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Does Empathy Equal Morality?

Empathy: Is it a good thing, a bad thing, or just a thing? Does being high in empathy make you a good person and does being low in empathy make you a bad person? Good questions. We turn to research to find the answer.

Turns out, the answer is actually that empathy is not moral or immoral, rather it is amoral. It’s just a thing. It does not make you a good person to have a lot or a bad person to have little. There is no such connection.

In a 2014 paper for the Psychological Bulletin, researchers reviewed all available data on this subject in a meta-analysis and found that 1% of the variation of aggression was due to lack of empathy. There is no real correlation to low empathy making you a bad person.

Studies show that when “spotlighting” one through empathy, one is willing to disregard laws, ethics, morals, and good reasoning to make sure the one they’re empathizing with is taken care of. This clearly clouds our judgement.

Participants in one study were willing to move one subject up in the list of transplants, even if it meant there was a good chance the subject would still live and a good chance the ones she skipped would die. It didn’t matter. Participants had empathy.

Another study took it another step and participants were willing to inflict pain that could result in hospitalization on a math contest participant that was opposing the one they were empathizing with. Didn’t matter. Gotta empathize.

You can only empathize with one person at a time. You can sympathize with many and have compassion for many. But you can only empathize with one at a time. This is why it is so dangerous.

Is it all bad? No. Cognitive empathy, theory of mind, and effective altruism are all ways in which empathy can be a good thing. We can allow it to drive us in a good direction but empathy must be met with analytic and altruistic reasoning that calibrates the possible upcoming action for effectiveness and realistic achievement. Understanding where someone is and how they are feeling is a good thing. When it propels us into unfettered, unbridled, blind action is when it becomes a problem.

Compassion is the best emotion to feel for those suffering. It is a true feeling that keeps bad decisions at bay long enough for your prefrontal cortex to get involved and make a rational decision. Rational compassion.

So, please remember this when you begin hearing people claiming empathy is the one all encompassing path to morality and goodness. It is FAR from that. On a good day.

Stay Classy GP!

Grainger

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The Thanksgiving Feast: No Regrets

Ah, Thanksgiving! That glorious time of year when you can’t decide to bake or fry your turkey. You have the choice of having your potatoes with little lumps, with peas and onions, or the everlasting standby: tater tots. Your choice of 5 different desserts…oh the dessert! It’s a meal that’s been in the works for days, sometimes even weeks, and it’s finally here. The moment has arrived for you to gather around the table with friends, family, and a serious amount of stuffing. But wait—before you start mentally calculating how many calories are on your plate, take a deep breath and repeat after me: No regrets.

Let’s get real for a second. We all know that Thanksgiving is an indulgent holiday. It’s not about measuring out your portions or calculating macros; it’s about eating for joy, not for judgment. And you know what? You DON’T have to feel guilty about it.

*SN If you are boycotting all pilgrim holidays, this still applies for your grilled cheese or your trip to Ruby Tuesday.

Balance is Key—Not Guilt

Here’s the thing: You won’t get skinny from one salad, and you won’t get fat from one Thanksgiving meal. Balance is the magic word. It’s all about perspective. Let’s say you devour an extra slice of pumpkin pie (guiltyyyy). Sure, in the moment, you might feel a little bit like you’ve just made a questionable life choice. But in the grand scheme of things, that slice of pie is not going to singlehandedly derail your fitness and health goals or send you into an emotional tailspin.

Instead of stressing over every bite, try focusing on the bigger picture: you’re enjoying food that’s been carefully prepared with love and tradition. And if that means going a little overboard on the different potato options, so be it. The meal is temporary, but the memories of laughing with your loved ones over a shared table last a lifetime.

Let’s Talk About That Salad

You know what’s great? Eating healthy most of the time. That’s the true key to balance. But do we need to turn a salad into a shrine of holiness just because it’s the “healthier” choice? Not really. Yes, the salad is a lovely gesture, but it’s not going to cancel out your second helping of gravy-drenched turkey. One salad doesn’t make you a health guru, and one Thanksgiving meal doesn’t make you a turkey-stuffing monster.

