Meaning Over Milestones: My Life Philosophy

 

I do not have a recipe for life, but I have learned to choose balance, gratitude, and authenticity. That is what this text is about  a philosophy of life lived, not theorized.
An honest reflection on what it means to live with meaning, not just purpose. About quiet courage, the simplicity that brings peace, and the gratitude that turns every day into a beautiful lesson.

There are moments when life confronts us with questions harder than any exam: Why do I do what I do? What do I want from myself? Am I living or merely surviving?
You do not need a degree in philosophy to ask yourself these questions. I believe that every person, at some point, writes their own “philosophy of life”: not on paper, but in the way they live, in their daily choices, in how they love, forgive, or let go.

For me, a life philosophy is not a theory. It is a blend of what I have learned from mistakes, from silence, from people, and from stillness. It is a continuous search for balance  between giving and preserving myself, between hoping and accepting reality as it is.

 

On Simplicity and Meaning

For a long time, life had to be full of visible achievements: a respectable job, a clear plan, a secure direction. Only later did I understand that meaning is not measured in results, but in the calm that follows a day lived in harmony with yourself.

True simplicity does not mean having less: it means being content with what you have.
It is a pure form of freedom. When you stop comparing, when you no longer chase approval, when you learn to say, “thank you” instead of “I want more,” you begin to live differently. People start to matter more than possessions, moments more than plans, and the journey more than the destination.

Simplicity is a choice. And often, it is one of the hardest ones because it requires returning to yourself, without the noise of the world around you.

 

The Balance Between Heart and Mind

We have all faced this dilemma: should I choose with my heart or with my mind?
my philosophy of life lies somewhere in between. The heart gives meaning; reason gives direction. One without the other leads to extremes and extremes are exhausting.

I have learned that it is okay to feel deeply, but not to get lost in emotion. It is okay to analyse, but not to turn your life into an exercise in control.
Life, after all, is a dance between the two: passion and discernment, dreams and pragmatism.

True wisdom lies in knowing when to listen to your heart and when to let your mind take care of it.

 

The Strength to Move Forward

There is no philosophy of life without resilience.
To be able to move forward even after losing, to rise even when you no longer believe you can that is the essence of any genuine philosophy.

Some call it “inner strength,” others “faith.” I call it the power to rise in silence.
The courage to get up without noise, without proving anything.
The courage to rebuild yourself without announcing to the world that you are starting over.

I have discovered that every fall shapes you. It does not change you overnight, but it clarifies your priorities. It teaches you what truly matters, who stays, and what needs to be left behind.

 

On People and Their Lessons

The people we meet do not cross our paths by accident. Some teach us patience, other boundaries. Some show us how much we can love, and others how much we can endure.
Not everyone stays, but everyone leaves something behind.

My philosophy of life is not to judge people by how they leave, but to appreciate them for what they brought while they were here.

I believe in honest, not perfect relationships. In friendships that last without grand words. In love that does not need explaining, only feeling.
I do not believe in perfection, I believe in authenticity. In people who own their mistakes, who say “I’m sorry,” but also “I can’t right now.”

 

Time: The Most Honest Teacher

As time goes by, you realize it is the best teacher.
It shows you who you are when everything quiets down. It shows you what is real and what’s just noise.

Time refines your patience and clears your priorities. It helps you understand that life is not a race, it is a journey.

When you learn not to rush things, you begin to see clearly. Sometimes you just need to let things settle on their own, because life has a strange but precise way of putting everything in order at the right moment.

 

Gratitude as a Way of Living

Perhaps the simplest yet deepest form of philosophy is gratitude.
Not the kind spoken in words, but the kind lived every day in the way you look, breathe, and listen.

To wake up and say: “I have a new day. I can try again.”
To see beauty in the insignificant things in your morning coffee, in a smile.
When you nurture gratitude, you do not feel your lacks the same way. Not because they disappear, but because you learn to see what you already have.

