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The Case for Interdependence

Welcome to Effective Habits, a weekly newsletter where I share evidence-based strategies and tools to help you live a happy, healthy, and productive life.

Today at a Glance:

• Interdependence is My New Retirement Plan

• A Practical Guide to Tick Prevention and Peace of Mind During Time Outdoors

• Tricking Yourself into Productivity

Interdependence is My New Retirement Plan
Lisa Sibbett

Lights, Camera, ...
As traditional retirement models grow more out of reach for many—due to rising costs, inadequate savings, and eroding social safety nets—some are turning to a different approach: interdependence. Instead of chasing the ideal of amassing wealth to live off passive income, this perspective values deep community ties, mutual aid, and a lifestyle shaped around giving and receiving care. It’s a choice shaped not just by principle, but often by necessity—particularly for those with chronic health conditions or limited access to stable, full-time work. While policy changes are essential to fix systemic issues, cultivating everyday generosity and shared responsibility may offer a parallel path forward—one that’s rooted in resilience, not isolation.

Action!

1. Give What You Can, Regularly – Regularly offer support to friends, neighbors, and local communities, and accept help when you need it. This includes giving your time, skills, meals, or resources.

2. Invest Time in Relationships – Nurture close, reciprocal connections with people of all ages—not just peers or family. Join communities that align with you longterm.

3. Align Work With Capacity – When possible, choose flexible work or living arrangements that allow you to stay connected and healthy, even if that means a lower salary.

4. Practice Generosity Without Guarantees – Give without expecting direct returns; trust in the long-term reciprocity of your community.

5. Advocate for Collective Systems – Support policies that strengthen social safety nets, such as universal healthcare, worker protections, and expanded retirement benefits.

A Practical Guide to Tick Prevention and Peace of Mind During Time Outdoors
Dr. Peter Attia, Dr. Taylor Yeater & Dr. Kathryn Birkenbach

Lights, Camera, ...
As tick populations surge this summer, so does the risk of the diseases they carry — from Lyme to lesser-known infections that can cause everything from flu-like symptoms to long-term health issues. These tiny parasites are active anywhere temperatures stay above freezing, with June and July being peak season in much of the U.S. And while a single tick bite often poses minimal risk, repeated exposure increases the odds of infection — especially in high-risk areas. Fortunately, protecting yourself (and your pets) doesn’t mean avoiding the outdoors. A few small habits can go a long way toward keeping your adventures tick-free.

Action!

1. Dress Strategically: Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks in tick-prone areas (e.g., woods, tall grass) and choose light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to spot.

2. Use Protective Treatments:

   1. Treat clothes and gear with 0.5% permethrin or buy pre-treated items.

   2. Apply EPA-registered repellents like DEET (≤30%), picaridin (20%), or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.

   3. Keep pets treated with vet-recommended tick prevention — but never apply DEET to them.

3. De-Tick Your Gear: Dry clothes on high heat for 6 minutes to kill any ticks. Or, if washing first, use hot water (at least 130°F / 54°C).

4. Remove Ticks Correctly: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool to pull the tick straight out close to the skin. Don’t use fire, petroleum jelly, or nail polish. Clean the area with soap and water after removal.

5. Assess the Risk: If a tick is engorged, was attached for 36+ hours, or you experience symptoms, consult your doctor.

Tricking Yourself into Productivity
Sahil Bloom

Lights, Camera, ...
Struggling to get started? Try using your brain’s favorite trick—self-deception—for good. Just like “one more episode” can spiral into a binge, you can nudge yourself into productivity by saying “I’ll just write one line,” “do one push-up,” or “read one paragraph.” This tiny commitment lowers the mental barrier, making it easier to start—and once you’ve started, momentum takes over. It’s not about discipline; it’s about hacking the transition.

Action!

• When you feel resistance, commit to doing just a tiny version of the task—like one line, one step, or one minute—to make starting easier and build momentum.

TOOL TIP

Rock Identifier: A mobile app (iOS & Android) that lets you snap a photo of any rock, mineral or crystal and get instant identification. There is a database and online encyclopedia of over 6,000 specimens! Could be fun to take on a hike.

FUN FACT

Starfish don’t have bodies. Along with other echinoderms (think sea urchins and sand dollars), their entire bodies are technically classed as heads. 

If you’ve found value in what I share, buying me a coffee is a great way to say “thanks” and help me keep doing what I love. Every bit of support helps me spend more time creating useful, thoughtful content for you. Thanks for being here—it means a lot! 🙏

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this newsletter is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not liable for any risks or issues that may arise from using this information.