John Holsinger’s Substack

John Holsinger's Substack

Discover More on Substack!

I'm delighted to extend an invitation to all my readers and supporters to join me on a deeper, more interactive journey at John Holsinger's Substack. This platform is where I share weekly chapters of my memoir, Accidental Motivation, along with insights and reflections that go beyond the pages.

Substack allows us to connect more intimately through the written word. Each week, a new chapter is unveiled, inviting you to be part of a continuous narrative that is not just my story, but a shared experience of growth, challenges, and the pursuit of happiness.

By subscribing to my Substack, you'll not only get regular updates but also become part of a community of readers who are on this journey of discovery and self-reflection. Your thoughts, comments, and discussions will enrich this adventure, making it a collective exploration of the themes that resonate within us all.

So, if you're curious to dive deeper and engage directly with the content and the community, click the link below and join us at John Holsinger's Substack. Let's continue this journey together, one chapter at a time.

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Looking forward to seeing you there!

Recounts the tragic accident of Scott Birk and its profound impact which prompts the author to reflect deeply on life's unpredictability and the illusion of control.
Explores the complex pursuit of happiness and understanding in the wake of a life-altering event, painting a vivid picture of the author's experiences and philosophical reflections. This chapter sets the stage for a deep exploration of the concept of 'Selfish Determinism', a central theme of the memoir.
The author recounts his transformative summers detasseling corn at Dull Homestead. He learned invaluable lessons on responsibility, work ethic, and the nuances of leadership under the guidance of Ralph Dull. This chapter reflects on the profound impacts of family, personal growth during adolescence, and the shaping of his life's direction through early work experiences. It's a tale of coming-of-age amidst the fields of corn, exploring how these formative years influenced his philosophical perspectives and career path.
In "Accidental Motivation," particularly in "Unhappy Success," the memoir examines the gap between what society sees as success and true personal happiness. Despite having a successful career and recognition, the author feels empty and unfulfilled. This leads to a deep exploration of what happiness and success really mean, and how much of our lives are predetermined.
The memoir section discusses how societal influences and predestined factors like family and community shape one's choices and sense of self, particularly in a small town setting where paths like farming can seem preordained. It explores group dynamics, the power of gossip, the pressure to conform, and the fluctuating nature of morality, all while questioning the balance between free will and determinism in our lives.
In "The Fastest Labor Day Ever," the author describes a cycling event that becomes life-altering when an accident propels him off a bridge. Surviving a fifty-foot fall, he owes his life to the immediate action of fellow cyclists and medics. This chapter captures the fragility of life, the importance of community, and the unexpected turns one's path can take.
Chapter 5 of "Accidental Motivation" details the author's journey of self-discovery following a severe bicycle accident that leaves him grappling with a Traumatic Brain Injury. The ordeal triggers a philosophical awakening, forcing him to confront his values and the concept of happiness.
In Part 2, the author explores the theme of transformation post-accident. From meeting with Steve Lawton, who inspired the title of his memoir, to the unwavering support from Hollie Kenney, and navigating through therapy and recovery challenges. It highlights the journey of finding strength, redefining personal goals, and the importance of community. Walking became not just physical recovery but also a path to introspection and reconnection with his children and life itself.
In this section, John Holsinger outlines his philosophy of Selfish Determinism, arguing that our lives and decisions are predetermined by past influences and universal laws, not free will. He believes that what we consider selfish is natural and essential for happiness and survival. Through personal anecdotes and scientific laws, he demonstrates that life's apparent choices are really reactions to existing circumstances. Holsinger encourages readers to embrace this deterministic view as a means to understand their actions and pursue genuine happiness without regret.
In the final part of "Accidental Motivation," John Holsinger reflects on embracing the deterministic nature of life after his accident, finding peace in accepting the unchangeable past and the largely predetermined future. He highlights the significance of personal growth, self-love, and actively seeking happiness. John shares the transformative experience of hiking the Grand Canyon with friends, underscoring the value of mindfulness, gratitude, and cherishing simple joys. He advocates for prioritizing personal happiness, relationships, and self-reflection over societal expectations. John's memoir is a guide to understanding and achieving happiness through deliberate choices within a deterministic framework, emphasizing honesty, adaptability, and the acknowledgment of one's unique role in the universe.