 

Living with Meaning, Not Just Purpose

Some people live to check off goals. Others to collect experiences. I choose to live with meaning.

Meaning is not found in a job, a relationship, or in the applause of others. Meaning lives within you in the way you choose to react, in how you turn each day into an opportunity, not an obligation.

When you live with meaning, you are no longer defined by what you have, but by who you are.
You start to build a life that does not just look good on the outside but feels right on the inside.

 

Instead of a Conclusion: A Promise to Yourself

I do not know if there is a recipe for a good life. But I know there are choices that make it beautiful:
To stay curious.
To never stop learning.
To say “thank you” more often.
To choose peace over pride.
To remember that even silence is a form of success.

This is, in the end, my philosophy of life:
To live simply, authentically, and with gratitude knowing that everything changes, yet everything has meaning.

5 Things Psychologically Strong People Always Do

 

Over the years, through personal experience and the people I have met, I have noticed that certain behaviours and ways of thinking set apart those who manage to navigate life with balance, despite pressures and challenges. It is not about luck, genes, or favourable circumstances. It is about conscious choices, simple but consistent practices.

If you want to become psychologically stronger, manage stress without feeling overwhelmed, and gain more clarity in your life, here are five things psychologically strong people always do, which I have also applied in my own life.

 

1. They know and manage their emotions

Psychologically strong people do not try to ignore or suppress what they feel. Instead, they learn to recognize their emotions, understand them, and manage them.

From my experience, the first step is to become aware of what you feel at every moment. It is easy to say, “I am angry” or “I am sad,” but strong people go further: they ask themselves why they feel this way and what real need lies behind the emotion.

For example, when I feel anxious before a presentation, I do not get stuck in negative thoughts. I try to identify the source of the anxiety: is it fear of judgment? Fear of failure? Then I find a concrete action: I rehearse the presentation, write down key points, or practice breathing exercises.

What I have noticed is that recognizing emotions and approaching them with curiosity, rather than judgment, reduces their power to control our lives.

Practical exercise:

• Every day, write down three main emotions you feel and what event triggered them.
• Ask yourself: “What real need is this emotion trying to communicate?”
• Find a small action that responds to this need.

 

2. They do not let the past define them

Strong people do not live in the past and do not allow old mistakes or wounds to dictate their present. I have learned that every painful experience can be transformed into a lesson if you view it honestly and without self-blame.

In my life, there were moments when I regretted decisions or lost relationships. What helped me become psychologically stronger was to consciously distance myself: acknowledge what happened, draw the necessary conclusions, and leave the past where it belongs.

It is not about forgetting or minimizing the pain, but about no longer allowing it to control your present. This mental freedom is essential for resilience.

Practical exercise:

• Write down a painful event from your past.
• Note what you learned from it and how it helped you grow.
• Burning, deleting, or simply keeping the list for reflection can be therapeutic.

 

3. They set clear boundaries

Psychologically strong people know they cannot please everyone and do not waste their energy on people or situations that do not respect them or drain their resources.

From my experience, setting boundaries was one of the hardest lessons. It is easy to say “yes” out of a desire not to hurt someone or to be accepted. But in the long term, lack of boundaries brings frustration, exhaustion, and resentment.

Strong people say “no” without guilt when necessary and explain firmly, yet politely, why they refuse. Boundaries are not walls but shields that protect their emotional energy and clarity in decision-making.

Practical exercise:

• Identify a recent situation where you said “yes” even though you wanted to say “no.”
• Reformulate your response as you would say it today, with respect and firmness.
• Practice this phrasing in a less stressful situation to train your emotional muscles.

 

4. They have routines and practices that support them

Psychological strength is not only mental but also physical. Resilient people take care of their body, sleep, nutrition, exercise, and moments of rest. This daily discipline supports clarity and the ability to cope with stress.

I discovered that my mornings changed radically when I established a simple routine: waking up at a fixed time, 10 minutes of mindful breathing, a short journal, and then an activity that energizes me. It is not magic; it is consistency.

