Episode 224

224 - Moderation In Everything

224 - Moderation In Everything

In this episode, I talk about a life lesson that’s stuck with me since childhood: the importance of moderation. From Greek philosophy to personal experiences with family and faith, I unpack how “all things in moderation” has become a guiding principle in how I view the world and navigate life’s ups and downs. We look at why extremes are so prevalent in today’s culture—and how finding the middle ground might be the key to more peace, better health, and healthier relationships.

Greek Roots of Moderation
I share how my love for mythology evolved into an interest in philosophy, especially the ancient Greek idea that virtue lies between two extremes. From bravery to self-control, the Greeks saw moderation not as weakness, but as wisdom.

The Real-World Impact of Extremes
Through stories about my own family, I reflect on how living in extremes—whether it's drinking, spending, or judging others—can lead to breakdowns in relationships and self-destruction.

Moderation in Emotional and Spiritual Life
Drawing on Stoic philosophers like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius, I explain how emotional balance is just as crucial. It’s not about being emotionless, but being emotionally grounded.

Finding the Middle in Modern Life
I touch on examples like food, exercise, and even how we treat others. It’s not about giving up on enjoyment or discipline—it’s about avoiding the burnout and blind spots that come with excess.

Takeaways:
The key message is simple but powerful: moderation leads to a more peaceful and effective life. We don’t have to live in emotional chaos or rigid restraint. Whether it’s how we eat, spend, love, or work, finding a balance helps us be more present and more authentic. This lesson shaped my path, and I hope it helps you think differently about how you approach the choices and rhythms in your own life.

Try identifying one area where you might be going to an extreme, and explore what a more balanced path might look like. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being intentional.

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/224-moderation-in-everything/.

Jill’s Links

https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com


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Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.