How to Be a Better Human

“Your best self is the same as your worst self” (w/ Heather Havrilesky)

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Jun 9, 2025
Heather Havrilesky, author of Foreverland and writer of the advice columns Ask Polly and Ask Molly, dives into the messy parts of self-identity. She discusses how embracing contradictions can lead to a happier life. The conversation touches on the tumultuous twenties, the art of writing authentically, and the necessity of humor in overcoming life's absurdities. Heather also reflects on societal pressures and the importance of presenting a genuine self in a fragmented world.
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ANECDOTE

The Chaos of Your 20s

  • Heather loves responding to people in their 20s and early 30s because it's a difficult, chaotic period.
  • She advises not to take this time too seriously as you have many chances to start over and make mistakes.
INSIGHT

Embrace Your Messy Self

  • Heather's experience shows being your whole self means embracing contradictions and messiness.
  • Through many phases, failures, and reinventions, she learned humility is at the heart of authentic living.
ADVICE

Use Humor to Heal

  • Use humor and self-mockery to ease suffering and embrace your flaws.
  • Heather’s advice writing thrives on her ability to insult herself and go off on tangents.
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