Elizabeth Berg’s essay, The Day I Ate Whatever I Wanted, suggests that happiness and learning more about oneself comes about from breaking one’s rules. We meet a woman who has broken the diet for a day and eaten whatever she wanted- donuts galore and all the other things she loves until she is satisfied, laughing good-naturedly at society's silly expectations about body image and food. Berg sets out to capture humor and vivid imagery in describing the release of guilt, something that women should be allowed the freedom to express themselves about without worrying about what's appropriate, especially regarding body image and food. By the end of the day, instead of feeling guilty, she feels she has made a great turnaround in taking charge of her life. The essay invites readers to raise questions about societal rules, to embrace their flaws, and to enjoy whatever brings them pure joy.
Bhargav Patel
Summary 3
Shifting Gears: Finding Purpose Beyond Career Peaks
Arthur Brooks, in Your Professional Decline is Coming (Much) Sooner Than You Think, suggests that the ongoing dynamic development of careers as people become older. It is quick-thinking and problem-solvers at a younger age, but in an older age will be more experienced and wise. The advice is to rather set for jobs teaching other people rather than getting a habit of creating new things.
He also explains how aging can be tough, from the feelings such as losing one's sense of purpose or just who one is. He says it's important to devote time to close relationships, enjoy life, and, more than everything, concentrate on what really matters. This will help you to accept and even savor the changes that come with aging.
Brooks argues that success is not only defined by the things one has done. With life, relationships become paramount, and to become better. A life spent in this way can seem more meaningful and fulfilling.