We Can Do Hard Things 118. Cheryl Strayed: Don’t Let Your Dreams Ruin Your Life
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Aug 2, 2022 Cheryl Strayed opens up about the significance of her chosen last name and the profound impact of losing her mother. She shares invaluable lessons from her transformative hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, alongside her mother's timeless advice. The conversation navigates the challenge of finding happiness amid worries for her children's well-being and the importance of making peace with our inner critic. Through personal anecdotes, Cheryl emphasizes resilience, embracing mediocrity, and the pursuit of beauty and complexity in everyday life.
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Cheryl's Mother & Loss
- Cheryl Strayed's mother bravely left an abusive marriage, raising her children in poverty but with immense love.
- After her mother's sudden death from cancer, Cheryl spiraled into self-destructive behaviors to express her grief.
Choosing 'Strayed'
- Cheryl Strayed chose her last name after her divorce, reclaiming her identity after a difficult past.
- She sees the name as reflecting her journey of finding her own path.
Seeking vs. Escaping
- Cheryl views her hike not as an escape, but as a way to connect with herself and the world.
- She believes seeking and finding oneself often involves stepping away from familiar surroundings.
