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#agency

June 2026 2 notes

reflections updated 7 min read

On existential cringe as a personal/professional motivator

AI summary

Personal reflection on avoiding "cringe" due to upbringing gives way to the realization that leaning into activities perceived as cringey, such as bird identification, can unlock personal and professional growth. Drawing on Cate Hall's concept, the note argues that existential cringe signals where the most progress can be made, and that freeing oneself from the fear of being cringe is creatively and motivationally valuable.

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notes updated 6 min read

A philosophy of depression

AI summary

This note reflects on Justin Garson’s APA blog article arguing that the chemical imbalance model of depression is outdated and harmful, promoting instead a view of depression as a functional signal. The author relates this to personal experience with overtraining syndrome and an SNRI that dulls highs and lows without addressing underlying causes. Garson’s philosophical framing emphasizes depression as a call to action, redefining selfhood, agency, and the good life.

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