I recently wrote an article saying that alcoholism and substance abuse are problem behaviors, not diseases. A disease, I wrote, is something that can only be stopped by passive submission to medical intervention such as surgery or some sort of … Continue reading
So many people say, “A good marriage requires hard work and compromise.” Or, “The secret of our relationship is sacrifice.” Blah, blah. Well, I beg to differ: Life as a couple certainly does involve some negotiation from time to time, … Continue reading
People often say that an apology is a good way to have the last word. If that is so, then why is it difficult for many people to apologize — even when they know they’re wrong? I write a lot … Continue reading
I received a kind email from a reader who enjoyed my recent column where I suggested that how you feel is determined by how you think. She asks if that concept doesn’t open the door to rationalization and fooling yourself. … Continue reading
Success is wonderful. We all want it. But the road to success can be blocked by failure. Detouring around those roadblocks can be a challenge, but it’s not without its rewards. In her associatedcontent.com article, “Inspirational Stories of Famous Failures … Continue reading
The high holy days of masquerade are upon us! Rarely does a Halloween go by without people asking me about the psychology of costumes and disguise. Ancient mystical beliefs held that if you disguised yourself on All Hallows Eve, a … Continue reading
By the time you read this, the final notes of the 2022 Rehoboth Beach (Delaware) Jazz Festival will have faded away. Why does music have such a profound effect on most people? From the amateur flailings of semi-sober karaoke all … Continue reading
If you sometimes put off until tomorrow what you should really do today, you’re not alone. For some, their procrastination is so bad that it causes problems in their jobs and in their personal lives. If this sounds like you, … Continue reading
A Delaware Wave reader emailed, “While preparing to have my first child, I did some research and resolved that I was going to breast feed. I couldn’t wait to share this momentous decision with my aunt, with whom I feel … Continue reading
A reader sent me a comment about one of my columns where I suggested that the biggest mistake people make is to try to change others. She agrees that the choice of what to think and do will always be … Continue reading
After doing therapy or life coaching with people for over 35 years, one can’t help but notice patterns. Problems may take different forms, but the core issues often fall into just a few categories. Life doesn’t need to be as … Continue reading
It’s a rare moment when we don’t experience an emotion. But is it based in fact, or is it just a reaction (right or wrong) to some stimulus? When you experience an emotion, it’s important to identify it – but … Continue reading