Just eat the danged ole salad if you’re craving it, and then go for the stuffing, mashed potatoes, and whatever else your heart desires. Food is meant to be savored, not tortured by guilt.

The Real Secret: Mindful Eating

The real trick to enjoying Thanksgiving (or any indulgent meal, really) is mindfulness. Savor your bites. Pay attention to the flavors and textures. Listen to the crunch of the stuffing and the smoothness of the gravy. Be present in the moment, not thinking about whether you should have skipped the extra roll or if you’re going to have to do 500 burpees to make up for that extra scoop of cranberry sauce.

You know why? Because this holiday only comes around once a year. It’s a chance to celebrate abundance, connection, and joy. Focus on the fun, the family, the laughs, and the fact that the pie you’re about to devour is really freaking delicious. You’ll feel fuller with joy than with regret.

It’s Not a Day of Sin

Let’s get one thing straight: Thanksgiving is not the day you “fall off the wagon.” There’s no wagon to fall off of—there’s only a table, filled with glorious, comforting food. It’s one meal. One day. Not a week, not a month, not a lifestyle choice. So, embrace it.

The next morning, if you’re feeling sluggish, take a walk. Drink some water. But don’t punish yourself for enjoying yourself the day before. You didn’t ruin anything. You didn’t undo all your hard work. You just had a really good meal. And that’s something worth celebrating.

The Bottom Line? Eat, Enjoy, Repeat

So, here’s the bottom line: Thanksgiving is about enjoying the food, not obsessing over it. It’s about balance, mindfulness, and zero guilt. Fill your plate, fill your heart, and most importantly, fill your soul. If you eat something with a sense of enjoyment and no second-guessing, your body will thank you for it.

And if you do find yourself eyeing that last slice of pie and thinking, “Can I? Should I?” The answer is yes, yes you can. And you should—because one indulgent day won’t derail anything. Just enjoy it and move on. Tomorrow’s another day, and it’s full of opportunities to find balance all over again.

Dig in with no regrets. Just gratitude.

Stay Healthy GP!

JD

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Not Sure What to Do with Your Halloween Candy? EAT IT!

Here we are, the leaves are changing colors, and the air is turning crisp. It’s that magical time of year again. Costumes, decorations, and of course, Reese’s Cups – ok there are other candies, but we all know Reese’s Cups are the best. With all those sugary temptations, it’s easy to feel a hint of guilt. Well, there’s good news: indulging in some Halloween treats is perfectly fine – just remember to keep it fun and moderate!

Debunking the Fear of Sugar

The common misconception is that sugar itself is a direct path to health issues like heart disease and diabetes. While sugar does pack a lot of calories per gram, it’s not the sugar itself that magically creates problems. Instead, it’s overindulgence that can lead to obesity, and ultimately, those scary health conditions. A little bit of sweetness can fit into a balanced diet without the looming threat of disaster. (Real quick- I’m not saying you can’t develop conditions like heart disease and diabetes unless you are obese, however obesity heavily increases the risk of development)

The Sweet Science of Balance

For those managing conditions like diabetes, Halloween can feel a bit more complicated. It’s essential to be mindful about sugar intake. According to the Healthline article Understanding Your Daily Insulin Needs, individuals with properly functioning insulin can enjoy candy without meticulously tracking every morsel, allowing for a more relaxed experience.  However, diabetics and prediabetics should approach their choices with care.

Healthline highlights that understanding how much insulin to take for the carbohydrates you eat can help people with diabetes enjoy celebrations with confidence. By keeping an eye on consumption and adjusting insulin accordingly, you can enjoy your favorite treats without worry.

