It’s not about you, either — Margaret Klein Salamon has some advice for you: Use your imagination to explore what it will feel like while civilization is collapsing: No water coming from the tap; not knowing whether to stay or go; mass starvations and migrations growing. She has some more advice: Stop hiding from the news…

It’s not that complicated. — It’s 1 am, maybe later. I’m tired, but I feel like I should be doing something. I feel like I haven’t earned the right to sleep. Maybe if I get a head start on tomorrow’s goals, I’ll finally feel like I deserve it. “I’ll relax later,” I say. Maybe you…

Does anyone? — “Your intern is here.” The administrative assistant hangs up the phone and gives me directions to the classroom. She says something like, “Enjoy your first day teaching.” Halfway down the hall, I’m briefly mistaken for a student who’s supposed to be in class. It doesn’t matter how I dress. It…

They’re not what you think. — Recently I found myself asking this question: “Why aren’t you more successful?” Everyone defines success in their own way, but most definitions have a few things in common. They share a degree of recognition and financial independence. Even if they talk about meaning and purpose, most of these people still…

From a survivor. — I’ve met some fragile people over the years. One time a guy confessed a traumatic experience to me. His prom date wore the wrong color dress. His friends took him to a restaurant he didn’t like. His food took too long to come out. I know we’re supposed to say…

I’m not impressed with the articles trending now. — I have a few things to get off my chest. The quality and diversity of articles on this platform are starting to take a serious dive. It’s hurting my mental health. Get a load of these vibes: It’s okay to dump your fat partner. They’re a loser. Rich people are…

For some of us, it works. — “Honestly, I couldn’t stand you at first.” I’ve heard that a few times, usually from people I barely knew. A while back, there was this one woman who kept thanking me for a favor I did. It felt weird. I asked her what was up. At last, she dropped her…

I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. — A few days ago, a 2-year-old died on the floor of a hospital. The ER was full. There were no beds or stretchers. A nurse shared a video about it. She describes what it’s like to watch a toddler die, and what it’s like to hear the parents. She says…

It’s not as hard as you think. — Imagine you’re an Asian woman. I know that’s a weird way to start off an article about making tons of money. Work with me here. Okay, so… You’re an Asian woman. You’re also an assistant professor of medicine, and a highly respected writer. You get invited as a keynote speaker…