There seems to be a lot of blame and shame flying around nowadays. But blame and shame are not healthy or effective motivators. People sometimes try to motivate you with shaming and blaming, and sadly, these methods are such a … Continue reading
There’s no denying that texting, emailing, instant messaging and all the rest can make life so much easier. But along with the good comes the bad: spam, phishing and all sorts of fraud have also grown out of instantaneous communication. … Continue reading
Barely a day goes by when yet another promise is broken or ignored in politics. Sadly, this trend can also extend into everyday life. My experience suggests that promise-breaking points to a lack of character. What gives rise to the … Continue reading
People often ask me to define cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in simple terms. Interestingly enough, a great example of CBT in action comes from an unlikely source: Chef Robert Irvine’s Food Network series, Restaurant Impossible. FoodTV.com says that, “Turning around … Continue reading
For many years, “conventional wisdom” (sometimes not wisdom at all) has preached to us that “suffering strengthens character”. We nod wisely and walk away – while quietly wondering how that can possibly be the case. What suffering can actually do … Continue reading
A Delaware Coast Press reader emails that her father always cautioned her that “the grass is always greener,” i.e., that she should keep searching for something better than what she already has. She asks me if an endless quest for … Continue reading
Rarely does a day go by that people don’t talk to me about their jobs. I believe that the best motivation for work is happiness and fulfillment. It’s true that fulfillment might not happen all at once, but the activity … Continue reading
The literal meaning of “normal” is nothing less than – and regrettably nothing more than – average. When people tell me they want to be normal, I cringe. After all, why do they aspire to just average? I can understand … Continue reading
People often ask me if it’s a sign of true friendship to ignore a friend’s flaws? My answer: No, not necessarily. If someone is your friend, doesn’t it make sense to try and stop her from making a mistake? You … Continue reading
The season for valentines is just around the corner. How do I know that? Well, it’s when I get the most requests for insight into the things that couples complain about the most – and there are so many: kids, … Continue reading
A Delaware Wave reader emails that her father used to tell her to “not be a quitter.” But when she realizes she’s fighting a losing battle, she feels guilty just “letting it go.” She asks at what point being a … Continue reading
Lately it has become fashionable to label people who have accomplished great things as being “arrogant.” The reason for this is best left to another column, but I suspect we wouldn’t be enjoying many of our conveniences and comforts were … Continue reading