I keep hearing podcast hosts, new casters, and other people expressing disdain for 2020. They use phrases like: “I’m so glad it’s over.” “Nothing good came from 2020.” “Let’s just forget it and move toward something better in 2021.” “I’m sure everyone agrees with me.” I totally understand the sentiments of disdain. With all due […]
After living through months of isolation in the midst of a pandemic and stress of the societal tension, many hope for a peaceful holiday season, however different it may look. As I type these words, snow falls here in Chattanooga, symbolizing a glimpse of hope and renewal. Even still, many people deal with family issues, […]
The title of this particular blog may force a deep sigh for many of you. I think the general consensus is that 2020 has had an enormous strain on everyone. However, I am beginning to hear stories of some folk who are finding the good in it. So in an attempt to summarize, I will […]
Many people struggling with anxiety and intrusive thoughts, ask for ways to calm themselves and slow their minds. One of the best grounding techniques I’ve learned, along with deep breathing (7-11 breathing), is the 5 Thinking Hats Technique. It engages our senses, which is important because our senses ignite our thoughts. Our thoughts ignite an […]
A mentor and friend, Dr. Michael Godfrey, shared this quote with me recently, I know of no more potent killer than isolation. There is no more destructive influence on physical and mental health than the isolation of you from me and of us from them. -Dr. Philip Zimbardo In a world suffering from the throes […]
If you are a Star Wars fan, you might remember in Episode One, Anakin stands before the Jedi Council and Yoda says, “I sense much fear in you. Fear is the path to the Dark Side.” Here is a clip. The more I have worked with people through the years, the more I realize fear […]
Brene Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston, provides a great deal of research on human emotions. Her research suggests that the path to mental and emotional wellness is through vulnerability. “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. […]
As we continue to await the results of the election, tension builds for many folk. No matter the results, this election will affect people all over the world. No pressure, right? Now, we have to wait longer for the results… So how can you survive until we know the results? What about AFTER we know […]
Depending on your personality type and emotional health, it can feel really good to give a compliment. How often do you compliment others? Try it and see how it feels. Compliments require one to look for the good in someone else. Heaven knows we need that in our world! So take a moment and compliment […]
What causes depression? It’s a difficult question to answer. So difficult, in fact, that medical science still does not have a perfect answer. For now, we know that people become depressed for different reasons, due to factors both environmental and biological. Some people know exactly where their depression comes from, whereas others may have depression […]