The Shoulds by Francesca Specter | Substack

Issue #32: A gentler approach to treating insomnia

What I learnt from a sleep therapist, after taking the NHS self-assessment for insomnia. Plus, the best tips & advice for nodding off – including…

Jun 8 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #31: The right to be boring (whatever your life stage)

Is 'domestic bliss' reserved for couples and/or families?

Jun 1 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #30: What turns dining alone into a positive experience?

Sitting at the counter versus people-watching & avoiding the 'Only Me' trap. Plus, what waiters really think of solo customers.

May 25 •

Francesca Specter

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Issue #29: How to slow down and savour the good things

'I need a routine that is baggy enough to live in,' writes Matt Haig. This is how I'm pulling back the reins on my London lifestyle, as I return from…

May 18 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #28: 19 ways to feel more connected to others (without moving to a tiny village)

Inspired by positive psychology, urban design & religion, fresh approaches for dealing with the L-word.

May 11 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #27: Question the fear, and do it anyway – how to make curiosity your superpower, in 5 steps

An interview with author Constantine Andriopoulos on using purposeful curiosity to reclaim your attention, check your ego & conquer your inner critic…

May 4 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #26: Friendship as an act of rebellion

Why making friends is liberating, Top Friends on MySpace – and the politics of 'Couple Friends'. Plus, an explainer guide to all the latest books on…

Apr 27 •

Francesca Specter

What's a book you wanted to love – but hated? 📚

Consider this your permission slip to ditch that novel.

Apr 25 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #25: Failure, served three ways

How to embrace your setbacks without letting them define you.

Apr 20 •

Francesca Specter

Issue #24: Everyone's talking about Therapy Speak, but what is it?

When he's fluent in attachment theory, but dumps you via text. Plus, why thought-stopping words are toxic, and the best jargon-free emotional education…

Apr 13 •

Francesca Specter

The Shoulds by Francesca Specter

The Shoulds by Francesca Specter

From Alonement author & podcaster Francesca Specter, an online publication examining the hidden rules & stories that shape our lives.

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The Shoulds by Francesca Specter

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