future self
My Thoughts

Becoming Your Future Self: Part 1

The word “becoming” might call to mind Michelle Obama’s best selling memoir, but if you haven’t read it, what does the word mean to you? The dictionary defines differently from how I am writing about it here: ~to have a flattering or attractive effect, or something suitable or appropriate for a particular person (i.e. That new hairstyle is becoming).  I don’t hear the word being used much in this way, but it is connected in an interesting way to the origins of the word, which mean: meet with, fall in with; arrive, approach. I think the word becoming needs an updated definition that combines

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My Thoughts

Non-Toxic Positivity

Given that we are in the midst of a worsening pandemic, many of us are trying to focus on the positive; which is a great coping technique. But positivity comes in different forms, and they’re not all good for you. Lets’ explore how to differentiate between toxic and non-toxic positivity. “It could always be worse.” “Look on the bright side.” “Everything will work out.” Sometimes well-meaning people say these things because they just don’t know what else to say. And, yes things could often be be worse, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a valid reason for being upset.  Plus, things don’t always

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My Thoughts

Science says: Count your blessings

We’ve all heard the phrase “count your blessings.” Likely from our Grandmas. It’s been around along time, originating in a hymn from the 1800’s. Science is now proving that we should most definitely be following Grandma’s advice. In fact, our well-being might hinge on our ability to focus on our blessings more than we focus on our barriers. I had a serendipitous moment this week. Just a few days ago, I went for a run, running halfway in one direction and then turning around to head back.  When I turned around, I immediately noticed that there was a very strong and constant wind blowing

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Book Review

The Good Life

We all want to live a good life.  We want to be happy, we want those we love to be happy, we even want our pets to be happy.  But what does this really mean?  Does it mean that our main objective is to live a life filled with only positive emotions- pleasure, comfort, excitement? Most of us are aware enough to realize that perpetual happiness is an impossible dream.  Many of us are also aware that we desire more than just happiness; we want meaning, purpose and engagement in our lives. We may have a desire to serve something greater than ourselves even

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