We are all busy. Cell phones, computers, email, LinkedIn and Twitter should make our lives easier and can be wonderful teams to save us time. The problem is that it is in our nature to continue to expect to fill all of the time we save. We have created a world where the expectation is,

Every aspect of our lives, from personal and family interaction all the way to high pressured business interactions are packed with emotion. The degree to which the emotions of every circumstance control us is important in an analysis of how we can better respond in the future. Attitude can be taught. Emotions can be compartmentalized

There are so many stories we tell each other. They are like old records that skip or tape loops that we have been rehearsing to ourselves for years and years. Many of our stories have little to no basis in fact but we have accepted them as fundamental truths because they have been companions to

When we are unfulfilled, we are unhappy. When we are unhappy, we seek to fill the void. Understanding the values that fulfill us and make us happy is key to developing a plan to direct our attentions there. The more we remain focused on our true happiness, the more likely we are to continue through

Our level of dissatisfaction is directly proportional to the level at which we will take action. Our self-blame and introspection is the best method to motivate us to change. We can harness the power of these feelings in order to turn them into laser-like focus on that which we know that we want. Introspection is

There is a fine line between shame and guilt. But it is distinct and they are different. Shame is what others (society) place on us which may result in feelings of guilt. Guilt serves us. It is an internal felling or emotion that we can grow from and learn from. However, guilt is only purposeful

Rituals are behaviors we undertake repeatedly, in the same fashion, to convey an idea in order to achieve some type of catharsis for our sacrifices. Many employ use patterns that are ritualistic based upon stress, fear, boredom, happiness, sadness etc. Analyze your behavioral  patterns and understand that they exist. This is the first step in

For many, the use of substances is such a well-established and ingrained part of their lives that it becomes who they are. Substances define them as a person to others and themselves. In some circles this is favorable – we may be the life of the party. In others, it is damaging – let’s not

In every facet of life, we struggle with getting others to see the vision we have for ourselves. Likewise, we struggle to see the visions others may have. It is more difficult when we try to assume the values of others or when others want or expect us to assume their values. This disparity is

Many people are concerned and interested about the management of guilt. Another layer of this discussion must center on our self-perception. When we think about our paths to recovery we must realize that the world will continuously hand us challenges which are beyond our control. We do not typically wish to deprive others of their