Overthinking means unproductive thinking. I don’t like the term “overthinking” because it implies, incorrectly, that a certain amount of thinking is the right amount (what amount? never specified) and to go above or below it is irrational. This is no … Continue reading
Ultimately reason, facts and logic are more powerful than fear. The fear only seems powerful, but it isn’t, and once you start to ‘get’ this, it becomes easier. Fear is an indicator that you are in danger—not necessarily physical danger, … Continue reading
I realize that a rational person does not want to waste time. But wasting time implies knowingly squandering time. If you honestly believe you can accomplish something, and you seriously endeavor to do it, then you are not wasting time. … Continue reading
Discipline is the art of merging motivation with organization. You aren’t disciplined unless you’re dedicated to something. And you cannot be dedicated to something unless you WANT it. Before you strive to “learn discipline”, first figure out what you want.
I read a book some years ago called The Hamlet Syndrome. The book has some major flaws and I don’t necessarily recommend it, but one good point the book made had to do with the perils of thinking without action—i.e. … Continue reading
If a car is left in the garage, it’s not running or working. It can harm the car to be used too little, just as it can harm the car to be used too much, or in the wrong way. … Continue reading
People can sense it when you’re not being yourself, and that you’re trying to merely get a reaction out of them, or gain their approval. This indicates low self-confidence and weakness on your part, and some will strike back when they sense … Continue reading
I think what people really yearn for is not so much “unconditional love” — since we all love for reasons — as “uncomplicated love.” The purest form of love is NOT love without a self, love without reasons, or love … Continue reading
How you think about something does not change reality. But it does change the way you interact with, and act in, reality. This will often lead to real-life consequences. For example, you hear about “the self-fulfilling prophecy.” This is not … Continue reading
Self-discipline, self-esteem, and mental health all require a basic love of life. You either love life, or you don’t. If you do, you will take life seriously–and you will exhibit characteristics of self-discipline and good mental habits. If you don’t … Continue reading
It used to be that parental influences were thought to be all determining in an individual’s personality. Freud, and his successors, focused on such factors as the mother-child relationship and alleged infantile sexuality as the determining factor in human nature. … Continue reading
If someone important to you—a spouse, for example—becomes defensive or hostile, then she’s probably starting to lose touch with the facts. You will do your relationship, the person with whom you’re in temporary conflict, and even yourself no service by … Continue reading