Jack Bilson On…

Personal Growth

  • On Control

    Control is not about exercising dominance over our lives and their outcomes, but rather about quietly recognising our power and its limitations. This can be challenging in a world that rewards control. Control over appearance, outcomes and others. But philosophers… Continue reading

  • On Vulnerability

    Vulnerability is not the opposite of strength. But that is how it often feels. We are taught to build walls. We are encouraged to be rational, self-sufficient and immune to disorder and chaos. We should be disciplined and in control… Continue reading

  • On Ambition

    Ambition is not hunger. It is not the craving for more or the need to be seen. It is also not about power, applause or arrival. At least, not always. Ambition is a direction. It is a quiet, inner ache… Continue reading

  • On Contentment

    Contentment is not the absence of desire, but the quiet knowing that you are enough. It is not the dulling of ambition, nor is it about living a motionless life. Instead, it is a state where striving and achievement are… Continue reading

  • On Solitude

    In a world that constantly demands our attention, solitude can feel like an uncomfortable interruption to the constant stream of noise and expectation. Yet I have always found such incredible comfort in its presence. It is something I return to… Continue reading

  • On Dissatisfaction

    We often mistake dissatisfaction for a character flaw or as the product of some unfortunate set of circumstances. Our dissatisfaction is explained away as a rough patch, a restless phase, or a bad week, but beneath the surface, there is… Continue reading

  • On Comfort

    Comfort is not the enemy, but it should not be the goal, either. It begins with warmth, shelter, nourishment and all the other things we need to survive, but it rarely stops there. It continues to grow quietly and invisibly,… Continue reading

  • On Kindness

    Kindness is more than what it seems. Increasingly, the word is used to soften the edges of discomfort, seeking to shield us from disagreement and prevent confrontation. In this form, it becomes less about connection and more about control. It… Continue reading

  • On Communication

    We can tell when someone is creating something to show it to others, for no other reason than to put their cleverness on display. Equally, we can tell when someone is creating for no other reason than they must. Others… Continue reading

  • On Desire

    Desire is not the problem. It is what you do with it that matters. We live in a world that tells us to chase desire relentlessly. To cultivate a life that is worth living, make every day count, extract meaning… Continue reading