Let seasons govern some pleasures

Let seasons govern some pleasures. Resist constant availability. Wait for certain foods, temperatures, or experiences, and then indulge fully when they arrive.

Make rest a non-negotiable priority.

Make rest a non-negotiable priority. Treat rest as something you actively protect, not what’s left over after everything else. Review your calendar and deliberately block time for high-quality rest. If no space exists, decide what you can reduce, delegate, or redesign. That could mean coordinating childcare, renegotiating responsibilities with a partner, or letting go of lower-value commitments.

Choose to be philosophical

Choose to be philosophical. Take the long view. There have always been bad leaders, chaotic periods, and moments when it felt like the world was coming apart. That’s what living through history looks like. Chaos isn’t an exception—it’s the pattern. You don’t get to choose whether you live in turbulent times, but you do get to choose how you meet them. Focus on what you can control, do your work, and refuse to be broken by forces beyond your power.

Do difficult things on purpose

Do difficult things on purpose. Train your body and mind to handle discomfort. When you’re stronger and more disciplined, you’re calmer, kinder, and harder to shake.

Refuse to let cruelty turn you cruel

Refuse to let cruelty turn you cruel. Refuse to let cruelty harden you, stupidity embitter you, or outrage reshape your character. The best revenge is not becoming like them.

Ease the burden you can reach

Help what’s right in front of you. Big problems don’t excuse small inaction. Ease the burden you can reach. Help the person you can help. Small acts still matter.

Don’t have an opinion about everything

Don’t have an opinion about everything. You don’t need to judge every preference, habit, or headline. Fewer opinions mean less misery and more energy for what counts.