The majority of our emotional responses result from how we interpret a situation. People go to amusement parks to be intentionally scared out of their wits on roller coasters. We term the heart-pounding and adrenalin rush experienced in such situations “excitement”, but if we endure the same sensations due to an unplanned event, such as […]

“I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” (Albert Schweitzer) It turns out that those who serve are a whole lot more likely to be physically healthy, too, down to […]

So, another school year begins, and students once again apply themselves to their studies, vying for top grades and possibly a spot at a prized university. Regardless of our academic achievements, we learned (or should have learned) many important lessons in school. Pay attention in class. Be receptive to new information. Be willing to look […]

When we’re immersed in depression or anxiety, finding some semblance of happiness or purpose in life can feel almost impossible. Depression makes even the smallest task feel like a monumental effort, and anxiety tends to make us run from or avoid people and experiences. Our self-confidence decreases, as we tend to forget that at one […]

Healthy self-esteem is comprised of self-worth, self-confidence, and self-acceptance. It does not mean that we are proud, arrogant, or think that we’re inherently better than other people, but that we feel worthy of respect and as if we are of value. In this state, we’re able to let go of self-centeredness, because we aren’t preoccupied […]

Look at every path closely and deliberately. Try it as many times as you think necessary. Then ask yourself, and yourself alone… Does this path have a heart? If it does, the path is good. If it doesn’t, it is of no use. Carlos Casteneda   Whether it’s an addiction or our just having gotten […]

“Everything you are against weakens you. Everything you are for empowers you.”  Wayne Dyer Coming to terms with one’s current personal difficulties is vital for personal growth and to live a fulfilling and happy life. Maybe you struggle with a tendency toward anger or depression. Perhaps you’ve found yourself in a destructive pattern of drinking […]

Near my home there are two daunting staircases that at all hours of the day or night are populated with zealous fitness folk, zipping or dragging their way up and down. The stairs are hundreds of steps, and, at least for me, one set up and down is no small feat. However, being overly ambitious, […]

Often the difference between success and falling short of our aims lies in pacing. It’s natural to be invigorated by the surge of adrenalin that accompanies a new project or idea, and to start off with a bang. Perhaps you wake up in the morning feeling all fired up by your fresh project, work late […]