MindSnack Ep. 20

Episode 20 is here, and we’re only getting started. Lets get started.

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Snack Shelf

🧠 Avoid Bad Decisions
Ever feel stuck making tough choices? Here’s the key: focus on what not to do. Bad decisions come from avoiding reality, rushing, or ignoring feedback. Next time you’re at a crossroads, pause and ask, "What am I avoiding?" This shift saves time, energy, and leads to smarter decisions.

Full article: Avoid Bad Decisions

🧠 Master Your Focus
In a world of constant distractions, staying present is your superpower. Mindfulness helps you spot wandering thoughts and snap back to focus. 🧘‍♂️ Build discipline by pushing through distractions—finish your work before checking your phone! During virtual meetings, engage your body by standing or taking notes to boost your attention. Master this, and watch your productivity soar. 🚀

Full article: Train Your Brain to Be Present

Here’s an expanded Snack Shelf with the four steps described:

💪 Rethink Resilience
Life’s full of setbacks, but resilience is your superpower. It’s not something you’re born with—it’s a skill you can develop. Here’s how:

1. Respond: When change hits, don’t freeze. Embrace it. Take action and adjust to the new reality. 💡

2. Restore: Check in with yourself. Build back what’s been lost by leaning on your support network and practicing self-care. 🤝

3. Rebuild: After a setback, set new goals and keep moving forward. Celebrate your small wins to regain momentum. 🔨

4. Reflect: Learn from the experience. Use it to grow and strengthen your mindset for the next challenge. 📖

Full article: Rethinking Resilience

🔦 What Is Self-Gaslighting?
Self-gaslighting is when we pick up the doubts and dismissals from others and turn them inward, making us question our own feelings and reality. It sounds like, “Maybe it wasn’t that bad” or “I’m just being too sensitive.” This can leave us feeling broken and unworthy. The key to overcoming it is recognizing that these doubts aren’t yours to own. Respond to your emotions with compassion, not criticism. You deserve validation, support, and healing. 💡

Want to dive deeper? Check out the full article: What Is Self-Gaslighting?

Wisdom Bite

🔑 Lesson: The Power of Knowing Your "Why"

When you set goals based on external pressures, it often feels like you're constantly pushing a heavy boulder uphill. The drive isn't coming from within, making progress harder, and setbacks feel more discouraging. You might reach the goal, but the journey feels draining.

However, when you set goals based on your "why"—your internal motivation and purpose—the path feels more natural. It’s as though you're being pulled forward, not by force, but by a clear sense of purpose. The obstacles don’t feel as overwhelming because your "why" gives you the fuel to keep going.

With that said. If you’re feeling unmotivated, evaluate why you have the goals you have. If you set them based on external pressures, it may be why.

Health Corner

📱 Social Media: Potato Chips or Heroin? The Mental Health Debate
In 2017, psychologist Jean Twenge argued that smartphones and social media were devastating to teens' mental health. She linked the rise in anxiety, loneliness, and depression to the launch of the iPhone and social media apps. Other experts, however, like Pete Etchells, caution that this may be an overreaction, likening social media’s harm to potato chips, not heroin. Both sides agree—mental health is complex, and there are no easy answers.

Rather than panic, experts suggest we treat social media like an ecosystem: What triggers vulnerabilities? How can we promote creativity and connection? The conversation continues, but one thing is clear—finding balance is key. 🌱

Full article: Social Media and Mental Health Debate

🌱 Want to Live Longer? Change Your Mind About Aging
Studies show that your mindset about aging can significantly impact your lifespan. Research found that those who hold a positive view of aging can live 7.5 years longer than those with a negative outlook. It’s not about anti-aging products or extreme diets—it’s about changing how you see growing older.

Adopting a positive mindset helps you stay active, set goals, and find purpose, no matter your age. Role models like Laura Ingalls Wilder, who published her first book at 65, remind us that life after youth is full of possibilities. The way you think about aging can truly shape how long and well you live.

Full article: Live Longer by Changing Your Mind About Aging

🏃 How to Enjoy Running and Actually Look Forward to It
Running can be a liberating and meditative experience, offering both physical and mental health benefits like boosting cognitive function and stress regulation. However, if you’re new or returning to running, it can feel uncomfortable at first. Don’t worry—there are ways to push through and enjoy it!

1. Challenge limiting beliefs: Drop thoughts like “I’m too old” or “I’ll never be a runner.” Focus on what running can add to your life.

2. Set realistic goals: Start small, like running around the block or completing a 1K, and gradually work up to longer distances.

3. Use distractions: Listen to music, chat with a partner, or focus on the scenery to help manage physical discomfort.

4. Manage your pace: Beginners often start too fast. Slow down and aim for a conversational pace to build stamina.

5. Motivate yourself: Use positive self-talk to push through tough moments, and focus on small wins to keep your spirits high.

Full article: How to Enjoy Running

Quote Of The Day

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." — Albert Schweitzer