Strong people know that these small habits accumulate and create a solid foundation for mental health.

Practical exercise:

• Choose a morning or evening routine that nourishes you mentally and physically.
• Apply it for 21 days without exceptions.
• Observe how your inner state and focus change.

 

5. They continuously learn and adapt

Resilience and psychological strength also come from curiosity and openness to change. Strong people do not cling to rigid beliefs or “I already know everything” attitudes. They seek information, experiment, and adjust constantly.

From my experience, every difficult challenge has been an opportunity to gain experience something new about myself or the world. This attitude prevents mental blocks and provides flexibility in the face of unexpected events.

Adaptation does not mean weakness; it means awareness: recognizing what does not work and changing the approach. Psychologically strong people are practical: they try, evaluate, adjust, and move forward.

Practical exercise:

• Identify a situation where you recently felt stuck.
• Ask yourself what lesson you can extract and what change you can apply immediately.
• Write down three concrete actions and evaluate them in the next week.

 

Final reflection

Psychological strength is not an innate talent. It is a daily choice, made up of small, conscious decisions that protect your emotions, clarity, and energy. People who develop it are not invulnerable, but they are balanced and able to face challenges without losing themselves.

If you want to apply these five principles, start with a single step today. Choose a practice, exercise it, and notice the changes in your emotional state and relationships with others.

 

Reflection questions

1. Which of these five practices seems the most difficult for you to apply and why?
2. How does the lack of clear boundaries affect your daily life?
3. What small but consistent habit could you introduce today to strengthen your psychological resilience?
4. How do you manage your emotions in stressful situations, and what could you improve?
5. How could you turn a recent failure into a valuable lesson?

 

3 Daily Habits to Reconnect With Yourself Before Burnout Hits

 Burnout doesn’t arrive overnight. It creeps in slowly—through small acts of neglect, when we ignore our needs, silence our emotions, or keep pushing ourselves to meet every demand. By the time we notice, the exhaustion feels overwhelming and recovery takes much longer.

The good news is that we don’t have to wait until burnout consumes us. As a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Psychological Counselor, I’ve seen how simple, intentional practices can help people reconnect with themselves and build resilience before reaching that breaking point. Small, consistent actions create a protective buffer for your emotional and mental well-being.

Here are three habits you can start today.

---

1. The Morning Check-In: A Five-Minute Self-Scan

Most people start their mornings already rushing—checking emails, scrolling social media, or mentally running through the to-do list. This sets the tone for disconnection.

Instead, begin your day with a self-scan. Sit quietly for a few minutes and ask yourself three simple questions:

• How does my body feel right now?

• What emotions are present?

• What do I need most today?

This practice helps you identify early signs of tension, stress, or fatigue before they escalate. It’s like taking your own emotional pulse. Clients who commit to this habit often realize they’re pushing themselves on “empty,” and that awareness alone shifts the way they move through the day.

---

2. The Midday Pause: Reclaiming Your Energy

By midday, most of us are running on autopilot. Meetings, deadlines, family needs—everything piles up. That’s exactly why inserting a pause is essential.

It doesn’t need to be long. Five to ten minutes of intentional rest can reset your nervous system. You might:

• Step outside and take slow, deep breaths.

• Close your eyes and visualize a calming place.

• Stretch your body and release accumulated tension.

This habit is less about relaxation and more about reconnection. You are reminding your body and mind that you matter, that you’re not just a machine to keep going. Over time, this small act prevents the build-up of chronic stress that leads to burnout.

---

3. The Evening Unload: Journaling for Release

At the end of the day, your mind often carries leftover thoughts—unfinished tasks, worries, or self-criticism. If you go to bed with this noise, your sleep suffers, and the stress compounds.

One of the most effective habits I teach is reflective journaling. Take 10 minutes to write down:

• What drained me today?

• What nourished me today?

• What do I want to let go of before I sleep?