Tips for a Guilt-Free Candy Adventure

  1. Select Your Favorites: Reese’s Cups are of course your favorite. Therefore, instead of sampling every candy in the bowl, focus on the Reese’s Cup (or whichever one you so wrongly chose as your favorite). This way, you can indulge without feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Practice Portion Control: Enjoy a small serving instead of diving headfirst into the entire stash. A little treat can satisfy your cravings and keep you on track. Remember it’s not the size of the candy bar; it’s how you enjoy it!
  3. Stay Active: Incorporate some movement into your Halloween plans! Whether it’s a family stroll after a meal or a Stomp the Yard dance competition, staying active helps balance out those extra calories.
  4. Prioritize Balance: Make sure your meals include plenty of vegetables, proteins, and grains. A nutritious diet allows for the occasional treat without guilt. Earn that candy!
  5. Savor Each Bite: Take your time and enjoy your candy. Mindful eating enhances the experience and helps you feel satisfied with smaller amounts. After all, why rush a good thing when you can savor that sugary blissfulness and make the moment last?
  6. Sugar Free Options: Last but not least, there are sugar-free options in almost every type of candy. I personally don’t care for them. I like genuine processed sugars in my life, thank you very much. Besides, most sugar-free candy has me running to the Port-a-John every time. Gross. However, these can be excellent substitutions. My wife and I regularly intake sugar-free substitutes such as, sodas, ice cream, and some homemade baked desserts. *Aspartame & sucralose are not inherently bad for you. They do give some people headaches and stomach aches (like anything else in the world), but there are no links to cancer. See PMC10459792.

This Halloween let’s embrace the joy of candy without fear! With a bit of understanding and a dash of moderation, you can enjoy your favorite sweets while keeping your health in check. So go ahead, indulge in that fun-sized treat, and celebrate your excuse to eat a Reese’s Cup (or go crazy and get a Fastbreak!). Happy Halloween!

Stay Healthy, GP!

JD

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Health & Fitness Introduction

Greetings!

I am thrilled to unveil a new branch of Tidbits of Audacity – our brand-new monthly blog dedicated to health and wellness. As a fitness specialist passionate about holistic wellness, I’m here to serve up some insights, tips, and inspiration to help you strut your stuff on the way to a healthier lifestyle.

Why Health and Fitness?

In a world that’s always on the go – like a squirrel on espresso – keeping our physical and mental health in check often takes a backseat. But let’s face it: a thriving life starts with a body and mind that are firing on all cylinders. Our mission with this new branch of Tidbits of Audacity is to empower you with knowledge and motivation to prioritize your well-being. From innovative workout routines to mindful practices, we’re here to support you every step of the way. (And we promise to keep the dad jokes to a minimum…well, mostly!)

What to Expect

Each month, you can look forward to engaging, evidence-based content to help you make informed decisions about your health and fitness. Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll be covering:

  1. Fitness Fundamentals: Whether you’re a gym guru or just figuring out how to use the treadmill without accidentally launching yourself, we’ll discuss effective workout strategies and tips tailored to your goals.
  2. Nutrition Know-How: Discover the art of balanced eating, meal planning, and fueling your body with the nutrients it craves. We’ll bust myths and provide practical advice – like how to enjoy your favorite foods without feeling like you’ve committed a culinary crime. *Note* Diet is crucial, so we’ll tackle this from an evidence-based perspective while still allowing for a slice of pizza (or two…we won’t tell!).
  3. Mental Wellness: Because fitness isn’t just about looking good in your new workout gear! We’ll explore strategies for managing stress, building mental resilience, and finding joy in your self-improvement journey.
  4. Lifestyle Enhancements: Learn how small changes – like finally tossing that old mattress – can significantly boost your overall well-being, from sleep hygiene to time management.

Why This Matters

Embarking on a healthier lifestyle is not just about individual gains; it’s about fostering a healthier society. Investing in our well-being contributes to a ripple effect that benefits our families, workplaces, and communities. By sharing this journey with you, we hope to create a supportive network where everyone can thrive.

Join the Movement

We’re pumped to embark on this journey with you! Keep an eye out for our upcoming posts, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or topics you’d like us to cover. Together, let’s prioritize health and fitness and build a future where we can live our best lives.

Here’s to your health, happiness, and audacious living!

Stay Healthy GP!

JD