Just a normal octopus
Helping Friendly Newsletter, 04.30.21
GM! ☕️
Here’s what you’ll find in today’s email:
Just a normal octopus
How to work less
Why to work less
Grief support
Tiny book reviews
1. Just a normal octopus
No one can do or hold all the things. You are not alone in this. The fact does not make you weak. It does not mean you have failed. You are just a normal octopus, human. 🐙
2. How to work less
I speak frequently with high achievers who are juggling way too much. If this sounds like you, rest assured—it’s normal. Relief is possible, but it will require some tough decisions.
3. Why to work less
The big idea is for you to discover sustaining ways to grow into and share your gifts. Intentionality around work is foundational. So is rest. However, these are privileges that not everyone enjoys. So, I invite you to connect your growth into broader streams of repair.
4. Grief support
With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day on the horizon, I’ve been thinking of everyone who will be missing a parent or parent-figure this year. (I see you.❤️) If you need it, here’s a good option for grief support and community during this stretch.
5. Tiny book reviews
My April booklist and micro-reviews are ready. This month I enjoyed a thought-provoking novel on freedom, Anne Lamott’s latest, a stunning collection of essays, and one fantasy romance. Less fun, but still helpful: a business title that unearthed an issue I’ve been avoiding.
Thank you for reading
This newsletter is a labor of love. 💌 If you would like to show your support, you can forward to a friend, venmo me a coffee, or engage my services. If you’re seeing it for the first time, you can access the archive or subscribe here.
Thank you to MC, JB, AB, CW, and FW for keeping me caffeinated this month. ☕️
Treasure chest
I bet you find a gem ➔ a love letter to self-medicators1 | what music can do during climate collapse | a truce for cancel culture? | anti-vaxx influencers are nothing new | imagining cities on green diets2 | the value of slow innovation | cows digging on cellos | I didn’t buy the screaming goat button, but this did happen👇🏼
Have a great weekend! I’ll see you again soon.
Jenny
Via Nadia Bolz-Weber.
Via Mitch Anthony.