This simple practice works like emotional hygiene. It clears the clutter and makes space for rest. Over time, it helps you see patterns—when you feel most depleted, what triggers your stress, and what genuinely supports your well-being.

---

Why These Habits Matter

Burnout prevention isn’t about dramatic lifestyle changes. It’s about weaving micro-moments of awareness and care into your daily life. When you consistently check in, pause, and release, you create a rhythm of self-connection that protects your energy and deepens your resilience.

These habits remind you that you are not only responsible for doing and achieving—you are also responsible for being. And being requires presence, compassion, and attention to yourself.

---

Questions for Reflection

• Which of these three habits feels most natural for me to start with today?

• What usually gets in the way of me pausing and checking in with myself?

• If I practiced just one of these habits consistently for the next week, how might my energy shift?

Want more tips straight to your inbox? Subscribe to my newsletter Journal of Mind → https://journalofmind.substack.com/subscribe

Managing Stress and the Need for Peace in the Face of Burnout

Daily stress, endless problems, and the feeling that no matter what you do, there's always something new draining your energy and deepening your fatigue – all these can become overwhelming for anyone. There are moments in life when we feel we've reached our limit, that we can't carry everything on our shoulders anymore, and that we need a change. But what can we do in such situations?

When Everything Seems Too Much

There are times when life feels like an endless series of problems. Some are inevitable – challenges at work, tensions in relationships, instability in personal life. Others come from unexpected places, from interactions that should be simple but, for various reasons, become sources of stress and frustration. Often, these stem from toxic environments – whether it's a workplace lacking respect and appreciation or a home where problems pile up and solutions seem impossible to find.

When each day becomes a new challenge, when peace becomes a luxury, and when any trivial demand turns into an unnecessary conflict, we begin to ask ourselves: how much longer can we endure? And, more importantly, what can we do to change this reality?

What Does Peace Mean and How Can We Regain It?

For many, peace doesn't just mean the absence of noise but an inner balance, a space where they feel safe, where they can breathe without the fear of a new obstacle. This can mean two essential things: a workplace where there is respect and appreciation and a home to return to with joy, where you feel it's a true refuge.

1. A Workplace with Respect and Appreciation

It's hard to feel motivated and maintain emotional balance when working in a toxic environment where you're not treated with respect.

A healthy work environment means more than a salary – it means feeling valued, knowing your efforts are recognized, and that daily interactions don't drain all your energy.

When work becomes a constant source of stress, it's important to consider the possibility of a change. Sometimes, actively seeking more suitable alternatives can bring more clarity and hope.

In some cases, even a small change in perspective can make a difference – perhaps there's a possibility for a new approach at your current job, or maybe it's time to explore new fields that bring you satisfaction and peace.

2. A Home That Offers Comfort and Safety

Home should be a refuge, not a source of stress. A residence where problems constantly accumulate, where interactions with landlords or neighbors are toxic, can become a heavy burden.

Moving isn't always an immediate option, but simply searching for alternatives or establishing a long-term plan can help regain a sense of control.

Sometimes, even creating a corner of peace in your current home can bring a change – a personal space where you can relax without the external pressure of daily problems.

It's important to consider the long-term impact – a stable and comfortable home can bring essential balance, reducing daily stress and providing the security you need.

How Do We Manage Stress Until Things Change?

As much as we'd like to solve everything at once, the reality is that big changes take time. However, even in the midst of chaos, there are small things that can make a difference:

• Setting Clear Boundaries – in toxic relationships, in energy-draining interactions, in tasks that don't deserve all the accumulated stress.

• Small Moments of Peace – a leisurely coffee, a walk, listening to a favorite song, a break from overwhelming thoughts.

• Finding Perspective – sometimes, it helps to know that what we're experiencing now isn't forever, that there are solutions, even if they're not immediate.

• Seeking Emotional Support – although it may seem difficult, having someone to talk to can make a difference. Support, whether from friends, family, or support groups, helps manage stress more easily.

