We all want to be in control. Life is full of unexpected developments and undesirable outcomes, so it’s just natural to try to control what we can. Sometimes, though (especially with loved ones), there is the danger of imposing this … Continue reading →

I appreciate all the email and calls I receive in response to Life’s A Beach! Not only is it nice to know that somebody’s out there reading these words, but I also get inspiration for future topics. One of the … Continue reading →

It’s probably safe to say that we all tell lies at one time or another. Most likely they’re ‘little white lies’ to spare somebody’s feelings, or to get out of some commitment—either work, or a promise we should never have … Continue reading →

‘It’s a jungle out there. Disorder and confusion everywhere’People think I’m crazy, ’cause I worry all the time. If you paid attention, you’d be worried too.’ Composer Randy Newman’s theme song from the celebrated TV series ‘Monk’ (USA Network) perfectly … Continue reading →

‘Why am I feeling down? I know there are people with problems a lot worse than mine, so why do I always feel sorry for myself?’ I hear this all the time. It’s a perfectly reasonable observation, but it doesn’t … Continue reading →

Life, like anything of value, isn’t free, and stress is part of the price we pay for living. But stress isn’t always unhealthy; it can be a signal that you’re accomplishing productive and important things—your career, raising kids, or enjoying … Continue reading →

Psychologist and researcher Dr. Martin Seligman, author of ‘Authentic Happiness’ (2004, Free Press), asserts that happiness has three components:(1) mood, (2) meaning, and, (3) how engagedpeople are in what they’re doing. ‘You could think of [these] as three different ‘takes’ … Continue reading →

‘I love my kids!’ I hear it all the time. But sometimes love, by itself, isn’t enough. Children are a central theme with many of my clients, and I have learned much about what to do—and what NOT to do. … Continue reading →

I was at the red light at Rts. 113 and 20 last week when a large pickup truck blatantly sped through the light—on the shoulder and around the stopped cars. He never looked. He never slowed down. Drivers on the … Continue reading →

A Wave reader in South Bethany writes: Dear Dr. Hurd, I loved your column [January 25, 2006] describing resort dwellers as ‘outlaws.’I agree with everything you said, and I do consider myself self-sufficient and capable of ‘being alone without being … Continue reading →

Do you have a neighbor who ‘drops in’ any time of day—uninvited? Do you know a child who can’t keep his hands off of other people’s property? Do you have friends who call you and expect you to be available … Continue reading →

Recent medical and psychological studies have shown that a smile is a whole lot more than just a ‘frown turned upside down.’ Did you know that high-tech medical imaging has shown that the sight of a smiling face makes the … Continue reading →