In a year that brought both deeply polarizing moments and events of global camaraderie, these Atlantic writers, contributors, and experts tackled the quandaries and questions we encounter in our everyday lives.
Their advice, grounded in experience and expertise, offers new ways to think about topics such as parenting, cooking, and building relationships. Their words of wisdom provide guidance on when to give children a phone, why we should reconsider plus-ones at weddings, and more.
As 2025 approaches, now can feel like a time to set intentions for what you want the new year to bring. Let these musings be your guide as you reflect on what to carry forward—or leave behind.
It’s Time to Stop Inviting Plus-Ones to Weddings, by Faith Hill
Extra guests are expensive. What if we did away with them?
Plenty of People Could Quit Therapy Right Now, by Richard A. Friedman
Therapy isn’t like working out or going to the dentist. Eventually, you’re supposed to stop.
Throw Out Your Black Plastic Spatula, by Zoë Schlanger
Black plastic products—such as spatulas, sushi trays, and children’s toys—are regularly made from recycled electronic waste. Many of these products contain concerning levels of flame retardants, and they are leaching into our food.
You Might Be a Late Bloomer, by David Brooks
For many people, the talents that bloom later in life are more consequential than the ones that bloom early.
Is It Wrong to Tell Kids to Apologize?, by Stephanie H. Murray
Some parents argue that forcing children to say they’re sorry is useless or even harmful. The reality is more nuanced.
Focus on the Things That Matter, by Jennifer Senior
How do we move forward, as a nation, without looking at strangers as potential enemies?
Americans Have Lost the Plot on Cooking Oil, by Yasmin Tayag
Picking an olive oil is like trying to plan a European vacation: Greece, Italy, or Spain? For such a basic ingredient, oil can be complicated. But in getting hung up on the minutiae of cooking oil, it’s easy to lose the plot.
End the Phone-Based Childhood Now, by Jonathan Haidt
The phone-based world in which children and adolescents now grow up is profoundly hostile to human development.
