On Walter Mitty, Attachment Theory, and The Astral Codex

Hey friends!

Good afternoon from Austin, TX. I got back on Thursday of last week after spending a week in San Diego. It was interesting to visit after not living there for a few months. It didn’t feel like home anymore though I’m not sure it ever really did.

Austin is starting to have that feeling for me. I’m really starting to settle in and I’m looking forward to when things open up a bit more. I’m ready to explore.

Here’s to hoping that that is sooner rather than later.

Here’s what I have for you this week.

🌄On Walter Mitty

A friend suggested that I watch this movie. She said it was her favorite movie of all-time. High praise.

The 2013 remake of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is the second remake of James Thurber’s short story by the same name.

A Walter Mitty is "a commonplace unadventurous person who seeks escape from reality through daydreaming.”

The 2013 remake reinterprets the notion of Walter Mitty as a passive daydreamer into someone who boldly takes action to live the life of their dreams. The film is stunning.

Here’s a quick quote from the movie:

To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other, and to feel. That is the purpose of life.

It is a film about adventure, courage, presence, and living life to its fullest. It also has an incredible soundtrack. Well worth a watch.

It’s currently streaming on Hulu.

❤️On Attachment

I’m currently learning about attachment theory.

Attachment theory is concerned with relationships between human beings.

Attachments describe a bond between an individual and an attachment figure. In childhood, this figure is our primary caregiver. As we age, these figures evolve (friendships, relationships, etc.).

There are four primary attachment styles (though it seems like they’re naming varies a bit):

• Secure

• Dismissive-avoidant

• Anxious-preoccupied

• Fearful-avoidant (a.k.a., disorganized)

This is an oversimplification of the theory but we exhibit certain behaviors based on our attachment style which impacts our relationships to others.

I was operating without any knowledge of my attachment style and though I experienced the negative effects of it (specifically in my romantic relationships), I was completely unaware of why.

While it seems somewhat obvious now, learning about and identifying my own attachment style has helped me identify triggers and harmful behaviors that damage my relationships. It’s a huge step towards developing a more secure attachment style and building more fulfilling relationships.

Here’s the book I’m reading on it if you’re interested in diving deeper:

Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find—and Keep—Love

🪐On The Astral Codex

One of my favorite bloggers is back. He was - until his most recent post - an anonymous blogger.

He pulled down his blog after The New York Times threatened to reveal his identity. This was problematic for a few reasons including his role as a psychiatrist and his desire to maintain anonymity.

After a somewhat heated debate (including death threats, email spamming, and Russia), the Times decided not to run the story and Scott decided to out himself and start his own practice.

You can read the full story here.

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That’s all I have for you this week.

Until next time,

KB