Stoic Wellbeing

Do you ever feel like people are too blunt – or not direct enough? Do you live by the clock, or are you free with your schedule? Do you like to cut to the chase and get to work, or do you need to warm up first? These are not just individual preferences – they are cultural norms. In this episode, I explore why we are the way we are, and what happens when different cultures collide. Read the article...

There's an unwritten rule in Swedish culture called the Law of Jante: Don't think you're special. Don't stand out. Blend in. It’s the opposite of American individualism – and both sides have a shadow. In this episode, I explore what a Swedish flatmate, living in Italy, and years of coaching have taught me about fitting in versus standing out, and why it matters for anyone worki...

Turns out there’s not just one way to listen – there are four, at least according to the authors of Adaptive Listening: How to Cultivate Trust and Traction at Work . In this episode, I share when to use each level of listening, plus the question you should always ask yourself before opening your mouth.  Read the article .  Read Adaptive Listening .  *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communicatio...

Love isn't what most people think it is. It’s not a bond between partners or family, according to Dr. Barbara Fredrickson – it’s a micro-moment of positivity that resonates in your body when you connect with someone, even with strangers. And the research is clear: The more of these moments you create, the happier and healthier you’ll be.  Read the article . Love 2.0 book *** I’m your host, Sa...

The hardest part of starting something new is feeling like you're failing. Before you quit, try the three ideas in this episode to help you get through this "conscious incompetence" phase. You'll learn how to build lasting confidence, and how to recognize the progress you're already making. Read the transcript . *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset...

Have you ever thought: “If they really loved me, they’d just know without me having to say it.” But expecting someone to intuit your needs isn’t romantic – it’s magical thinking. In this episode, I talk about why unspoken expectations lead to disappointment, the shift you need to make for real connection, and why clarity is one of the most generous things you can offer in a relationship. Read the...

I cried in my first knitting class and I didn’t know why – it’s not like I’m emotionally invested in making potholders out of yarn. In this episode, I explore the quiet pressure we put on ourselves without realizing it, and how we can give ourselves more grace. Read the transcript *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach . My work is about helping people like you share y...

My guest today, Sunalie, is a warm and gifted journalist – and also a former client of mine. During our time together, she had so many meaningful wins. Hearing about the specific shifts she made will help you strengthen your own confidence and communication skills – including how to feel more at ease when all eyes are on you.  Sunalie has been with her partner for over 20 years, but they never got...

Are you procrastinating more than you think you are? In this episode, I’m talking about virtuous procrastination – the act of avoiding discomfort, uncertainty, or purposeful risk by busying yourself with work that appears responsible, generous, and good. Volunteering. Overcommitting. Over-preparing. It looks admirable, but sometimes it’s just a sneaky distraction from what’s most important to you....

Comfort can quietly cost you the life you really want. When we play it too safe in the name of avoiding unpleasant thoughts or feelings, we drift away from our values and the things that bring meaning, energy, and connection. The Stoics offer a way back through intentional action, self-inquiry, and showing up with integrity – even when it’s uncomfortable. *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a commun...

We often have something meaningful to say – but the way we say it can get in the way. We overload our listener with backstory, hoping to make them understand, and end up muddying the message instead. In this episode, I explore why this happens and how a small shift in how we speak can make a big difference. *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach . My work is about help...

Carrie Bradshaw used to feel relatable. Now we accuse her of being unhinged. But maybe that says more about us than it does about her. Read the article . *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach . My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun. As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage...

We’ve all had those moments where an insult or offhand comment sticks in our head. Hours later, we’re still replaying it, wishing we’d come up with the perfect comeback. But what if the strongest response isn’t a clever line at all? In this episode, I explore what the Stoics – and even a surprising scene from Gladiator 2 – can teach us about handling insults and keeping our peace of mind. You’ll h...

To move forward, sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause and take stock of how far you’ve come.  Read the article . *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach . My work is about helping people like you share your voice, strengthen your relationships, and have more fun. As an American expat living in the U.K., I value curiosity, courage, and joy. A few things...

I finally became a British citizen after years of putting it off – not because I didn’t qualify, but because perfectionism kept slowing me down.  In this episode, I share the real reason I delayed, what happened when I shifted my focus from “perfect” to “done,” and revisit how the concept of maximizers vs. satisficers can help you move forward in your life. Read the article (and come say hi on Sub...

Being blunt isn’t the same as being brave. In a culture that idolizes people who “say whatever they think,” we’ve started confusing impulsiveness for honesty, and arrogance for authenticity. But unfiltered speech isn’t just lazy. Sometimes, it’s harmful. In this episode, I explore the difference between courage and carelessness, and how to practice mindful communication without losing your voice o...

The Science of Connection: Building Bonds Through Small Acts of Love In this episode, I share a brief moment with my nephew that opened up a bigger question: How do we create the kind of presence that people remember?  I explore the science of likability, the concept of “Love 2.0,” and why the smallest gestures – eye contact, laughter, a kind word – have long-lasting emotional and health benefits....

What if the real key to growth isn’t pushing harder, but celebrating more? In this episode, I’m sharing why savoring your wins matters – how it rewires your brain, reinforces your identity, and helps you live in alignment with your values. If you’ve been rushing from one goal to the next, this is your invitation to pause, reflect, and really honor the actions you’re taking. *** I’m your host, Sara...

What did the Founding Fathers actually mean when they talked about “the pursuit of happiness” – and how can we apply that wisdom to our lives today?  This episode is about what real happiness looks like – not the fireworks version, but the kind that comes from gratitude, good character, and being present for the small moments. *** I’m your host, Sarah Mikutel, a communication and mindset coach . M...

Struggling to start something new because you're afraid of looking foolish? This episode is your permission slip to begin. You’ll learn how Stoic philosophy and growth mindset can help you move through discomfort, let go of perfectionism, and build real confidence – one imperfect step at a time. If you’ve been overthinking or biting your tongue, this conversation will help you shift into acti...

What do abandoned mansions in Bucharest have to do with dirty dishes and emotional resentment? In this episode, I explore how our desire for fairness can lead us to self-sabotage — and how Stoic justice asks us to think beyond pride, punishment, and being right. We’ll walk through a real-world example of decades-long property disputes, connect it to the Ultimatum Game in behavioral economics, and...

Mr. Darcy has been on my mind this week. Not because he’s the fantasy of so many women, but because I finally read Pride and Prejudice , and discovered something shocking (to me) about him.  I’d always thought of Mr. Darcy as this tall, brooding, misunderstood character. The fabulously wealthy, handsome man who everyone thinks is a jerk, but secretly has a heart of gold and wants to take care of y...

Last week, I gave one of the lightning talks at Stoicon 2024. The topic: How to Combat Speaking Anxiety with Stoicism. Want to see the video? Head to my Substack 👉 Citizens of the World Thanks for listening ❤️ sarahmikutel.com Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot?  I created a free Conversation Cheat Sheet with simple formulas you can use so you can respon...

Why do we get angry? How can we challenge our immediate reactions? And what's the best way to articulate our feelings without passive aggression or a blow-up?  In this episode, you'll learn four Stoic tips to turn potential conflicts into opportunities for personal growth and stronger relationships. Do you ever go blank or start rambling when someone puts you on the spot?  I created...

I’m reading David Fideler’s excellent book Breakfast with Seneca , where he quotes Seneca in one of his letters:  “If you want to escape your troubles, you don't need to be somewhere else: you need to be someone else.”   Those searching for meaning or purpose in life might think a new place will provide answers. But a new location, a new job, a new partner doesn’t guarantee a better life or a...