The New Crop: Issue #99
from "either/or" to "both/and" + "the hedgehog's dilemma: how to not be alone"
What’s in this issue:
💭 Thought: From “either/or” to “both/and” — a re-frame for binary decisions
😆 Today’s Laugh
This is more adorable than funny, but hope you enjoy none the less. :)
💭 Today’s Thought
Decisions that appear binary often aren’t.
The next time you’re deciding between two alternatives, take a few minutes to ask yourself these two questions:
What would doing/choosing both look like?
What’s a third option?
Pushing beyond the first — and usually most familiar — two choices often reveals entirely new, creative, and inspiring possibilities. Have fun exploring!
🖊️ Today’s Reflection
If you’re new to journaling, I highly encourage you to read Nancy Adler’s article: Want to be an outstanding leader? Keep a journal.
This week, find a quiet place and gift yourself 10 minutes to reflect on any of these prompts (or invent your own!):
What’s a time in your life when someone saw something in you that you hadn’t yet recognized in yourself? Write about it.
Take a peek out your nearest window for a couple of minutes — what do you see, hear, and feel?
📚 Today’s Read
The Hedgehog’s Dilemma: How to Not Be Alone
The hedgehog’s dilemma: humans can’t get closer to one another without risking harming each other, leading to tentative or distant relationships.
To overcome our urge to protect ourselves and remain distant, Brenna Lee advocates for 1) assuming everyone you meet will like you until proven otherwise, 2) reaching out to friends and loved ones first (and not caring if they don’t reciprocate), and 3) showing more gratitude and affection towards others. Read more!
See you next week!
xo,
Anne