• Appreciating Small Progress – even if big changes don't happen overnight, every small step counts. Recognizing your own efforts and adapting to new challenges are essential elements for maintaining balance.

Conclusion

When you feel you can't go on, it's a clear sign that something needs to change. Peace isn't a luxury but a necessity, and if its absence becomes overwhelming, it's time to take action. It can be a small step – a decision, a search, a plan – but any move toward a better future is a step in the right direction.

We don't have to remain prisoners of an environment that drains us. Life shouldn't be just about enduring but about truly living. And sometimes, the first change comes from realizing that we deserve more.

Emotional burden and stress can be overwhelming, but there are always solutions. It's important to give yourself time, allow yourself to make changes, and regain the balance you need.

Unlocking Potential: Strategies for Personal and Professional Growth in 2025

The beginning of a new year provides a fresh opportunity to set ambitious goals and take concrete steps toward personal and professional development. As we navigate through 2025, employing the right strategies can help unlock our full potential and thrive in an ever-changing world. Here are detailed steps to help you achieve significant growth this year.

1. Set Clear and Achievable Goals

Goals act as a roadmap, guiding your journey to success. To set effective goals:

• Use the SMART Framework: Ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

• Prioritize: Identify the most important goals by evaluating their impact on your personal and professional life.

• Break Them Down: Divide large goals into smaller, manageable tasks to maintain focus and track progress.

2. Cultivate a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and effort. To cultivate this mindset:

• Embrace Challenges: View obstacles as opportunities to learn and grow.

• Seek Feedback: Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for improvement.

• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and reward yourself for reaching milestones, no matter how small.

3. Enhance Your Skills

Investing in continuous learning is essential in today’s dynamic world. To stay ahead:

• Enroll in Courses: Platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer a variety of courses to expand your knowledge.

• Develop Soft Skills: Skills such as communication, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving are critical for professional success.

• Stay Updated: Follow industry trends and innovations to keep your expertise relevant.

4. Build Strong Relationships

Networking and meaningful connections are key drivers of personal and professional success. To strengthen relationships:

• Expand Your Network: Attend conferences, workshops, and social events to meet like-minded individuals.

• Nurture Existing Connections: Stay in touch with friends, colleagues, and mentors through regular communication.

• Provide Value: Be supportive and helpful within your network, fostering a culture of mutual growth.

5. Master Time Management

Efficient time management allows you to maximize productivity and achieve balance. Strategies include:

• Prioritize Tasks: Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to differentiate between urgent and important activities.

• Eliminate Distractions: Minimize interruptions by setting boundaries and creating a focused workspace.

• Adopt Productivity Techniques: Experiment with methods like the Pomodoro Technique or time-blocking to optimize your workflow.

6. Prioritize Well-Being

Sustainable growth depends on maintaining mental and physical health. To ensure well-being:

• Practice Self-Care: Incorporate activities such as meditation, exercise, and hobbies into your routine.

• Manage Stress: Use relaxation techniques and seek support when needed.

• Maintain Work-Life Balance: Set boundaries to ensure personal time and avoid burnout.

7. Leverage Technology

Technology can be a powerful ally in personal and professional growth. Consider:

• Productivity Apps: Tools like Notion, Trello, and Evernote can help you stay organized.

• Skill Development Platforms: Use apps like Duolingo for language learning or Codecademy for coding skills.

• Networking Tools: Platforms like LinkedIn enable you to connect with professionals and access valuable resources.

8. Embrace Adaptability

The ability to adapt is crucial in a fast-paced world. To become more adaptable:

• Keep an Open Mind: Be willing to explore new ideas and approaches.

• Develop Resilience: Learn to bounce back from setbacks with a positive perspective.

• Seek Continuous Improvement: Regularly evaluate and refine your strategies and habits.

9. Seek Mentorship

A mentor can provide guidance, support, and insights based on their experience. To find and collaborate with a mentor:

• Identify Potential Mentors: Look for individuals whose values and goals align with yours.

