Discomfort Archives

a split-screen image: on one side, a hunched-over grumpy figure under a dark cloud, watching doom-laden news on TV; on the other, a vibrant, smiling individual surrounded by books, art supplies, and a laptop—engaged, curious, and hopeful. A plant bridges the sides, thriving on the optimistic side.

The Courage to Be an Optimist – 7 Takeaways No. 243

How to think. Have a good day. Radical optimism. Embracing discomfort. AI fluency. Imposters within. Who’s an asshole?

A 19th century British newspaper-style woodcut image depicting two people awkwardly approaching each other as if unsure whether to hug.

Hug, Kiss, Or Shake Hands – 7 Takeaways No. 197

Awkward! Story telling is everywhere. Parenting. Stop waiting. Chances are astronomically small. Just do something. Acting in real life.

Curiosity Is Life’s Superpower – 7 Takeaways No. 186

Making the effort. What’s real? Optimism in spite of it all. Curious? Making friends. Get off the couch. Fallacies are seductive.

A person standing in the doorway of a cozy, well-lit room, filled with books and an art easel, representing comfort and familiarity. The door is open, and through it, we see a vast, inviting landscape bathed in the warm light of a setting sun. This landscape features rolling hills, a winding path leading into the distance, and perhaps a few adventurous items like a typewriter and a pair of running shoes placed on the path, symbolizing new opportunities and adventures. The person is silhouetted against the bright outside, hesitating but curious, on the brink of stepping out to explore the unknown.

Your Comfort Zone Is Not Your Friend – 7 Takeaways No. 165

The tech behind podcasts (and this newsletter), awe, self-improvement, AI & phishing, evidence (real or otherwise), metaphors, and getting out of your comfort zone.