Learning to do less (even on Substack)

On burning out, sticking to your values and striving to do your best work.

Nov 9 • 

Emma Vivian

83

58

6

On giving yourself permission (and other October challenges)

Thoughts on trying, resting up, and those long-promised pupper Halloween costumes.

Nov 2 • 

Emma Vivian

38

16

6

October 2025

Every thought I had attending a writing group as a chronically anxious person

I joined an online writing community of poets and essayists. Here's every thought that's popped into my anxious newbie brain.

Oct 26 • 

Emma Vivian

44

29

4

Letter from a fellow optimist: Katie Blake on the currency of hope

On the coins I keep, the places I loved, and the optimism of return

Oct 19 • 

Emma Vivian

 and 

Katie Blake, PhD

16

3

7

Who I became when the old me was gone

My reflection on identity after cancer in collaboration with writer and advocate Wajeeha Nadeem. My essay first, then a link to hers.

Oct 10 • 

Emma Vivian

47

34

5

Really easy things I'm doing to simplify my life

What I’m doing to unravel the chaos—without overhauling my whole routine

Oct 5 • 

Emma Vivian

44

29

3

September 2025

On reclaiming the day (and other September feelings)

A chunky cardigan, a coastal escape, and the reminder that freedom starts with choosing joy.

Sep 28 • 

Emma Vivian

35

26

5

Letter from a fellow optimist: Lola Berry on fanning the spark in your heart

What happens when you stop living your backup plan and start betting on yourself?

Sep 21 • 

Emma Vivian

 and 

Lola Berry

19

11

3

Attempt at stepping through a portal

On thresholds, deadweights, and choosing a life of colour

Sep 14 • 

Emma Vivian

40

21

7

Optimist vs. 3 AM brain

On intrusive thoughts, wasted time, and the small miracle of trying anyway

Sep 7 • 

Emma Vivian

39

43

3

August 2025

On running out of time (and other August feelings)

On teacher’s-daughter dread, LA loneliness, and learning to find comfort in crickets.

Aug 31 • 

Emma Vivian

47

39

3

Letter from a fellow optimist: Jessy Easton on digging for gold

"Every shadow moment I’ve lived through has also been an initiation."

Aug 24 • 

Emma Vivian

 and 

Jessy Easton

31

21

9