Alex Gertsburg

I, Storyteller

Ever considered how emotional intelligence shapes your life? While often overlooked in successes, its absence is glaring in failures that damage relationships and opportunities. Drawing from thinkers like Yuval Noah Harari and Viktor Frankl, I underscore the power of self-narratives in shaping our actions and experiences. Discover a process for identifying, observing, and reframing theseContinue reading I, Storyteller

The Memory Tree

A reflection on my 20-year journey of journaling, which began during a deployment to Iraq in 2003. This habit has had a transformative impact, capturing both life’s stresses and triumphs. Reading past entries, I find gratitude for the perspective gained on moments that once felt insurmountable but were merely speed bumps paving the way forContinue reading The Memory Tree

Welcome to the Party

Do you feel like your emotions are guests at a never-ending party? Peace, joy, and love might be the life of the party, but regret, worry, and fear often crash the scene. Instead, why don’t we explore how acknowledging and embracing these uninvited guests can transform our lives? Discover how acceptance and gratitude can turnContinue reading Welcome to the Party

How to Fix the Election System

Ever thought about using reality TV to select political candidates? Our current flawed election system is already a spectacle, so why not lean into it? Assess candidates based on their real-life actions and character. By placing them in various simulated crises and everyday situations, voters can gauge true leadership qualities, creating a genuine meritocracy freeContinue reading How to Fix the Election System

Not Today

How often do you say “No”? Rethink habitual “Yes” responses and embrace the power of “No” to align with our true priorities and values. Constant agreement can lead to an overload of commitments and a life driven by others’ expectations. By setting clear boundaries and principles, we can reclaim our freedom and focus on whatContinue reading Not Today

Leverage

Ever considered the power of taking 100% responsibility for your life? Owning your choices, actions, and emotions can transform your mindset. By rejecting blame and embracing personal growth, you find meaning in every experience, foster empowerment and continuous improvement, emphasizing that life happens “by me, for me,” not “to me.” Discover the strength and simplicityContinue reading Leverage

Burning Ships

Ever wondered what it takes to achieve life’s greatest accomplishments? Life’s greatest achievements often lie on the other side of courage, risk, and sacrifice. Sometimes, you have to take bold, irreversible actions—like leaving a bad marriage, quitting a stable job, or pursuing a creative dream—despite the doubts and criticisms from others. Ultimately, great things areContinue reading Burning Ships

The Great Reset

The art of letting go is the ultimate skill to practice and strengthen. It’s a powerful muscle, capable of lifting mountains and reversing time. Letting go keeps us present, creating space for growth, learning, and forgiveness while destroying anger and resentment. Known by many names—accepting, releasing, resetting, and zero-fucks-given—this skill unlocks endless joy, wealth, love,Continue reading The Great Reset

Oh, Brain…

Do you find yourself wondering about the fascinating quirks of your brain? I had a profound realization during a silent meditation retreat in my 30s. After days of introspection, I compiled a list titled “Interesting Things About My Brain,” highlighting its fickle nature, short memory, and tendency to fixate on emotional or perceived out-of-order things.Continue reading Oh, Brain…

Funeral Instructions

Ever considered an unconventional approach to funerals? What about joy and celebration over sadness and mourning. Instead of a traditional funeral, I envision a vibrant gathering with laughter, music, and meaningful gestures, like spreading ashes from a mountaintop and donating to homeless shelters. Rethink end-of-life traditions, focusing on personal joy, shared stories, and community support.Continue reading Funeral Instructions