Can You Have Grit and Still Ask for Help?

I have always valued the work of Angela Duckworth whose book ‘Grit’ talks about how passion and perseverance play a key role in people achieving their goals.  So I was interested to read her article in the New York Times about one of the things that successful people have in common.  Is it brilliance?  Is it a strong work ethic?  Is it good luck?  No. It is knowing when it is the right time to ask other people for help.  It really struck a chord in me because I have been struggling with learning … [Read more...]

Neuroplasticity: How Your Brain Can Change and Why It Matters

Scientists used to think the brain could not be changed after childhood but now we know that is not true. The brain is constantly changing and that ability to change is called Neuroplasticity. Every thought, memory, movement, behavior or emotion is supported by networks of neurons communicating with one another. When you repeat an experience - whether good or bad - those connections strengthen. This is how habits form and it is also how you can change habits, with practice. For … [Read more...]

Why Seeing a Psychologist Can Be Life-Changing

It takes courage to start therapy. Chances are, whatever has been bothering you has been in your mind for a while and you have not been able to solve the problem on your own. So even if it feels scary, therapy provides a safe space to deal with thoughts and emotions, develop coping skills and improve your overall well-being.      One of the greatest benefits of therapy is that your relationship with your psychologist is confidential and non-judgemental. No matter how much you may be judging … [Read more...]

Quieting Your Inner Critic

    One may think that all eyes are on us when we’re out and about. We may hear an acquaintance say “Look at what she’s wearing today!” Comments like this may be normal but, ultimately, we are our own worst critic and it is vital that we not take it to heart. Recently I read an article in the New York Times titled Learn to Quiet Your Inner Critic by Christina Caron and in today’s day and age it couldn’t be more relevant.     Inner criticism stems from our constant want, not need, to be … [Read more...]

Helping Adults Cultivate Healthy Friendships

A recent article in the Washington Post by Ana Homayoun (https://www.washingtonpost.com/.../skills-friendship.../) laid out some rules to help parents encourage their children to develop good relationships with their peers. As I read it, I realized that the guidelines she laid out could also apply to adults. Why, you might ask, am I concerned about adults making friends? After all, don’t we already have them? Well, just like with children for whom making friends is a developmental task, as we … [Read more...]