In this episode, Suleika Jaouad, author of Between Two Kingdoms, discusses her experience learning how to live in the space between no longer and not yet. Suleika shares how illness shattered her plans and forced her to confront mortality, finding agency through journaling and creativity. She discusses the difference between pain and suffering, the importance of community, and learning to live in life’s uncertain “in-between” spaces. Following a recurrence of her disease, she reflects on resilience, love, and embracing discomfort as pathways to meaning and growth.

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Key Takeaways:

Suleika’s personal journey with acute myeloid leukemia at age 22.
The impact of illness on identity and life plans.
The psychological and emotional challenges associated with serious health issues.
The concept of living in the “messy middle” between past and future.
The role of creativity and journaling in coping with illness.
The importance of community and connection during difficult times.
The distinction between physical pain and emotional suffering.
The idea of bravery in responding to hardship and making active choices.
The significance of rituals in navigating uncertainty and transitions.
Finding meaning and beauty in life despite pain and suffering.

For full show notes:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this conversation with Suleika Jaouad, check out these other episodes:

How to Find Solace in Discomfort with Lanusha Dameris

Strengthening Our Resilience with Linda Graham

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