Each of us probably knows at least one person who deals with relationships and responsibilities in an ‘indirectly direct’ way; failing to get things done — but always ready with an excuse. This type of personality is referred to as … Continue reading
Category: Life’s a Beach!
Listen Up!
People often ask me if there is one primary rule for communication in a successful relationship. Well, speaking from my professional experience, I would say that the most overlooked area of communication is: Listening. People often assume that listening is … Continue reading
The Antidote to Envy
A reader emails that she’s resentful and unhappy over other people’s success. Rich people, TV stars, neighbors who are thriving in business ‘ she feels they all are bringing her down with their accomplishments. Well, dear Reader, ‘imitation is the … Continue reading
Do It Yourself
I have an acquaintance who is an entrepreneur; owning businesses and employing people his entire life. In order to fill his spare time in his retirement, he recently took a job working in a small specialty store. Money was not … Continue reading
Nag, Nag, Nag!
Few things are more annoying than being nagged (except perhaps being accused of it). Nagging comes from anxiety, based on the false belief that repetition creates motivation. But it never does. In fact, it lowers respect for the one who … Continue reading
Unhealthy Escapes
‘I need a drink!’ ‘I’ve had a hard day. I need a nice big meal — or a cigarette!’ Sometimes, in the face of stress, and often without even realizing it, we use drugs, alcohol and even food to ‘self-medicate.’ … Continue reading
Troubled Times
Many people are cutting back on their spending because of the current “economy.” This makes sense — provided that these conditions are merely a reminder of what they should have been doing all along. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for … Continue reading
Failure is Opportunity
People sometimes say to me how concerned they are that they — or their children — not be ‘losers.’ They’re almost always surprised when I tell them that, in a certain context, losing can actually be GOOD for your mental … Continue reading
Imagination: Uniquely Human
It’s hard to believe, but (for those of you who are counting) this is my 200th column for The Delaware Wave! Though you’d be hard pressed to find a nicer bunch of folks than the Wave staff, I’m equally gratified … Continue reading
To Thine Own Self…
Dear Dr. Hurd, A long-time acquaintance recently passed away after a dreadful bout with cancer. The point is that most of the people she knew didn’t like her. She had her good qualities, but, frankly, she used people, was obnoxious, … Continue reading
Pay off your Sleep Debt!
I’ll bet that many of you can remember the childhood thrill of ‘going on vacation.’ The preparation, counting the days — and the getting up at 3 or 4 in the morning to leave. Through the fog of fitful backseat … Continue reading
No Regrets
Over the years, I have talked to countless depressed people, and one thing I’ve learned is that regrets are a profound waste of time. The emotional cost of dwelling on ‘what could have been’ is just not worth it. I … Continue reading