• Build a Relationship: Approach mentors with genuine interest and appreciation for their expertise.

• Act on Advice: Implement their guidance and share updates on your progress.

10. Reflect and Adjust

Regular self-reflection helps you evaluate progress and realign your actions. To reflect effectively:

• Keep a Journal: Document your thoughts, experiences, and lessons learned.

• Review Your Goals: Periodically assess your goals and adjust them if necessary.

• Celebrate Achievements: Take time to recognize and appreciate your accomplishments.

Final Thoughts

Unlocking your potential in 2025 requires a combination of strategic planning, continuous learning, and self-care. By implementing these strategies, you can build a fulfilling personal life and a successful professional career. Remember, growth is a journey, not a destination, and every step forward brings you closer to realizing your full potential.

From Knowledge to Transformation: Lessons from Carl Rogers' Thinking

I love how this quote captures the essence of education: "The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn... and change."

Carl Rogers, one of the most influential psychologists of the 20th century, offers us through this quote a profound perspective on the essence of education. His idea emphasizes that learning is not merely about acquiring information but involves a constant transformation of oneself through reflection and adaptation. In the following, we will explore the significance of this quote and provide concrete examples illustrating how it can manifest in everyday life.

Education as a Continuous Process

Education is not a one-time event or a stage that ends with graduating from school. It is a dynamic and ongoing process that requires adaptation to the constant changes in social, technological, and personal environments. Learning how to learn involves developing metacognitive skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-reflection.

For example, an engineer who graduated 20 years ago has witnessed their field rapidly transformed by artificial intelligence. Those who thrived were not the ones who relied solely on past knowledge but those who learned how to adapt through online courses, webinars, and practical experiments.

Change as an Integral Part of Growth

Being educated also means learning how to change. Change can be challenging, but it is essential for personal and professional growth. It takes courage to recognize that what we know or do today might not be relevant or effective tomorrow.

A notable example is Nelson Mandela, who spent 27 years in a prison cell. Far from becoming bitter or rigid, he used those years for reflection and personal education, adopting a vision of forgiveness and reconciliation. This ability to change transformed him into a globally respected leader.

Applying It to Daily Life

1. Career: A successful career involves flexibility and continuous learning. For instance, a marketing specialist must constantly adapt to new trends, whether it's about social media algorithms or consumer preferences.

2. Relationships: Change is also essential in relationships. A person who learns to communicate more effectively or to be more empathetic is more likely to build deep and lasting connections.

3. Personal Development: Learning how to change can also mean altering harmful habits. For example, someone who wants to adopt a healthier lifestyle can start by learning about nutrition and physical training, gradually adapting their daily routines.

Conclusion

Carl Rogers' quote reminds us that true education goes beyond the boundaries of textbooks or degrees. It is about a process of self-discovery and continuous adaptation, a capacity to navigate a world in constant flux. Authentic education is not just about accumulating knowledge but about becoming more open, adaptable, and prepared for the challenges of the future. Learning how to learn and how to change is the most valuable skill we can develop.

An Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience with "The Psychology of Cognition"

 

🧠 Understanding how the human mind works is key to understanding our behaviors and perceptions of the world.

The book "The Psychology of Cognition: An Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience" by Durk Talsma provides an in-depth look at how the brain processes information and influences behavior. This work is perfect for those who want to understand the link between cognitive processes and brain activity.

What will you learn:

1. Fundamental Cognitive Processes: How attention, perception, and memory function.
2. Cognitive Neuroscience: What underlies human behavior from a biological standpoint.
3. Case studies and recent research: How neuroscience helps us understand how we think and react.

📚 If you're a student of psychology or neuroscience, or simply curious to learn more about the human brain, this book will give you the theoretical foundation you need.

🔗 Order now on Kindle: https://amzn.to/4fM2ewQ

Have you ever studied cognitive neuroscience? What do you think of this fascinating field? Leave a comment below!