This episode is a personal one. Inspired by a powerful quote from Marcus Aurelius, I reflect on the tension between gratitude and attachment—how easily I get swept up in what’s missing instead of appreciating what I already have. He reminds us not just to count our blessings, but to consider how much we'd long for them if they were suddenly gone.
Lately, I’ve struggled with negativity and a tendency to see my habits, progress, and even relationships through a lens of regret. Turning 30 has only made those thoughts louder. I’ve been thinking a lot about where I am in life, where I thought I’d be, and all the ways I’ve fallen short. But amidst the frustration and self-doubt, I’m learning that practicing gratitude—genuinely, without clinging—isn’t about ignoring what’s wrong. It’s about seeing what’s still right.
In this episode, I talk about how I've been trying to build better habits, work through my emotional setbacks, and find ways to anchor myself in the present—even if it’s just by enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, keeping up with meditation, or rowing through a favorite anime. It’s not perfect, but it’s something. And maybe that’s enough to start turning things around.
If you've been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in a cycle of negativity like I have, I hope this episode reminds you that growth doesn’t require perfection—it just asks for honesty, consistency, and a little bit of hope.
Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!
Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books
Please if you enjoy this content checkout Ryan's work
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