Spiritual Evolution by George Vaillant #2354

Today’s book: Spiritual Evolution by George Vaillant—a profound exploration of how psychological maturity, relationships, and meaning deepen over a lifetime.

Here’s your 1-minute summary:

• Maturity unfolds in stages. Wisdom grows through experience, not theory—especially through love, work, and loss.

• Defense mechanisms evolve. Healthy coping (humor, altruism, anticipation) replaces denial and avoidance over time.

• Relationships are central. Long-term connection predicts well-being more than intelligence, wealth, or status.

• Suffering can refine you. Pain doesn’t automatically damage us—it can deepen compassion and perspective.

• Meaning outlasts happiness. A meaningful life sustains you when pleasure fades.

Growth doesn’t stop at adulthood—it deepens. What experience in your life might be shaping your next level of wisdom?

It's an absolute honor to spend time with you for however many days we were able to spend together over the last 365. I am fiercely committed to helping you make 2026 the greatest year of your life. See you on the other side!