A Tale of Two Doctors
Article Round-Up: 2.9.25
Enjoy this week’s articles, videos, and more from the web to help you live a healthier, happier life.
Featured Thoughts:
The Delicate Balance
“Success is being excited to go to work and being excited to come home.” - Will Ahmed
I attended a journaling group hosted by a friend this week. During this small gathering, we took turns talking about our writing over the years and the purpose our individual journaling practices served in our life.
One young guy, Paul, shared a story of traveling down to Costa Rica for a surf trip. when he got there, he learned the gentleman in the hotel room next to him was a surgeon there on vacation. They spent the whole week surfing together. This inspired the young pupil, who was coincidentally in the process of applying to medical schools and trying to decide what his future would look like.
Compare this story to two slightly different ones:
The first is of another doctor. This doctor spent all of their time introducing HIV/AIDS treatments in Africa. He built clinics and taught lectures to the local medical providers. He returned to his practice in the states just long enough to fund these projects. His entire life was dedicated to this mission. He died relatively young, unexpectedly, without any chance to enjoy other interests.
The second story is of an old friend of mine. His life has been the opposite. He returns home to work for six months of the year, saving every penny he can. For the remaining six months, he takes his savings and travels to a new country. I can only imagine the experiences he’s had, but his entire life has been joy without purpose. And he’s starting to notice something missing.
Paul was inspired by the doctor he met in Costa Rica because the doctor highlighted an important truth:
We should strive to design a life that is both purposeful and enjoyable. A delicate balance of giving something to the world and taking something for ourselves.
Published This Week:
Why Pasta In Italy Feels Different
Takeaway: People swear pasta in Italy feels different—lighter, easier to digest—but it’s not just the pasta itself. The real difference comes from lifestyle habits: more movement, smaller portions, and being present instead of mindlessly eating.
The good news? You don’t have to fly to Italy to feel better—you can start adopting those habits right where you are.
The Beginner’s Guide To Building an Emergency Fund
Takeaway: 37% of adults in the U.S. couldn’t afford a $400 emergency expense. 21% have no savings at all. I am a firm believer that one of the best ways to build peace of mind and lower chronic stress is to have some money put away that you pretend isn’t yours.
This article can help get you started.
P.S. This is by no means financial advice, but if you’re risk-averse like me with your money, consider opening a high-yield savings account for this emergency fund. Earn 3-5% interest while it sits there. It’s not a lot, but better to earn something for parking your money than the $0 you’ll get in a checking account.
Takeaway: Some of my favorites below.
If you think something nice about somebody, tell them.
Every now and then, whether it’s coffee, a drink, or dinner, pick up the tab for a friend.
Don’t keep score with your friends. Transactional relationships are inherently designed to find an equal exchange of value. The beauty in friendship is that the value can’t be defined.
Just For Fun:
The Best Nighttime Experiences Around The World
Takeaway: Don’t lie, you like to be in bed by 9pm. Then again, there’s something about traveling that can turn you into a different person. You might power through to experience one of these nighttime adventures.
P.S. If you or someone you know is transitioning off of weight loss medication (for one reason or another) and afraid of the weight coming back on, then check out the online community we’re building to specifically support that transition.