We've all been there – that moment when we realize we need to have a conversation we'd rather avoid. Whether it's addressing a sensitive issue with a spouse, providing feedback to an employee, or confronting a friend about a misunderstanding, difficult conversations are an inevitable part...
Have you ever stopped to consider that you have a "people picker"? It might sound strange at first, but this internal compass plays a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of our lives. The people we choose to surround ourselves with - and who we allow to invest in us - have a profound impact on...
Have you ever stopped to consider the impact that the people in your life have on your personal growth, happiness, and overall well-being? The truth is, the relationships we cultivate can either propel us forward or hold us back. Understanding the difference between safe and unsafe people is...
Have you ever found yourself in a relationship–personal or professional–where you felt constantly overshadowed, undervalued, or even invisible? If so, you may have encountered a narcissist. Narcissism, often misunderstood and overused in casual conversation, is a complex personality...
Have you ever found yourself saying "yes" when you desperately wanted to say "no"? It's a common experience, one that can leave us feeling drained, resentful, and out of control. But what if I told you that learning to say "no" is not just a skill, but a vital tool for preserving your life, your...
Have you ever tried to have an important conversation with someone, only to find yourself completely off track moments later? You start by addressing a specific issue, but before you know it, you're defending yourself against accusations or discussing something entirely unrelated. This...
Life is full of choices, but have you ever stopped to consider why some decisions are particularly challenging? I've observed countless individuals grappling with what are sometimes called "incompatible wishes"–a common yet often overlooked source of personal and professional...
Have you ever felt caught between showing kindness and setting boundaries? Or struggled to find the right balance between compassion and accountability? If so, you're not alone. This tension is at the heart of what I call "The Big Divide"–a fundamental principle that shapes nearly every...
Have you ever encountered someone who dismisses the idea of therapy, insisting that prayer alone will solve their problems? Perhaps you've even found yourself in this mindset. It's a common stance, especially among people of faith, but it often stems from a misunderstanding of both faith and...
We often talk about fighting dysfunction one dynamic at a time, but what does that really mean in our day-to-day lives? Think of it as developing a kind of emotional and relational immunity. Just as our bodies build resistance to physical diseases, we can strengthen our ability to resist...
Have you ever wondered why some people seem to excel effortlessly in their careers and personal lives, while others struggle despite having similar qualifications? The answer might lie in a concept that's been around for decades but has gained significant attention in recent years: emotional...
Have you ever felt like you're not quite connecting with someone, despite your best efforts? Or perhaps you've found yourself reacting to a situation in a way that, upon reflection, seems out of proportion? These experiences are more common than you might think, and they stem from a fascinating...
