#personal-growth

#personal-growth

I've often written on this blog about the complicated connection between money, purpose, and happiness. Some studies suggest that income relates to happiness up to a point, but the most enduring research tells a different story. The Harvard Adult Development Study, which has tracked participants for over 80 years, concludes that personal connections-not money-are the true key to fulfillment. Still, the question remains: Can we spend our way to happiness?

"Time is a thief." I learned this phrase in elementary school. It was regularly uttered by an administrator who, on the first day of school, would wistfully greet the student body, marveling at how much each child had grown over the summer. As a 10-year-old kid, I didn't put much stock into the musings of a middle-aged vice principal. Decades later, however, I better understand and appreciate the sentiment of her words.

Joy has the unique potential, compared with happiness, to foster well-being derived from living in alignment with one’s values, purpose, and personal growth.

"When it comes to others, I see light and love. I see confusion and fear behind their misguided actions. I see mistakes as learning opportunities."

Traveling alone in foreign countries offers unique experiences, but also challenges. It's an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, and moments of introspection.

Being too rigid or stubborn can sometimes get in the way of people doing what's in their own best interests. These individuals can use 'trust but verify' systems for adopting advice without losing autonomy.

Scientific American tells us that "inspiration, creativity [and] discovery all come from a place of uncertainty. When we admit 'I don't know,' we open ourselves to explore possibilities."

Gail Galusha experienced significant life events, including a car accident and family losses, prompting her to reassess her career and prioritize her family.

"You don't have to feel guilty for cutting someone off to protect yourself. Sometimes estranging someone is the healthiest thing you can do. It was for me."

Wholeness is not formed by cutting off a portion of one's being, but by integration of the contraries. - Carl Jung

Fabinho reflects on the loss of his friend Diogo Jota, realizing how quickly life can change. He emphasizes the fragility of existence and cherishes meaningful moments.

"I've worked in insurance, home improvement sales, and now construction. Every step taught me something I still use today."

Eleanor emphasizes that carefully concealing intelligence for the sake of politeness can actually be patronizing, while revealing it authentically does not assert hierarchy.

As a young lawyer in the early aughts, my first months as an in-house general counsel were chaotic. The previous counsel had left abruptly weeks before I arrived, and there was no one to fill me in on the multitude of open cases and ongoing projects.