Autumn: Today we're diving into 'Love Everybody, Always' by Bob Goff, a book challenging us to expand our capacity for radical love – even toward the people we find most difficult. Autumn: So, what’s the big life problem here? It’s that knot in your stomach around certain people – the difficult colleague, the family member with opposing views, even the person who cuts you off in traffic. We know we should be more loving, but fear, judgment, or just plain awkwardness makes us build walls. We stick with who’s easy. Why does this matter? Because avoiding the difficult doesn't just hurt them, it keeps us locked in judgment and isolation, missing out on deeper connections and the richness of human experience across differences. Autumn: Goff’s answer is refreshingly simple, though not always easy: Love isn't just a feeling you wait for; it's something you actively do. It starts by reframing how we see those challenging people. Often, our discomfort says more about our own fears than their worth. So when you feel that judgment rising, maybe ask: what am I actually afraid of here? He encourages small, concrete actions over grand gestures or trying to manufacture warm feelings. Think about his story of using walkie-talkies to connect with a sick neighbor – simple, consistent presence built a profound bond. Love is showing up, especially when inconvenient. It's also about ditching the performance. Stop trying to look like a perfect, loving person, like some wax figure, and embrace authenticity, messiness and all. You don’t need the perfect words; often just being truly present, really listening without formulating your rebuttal, is the most powerful thing. Goff befriended a TSA agent, three minutes at a time, during frequent flights – small moments building real connection. And he pushes us further, towards radical compassion, arguing true love gives freely, without keeping score, like kids not trading tickets for cheap prizes but just enjoying the game. It takes courage, stepping past fear, but that’s where transformation happens. Autumn: So here’s your takeaway: Think of one person you find challenging today – maybe that coworker who rubs you the wrong way. Instead of mentally listing their flaws, find one small, concrete action. Could you genuinely ask how they are and actually listen? Just one small shift. It’s a step towards loving everybody, always. Until next time, this is Autumn with Five Percent Happier.