Say What You Mean. Mean What You Say. And Don’t Say it Mean.
There I was cleaning the toilet, getting into every surface of it while trying not to touch anything. You know, basic adulting. Cleaning isn’t exactly my idea of fun, but I was getting things done, dishes, laundry, etc. when frustration started bubbling up. Before I knew it, a passive-aggressive remark escaped my lips: “So, no […]
Treat Yourself Like You Want to be Treated: Why Self-Care Matters for Your Connections
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks; it’s about taking charge of your well-being. When we prioritize our physical and mental health, we become more patient, compassionate, and energetic. This positive energy spills over into our interactions with others, fostering better relationships. The way you treat yourself sets the standard for how others […]
Beyond “Are You Okay?”: A Disaster Recovery Trick for Genuine Support
I naturally want to swoop in and “fix” things when I see someone stressed. But sometimes, good intentions can backfire. I might inadvertently enable or belittle someone’s struggle. Rather than imposing my help, I try to remember to ask “How can I help you (right now)?” It’s a simple question used in disaster recovery situations, […]
The Fixer
When someone comes to me with a problem, my inclination is to find solutions. I think we’ve all felt this way; if someone we love is struggling through something, we want to use our knowledge and our resources to help them resolve their issue as quickly as possible. Why, then, do leading experts say that […]
Mad About You
Some people think that because I’m interested in practicing mindfulness and work on my well-being means I never get angry, sad, or disappointed. The truth is, I experience a full range of emotions. My intention with self-work isn’t to suppress emotions, but to manage them productively. My goal is to respond rationally rather than react […]
What’s Your Problem
If you came to me with a problem a few years ago, my initial response would likely have been to immediately find a way to take that problem from you and try to fix it. I couldn’t manage the image of you being in pain and I would volunteer to endure the pain for you […]
Remember The Tinman
“And remember the Tin Man found he had what he thought he lacked. Remember the tin man. Go find your heart and take it back.” – Tracy Chapman (song: Remember The Tinman) Life can be harsh, and there have been times when my heart felt broken, even stolen, leaving me feeling like a victim of […]