Baby Steps to Adulting
I never liked the idea of talking to myself like a child. It feels like I’m shrinking myself down. But the reality is, it’s so effective! We’re so gentle with children. When they’re scared, we take the time to ask why, figure out what’s behind the fear, and we reassure them. If they’re in HALT […]
That’s What You Get
There are many beliefs about being a good person and living a virtuous life, and one popular idea is that when you do good for others, good things will come back to you—what some people believe is the essence of karma. But I don’t see it that way. I don’t think life rewards us with […]
I met The Nicest Strangers and Had Social Anxiety
Ever since the pandemic, my social behavior has shifted. Due to some health issues, I isolated for a couple of years. Although I kept in touch with friends and had a very social job, it was all digital. I had control over who I invited into my world with just a click, and with another […]
What Do I Do with These Feelings?
Before I had tools, I often felt lost, lonely, and anxious, though I didn’t think these feelings needed to be addressed because I also experienced happiness, motivation, and love. I would often flip-flop between these emotions. Feeling a range of emotions isn’t bad, but they would often dictate my actions and override logic, making life […]
Tricking Myself into Motivation
One of my secrets to staying motivated is that I trick myself every day. My morning routine, daily schedule, and night routine are full of tricks designed to keep me on track. Here are some examples: I bought the easiest and best espresso and foam maker for my home, which helps me stop spending hundreds […]
Check My Nails. Baby How You Feelin’?
I can tell a lot about how I’m doing just by looking at my nails. It might sound strange, but they’re a pretty reliable indicator of how well I’m taking care of myself. When my nails are uneven, chipped, or my cuticles are a mess, it’s usually because I’ve neglected them. Maybe a nail broke […]
Pull Over. Something’s Wrong.
Yesterday, I was riding my bike and started feeling sick. At first, it was mild, just a bit of heartburn. But then I began to feel woozy. I was all set to push through the pain and finish the ride. We were only 15 minutes from home, and I didn’t want to mess up the […]
Which Way Do I Go Now?
Self-help information can sometimes sound confusing, even contradictory. One moment, I’m talking about the importance of taking breaks, and the next, I’m advocating for pushing through feelings and continuing to work. Sometimes, I emphasize the importance of doing the work, while at other times, I stress the need to play and relax. It can be […]
Wouldn’t It Be Nice
Sometimes, I don’t want to grow or learn. I just want to sit and stare at the ocean while my favorite foods magically appear. These moments can be unsettling. My mind starts judging, making me worry I’ve lost all my progress and will fall into a rut. But I have to catch myself and laugh; […]
Practice Being Pissed – How to Respond
Now that I admit, notice, name, and recognize my reactions to emotions like anger, fear, and annoyance, I can practice living with them. Before, I was practicing squashing them down. Now, I’m practicing playing and experimenting with them. It sounds funny to say that. How would a person practice feelings? Here’s how: When I’m in […]
