit. Finding real-world connections can enhance your spiritual journey.
  3. It's okay to step away from spiritual obsessiveness and focus on being present in the world. Real growth often comes from being firmly grounded in everyday life.
Subtle Digressions 599 implied HN points 01 Jun 24
  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.
The Abbey of Misrule 641 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. When the power goes out, life changes a lot. People talk more and do things differently without all the gadgets.
  2. Going without electricity made one family reflect on what they gained and lost with technology. It brought a calm, slower pace to their lives.
  3. Experiencing silence can reveal new rhythms in life, making people appreciate simple moments like reading books and sitting by the fire.
Brain Pizza 662 implied HN points 16 Jan 25
  1. Understanding how your brain works helps you deal with daily problems better. This means recognizing your own thinking patterns can improve your decision-making.
  2. By knowing common biases and habits, you can improve how you think and behave. This helps you make better choices and reach your goals more effectively.
  3. Small changes in your thinking can lead to big improvements in life. Using these insights helps you shape your actions and make smarter decisions daily.
MILLER’S BOOK REVIEW 📚 1159 implied HN points 10 Feb 24
  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.
Jeff Giesea 758 implied HN points 09 Apr 24
  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.
Austin Kleon 3437 implied HN points 25 Apr 23
  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.
Disaffected Newsletter 1019 implied HN points 02 Jan 24
  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.
The Recovering Academic 1108 implied HN points 12 Dec 23
  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.