THESE EXCERPTS not only capture key moments and philosophies from my memoir but also provide a glimpse into my transformative journey, which could deeply resonate with you.
— John Holsinger
On Happiness and Fulfillment
“In essence, happiness isn’t a given; it’s a quest. And this quest, with all its trials and triumphs, is what makes life rich and rewarding. You have the tools you need; the rest is about embracing the journey.”
A Blessing in Disguise
“I now realize that my accident was a blessing in disguise. It forced me to confront my beliefs, commit to my relationships, and discover a new way of living that is centered on happiness and fulfillment. I started to make choices based on what would make me happy rather than what would impress others or fulfill societal expectations.”
The Power of Goals
“Goals have the power to transform lives by providing focus, demanding dedication, and instilling a sense of purpose. Yet, an old piece of advice from my twenties echoed in my mind: ‘Don’t tell me what you don’t want to do. Tell me what you do want to do.’ I realized just making it through each day wasn’t enough; I needed a plan for happiness.”
The Importance of Community
“Before the accident, I was stubborn and prided myself on self-reliance. But going through this life-changing experience made me see the importance of community. I came to understand that we’re all connected in some way, a lesson that was tough to learn but will serve me well for the rest of my life.”
Selfish Determinism
“The life philosophy I call Selfish Determinism blends two concepts: a self-interested individual navigating life in a causally determined universe. Selfishness, according to Merriam-Webster, is described as an excessive focus on oneself, pursuing personal gain or pleasure without regard for others. I hold the belief that being selfish is essential for survival and happiness.”
You can read more at my Accidental Motivation Substack page.