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
Few things are more annoying than being nagged (except perhaps being accused of it). Nagging stems from anxiety over the false belief that repetition creates motivation. It never does, and in fact, it lowers respect and reveals weakness by implying, … Continue reading
A reader emails that she’s resentful over other people’s success. Rich people, TV stars, neighbors who are thriving in business … she feels they are all bringing her down with their accomplishments. Well, imitation may be the sincerest form of … Continue reading
It’s rarely a good idea to mix business with friendship. It may seem perfectly natural to go into business with, or to employ (or be employed by) your friend, but those who have actually done that know that the relationship … Continue reading
A Delaware Wave reader sent me this note: “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 … Continue reading
No doubt you’re aware that text messaging is a quick and easy way to communicate using a cell phone. Abbreviated phrases are typed out and instantly transmitted to the recipient’s cell phone screen. For some, it’s a primary method of … Continue reading
I have a friend who, when confronted about something he did wrong, will often end his explanation with, “Well, it’s not an excuse, but it IS a reason.” Though it always gets a chuckle, the expression doesn’t really resolve anything. … Continue reading
“Many a truth is said in jest.” But where does joking end, and emotional abuse begin? One of the most common complaints I hear about people from family members or friends is that, “She pretends that she’s joking, but I … Continue reading
I recently wrote an article saying that alcoholism and substance abuse are not diseases, but problem behaviors. A disease, I wrote, is something that, regardless of the cause, progresses inside your body, and can only be stopped by passive submission … Continue reading
We all know at least one person who complains about pretty much everything. He or she has nothing good to say, and (gleefully) zeros in on other people’s weaknesses — real or exaggerated. I’ve learned from experience that people do … Continue reading
People often ask me if there is one primary rule for communication in a successful relationship. From my experience, I would say that the most overlooked area of communication is the simple act of listening. People often assume that listening … Continue reading
Each of us probably knows at least one person who deals with relationships and responsibilities in an “indirectly direct” way, i.e., failing to get things done — but always ready with an excuse. This type of personality is referred to … Continue reading