AUGUST Newsletter                                                                                                 Issue #50

Hi bb :) :) :) :) 

 

It's Monday morning and you're reading this, which means a few really great things: first off, you're alive! Talk about a gift. You've got fresh new start to a beautiful week full of possibilities and another shot at building whatever it is you're working to create and become. Lean into the adventure, see everything - and everyone - as opportunities for growth and be kind to yourself and others. 

 

Growing in community is wildly important to me. I'm so grateful to be connected and I

hope what follows inspires you on your path and encourages you to see the boundless potential ahead with clarity mind and an openness of heart. Please always feel free to reach out for absolutely any reason. 

 

I know we all think that were independent, autonomous beings who make decisions based on our own personal preferences, values and beliefs. Especially later in life, we tend to hold this very romantic idea that we've carefully and consciously formed our unique identities and lives above the influence of others. But no matter how self-aware and evolved we may believe ourselves to be, our lives, opinions and behaviors will always exist in relation to those around us. Accurately understanding the breadth of how others affect our behavior is incredibly complicated and nuanced because we can't see, feel or measure its effects in realtime. This book brilliantly explores the science of social influence, while offering practical tools and advice to better understand the forces at play so we can best harness their power. Heeding Berger's advice, we will learn to direct and shape our own influence, while attenuating and selectively mitigating the influence that others inevitably have on us. 

No doubt, our phones are incredible tools that open our day-to-day lives and worlds to endless potential and possibility. On the flip side, the tiny computers that incessantly live within arms reach of our person are also stealthy robbers of time, attention, productivity, presence and peace. Since we can't (and let's be honest, won't) realistically release them full on, it's important to establish parameters with which to protect both our heads and out hearts. This article offers thoughtful and smart commentary, as well as practical tools for rebuttal. 

 

P.S since writing this, I've impulsively reached to pick up my phone for absolutely no purpose or reason whatsoever. I definitely ain't proud to admit that but am choosing to see it as an important reflection, wake-up call and lesson. A prime example of turning towards growth (read: away from shame), when you're hit in the face with something that needs to change. 

We all do things to make ourselves feel better. We impulsively reach for coping mechanisms and tools to soften feelings of anxiety, stress and discomfort. In the moment, these actions, however seemingly small and insignificant, become automated habits. Repeatedly called upon day in and day out, these outlets which offer instant (yet temporary) relief, make us dependent on their continued use. Moreover, with time they weaken our ability to withstand negative thoughts, feeling and emotions. Procrastination, alcohol consumption and emotional eating, among many other outlets “work” in the sense that they effectively bring relief and comfort. But here’s the kicker we all love to forget: their success is provisional. Linked below is a very short podcast that aims to offer a deeper, more honest understanding of how we cope today and whether or not our coping systems are beneficial long-term.

Bible; I made this 4 times last week and though they were all good, the last time I really nailed it. This is a great option for anyone who is smoothie-averse, over oats or just wants another protein powder recipe to throw in the mix. Full disclosure, my microwave is absolute sh*t, so my strongly suggested recommendation is to bake this and never look back. You may have a better microwave than I and so you may be tempted but I urge you to resist. Those versions were meh and this recipe is level 1 easy so take the extra 2 seconds to preheat the oven and read a book or something till it's ready. 

I love my kindle and read every night before bed so it was only a matter of time before I got a blue light screen protector. Even though I throw it on dark mode, I literally fall asleep with this thing in my hand so I figured why not? I can't honestly say that I notice a difference because as I just mentioned, I fall asleep like this but it's one of those things I'm willing to just believe through common sense and trust that having it is better than not. Either way, reading before bed is a total win so this is just like… icing. 

However you found yourself here, I am so incredibly grateful. May we all remain hungry, curious and humbl on our individual journeys. May we lead with love and by example, today, tomorrow and always. 

 

If you want to learn more about me, my work or the content of this newsletter, please don't hesitate to reach out via email at molly@humblhabits.com or on Instagram @humblhabits.