Handle Awkward Conversations Like A Pro
Article Round-Up: 11.17.24
Enjoy this week’s curated round-up of articles, videos, and more from the web to help you live a healthier, happier life.
Featured Thoughts:
Handle Awkward Conversations Like A Pro
Takeaway: In previous content I’ve talked about the concept of “The Paradox of Insecurity.” This means the more we focus on hiding our insecurities, the more obvious they become to others around us.
Only by accepting our insecurities do they get stripped of their power.
It reminds me of the final scene in the movie, 8-Mile. Eminem is rap battling in the epic conclusion of the film.
Eminem spends his entire freestyle self-deprecating everything bad about himself. Then finishes with the final line:
“Here, tell these people something they don't know about me.” [mic drop]
The whole point of a rap battle is to trash talk your opponent. Because Eminem had already said everything that could be said about himself, he left his opponent with nothing original or witty to say.
It turns out, if a conversation is feeling awkward, trying to hide that fact only makes matters worse.
Instead, calling out and owning the awkwardness can alleviate the stress from everyone. A moment of vulnerability creates a moment of connection.
Published This Week:
Takeaway: Reactive eating—just grabbing whatever’s available when hunger strikes—puts you at the mercy of convenience and cravings.
By planning meals ahead and keeping healthy options close, you stay in control and set yourself up for consistent progress.
In this article, I share a few strategies to be more of a “proactive” eater.
The Dopamine Epidemic: How Society Failed To Think Long Term
Takeaway: An important concept from the author below. (Quoted)
Short-term gratification – or cheap dopamine – leads to entropy.
Long-term gratification – or earned dopamine – leads to centropy.
Entropy, for what we're concerned with, is the gradual decline into chaos, uncertainty, and disorder. Think: anxiety, overwhelm, and that inescapable bubble of negative thoughts that seems to only get worse and worse because we can't make sense of the world anymore, usually due to dwelling on the surface for too long.
Centropy, or reversing entropy, is the upward battle we are all facing as humans. It is maintaining, creating, or improving order and certainty. Think: how challenge leads to fulfillment, flow, and a sense of purpose or control over your life.
Just For Fun:
Takeaway: Honeycrisp are the GOAT. (And Granny Smith are only good for caramel apples.)
P.S. Some of the commentary is hilarious, but could be found offensive. Reader discretion advised.
Takeaway: Jon Batiste reimagines Beethoven classics. Impressive.
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