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The Emotion Machine

The Emotion Machine

The Ecology of the Self in the 21st Century

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Author: Steven Handel

Steven Handel is a published author, coach, and creator at The Emotion Machine, a website dedicated to all aspects of psychology and self improvement in the 21st century.

Systems vs. Goals: Why Sustainability Is More Important Than Temporary Success

by Steven Handel

systems

Goals are often temporary, but systems are long-term. If you want to make a sustainable change in your life, you need to approach it as a systematic change.

Related Resources:

  • Daily Routine Worksheet (PDF)
  • Habit Stacking: Connecting New Habits to Old Ones
  • Willpower: How to Maximize Your Energy Levels Throughout the Day

The Power of Koans to Destroy Conceptual Thinking and Provoke Enlightenment

by Steven Handel

koans

In Zen philosophy, koans are short anecdotes or riddles that are designed to transcend conceptual and dualistic thinking, and thereby provoke enlightenment.

Related Resources:

  • How Culture Influences Our Minds in Profound Ways We Don’t Even Realize
  • 5 Reasons to Calm Down Your Analytical Mind
  • How Dada Poetry Can Spark Random Creativity and Insight

Existential Silliness: A Refreshing Perspective on Depression and Life’s Absurdities

by Steven Handel

existential silliness


Life is frequently unexplainable and it will always be a bit absurd. “Existential silliness” is an attitude that allows us to embrace life’s absurdities and turn them into a source of entertainment and humor.

The “Five Whys” Exercise: How to Recalibrate Yourself During Periods of Turbulence

by Steven Handel

five whys

There’s no such thing as a life without a little chaos and turbulence. The “Five Whys” exercise is a great tool for recalibrating our values during these difficult times.

Related Resources:

  • The Art of Taking a Step Back
  • Core Values Worksheet (PDF)
  • 7 Mind-Dissecting Questions to Help Others Get to the Root of Any Problem

Effective Altruism vs. Feel Good Altruism: How to Make a Bigger Difference in the World

by Steven Handel

effective altruism

What’s the difference between “effective altruism” vs. “feel good altruism?” How can we make our efforts to improve the world more impactful? 

Related Resources:

  • Circles of Empathy: Why We Care About People To Different Degrees
  • Trader vs. Hero Mindset: Why A Healthy Society Needs Both
  • The Beggar’s Gift: An Opportunity to Be Good
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