A friend of mine, whose husband died less than a year ago was recently asked, “How long are you supposed to keep grieving?” I was compelled to share my reaction to the question. My first answer was, “What a stupid question. That is all I have to say about that…for...
How do you keep on being positive when you encounter or work with someone who is negative? Being with someone who exudes the opposite of your positive, bubbly, hopeful, optimistic attitude is challenging. At one job I was told not to laugh. No, I did not work in a...
Theoretical models for grief Some early ideas on grief advocate a cognitive adaptation theory (CAT) (1983) that postulates that after a trauma comes personal growth permeated through maintenance of self-protection processes and the boost of self-esteem (Taylor, 1983)....
The world of self-help has gotten very complex. There are umpteen theories and tools to increase your wellbeing, happiness and success. I use mind-set tools, emotional processes, behavioural practises and frequently I dive deep into the spiritual world. For me,...
Recently an ex Facebook employee said the platform is ‘destroying how society works’. Even Facebook has now admitted that too much use of its platform can damage people’s mental health. This applies to various social networks, not just Facebook. Social media is...
When we face adversity, I find I get to know myself better. This is because it shines the light onto the areas that cement me in my fears. However, I find these challenging times, which storms my world from peace, is enough on its own, without the well of despair from...
As I write this blog, I am sitting in my kitchen steaming a homemade Christmas pudding. It takes 8 hours to cook, so I have plenty of time to get into festive mood and reflect on my personal thoughts on this seasonal celebration. I feel privileged that my blog will be...
When you lose someone you love, they remain lost, but eventually those left behind do find themselves again. Men and showing emotions It is often said that most men do not show their emotions – but this is not true. What is true is that most men do not show their...
If you’re thinking of making a New Year Resolution I don’t want to throw water on your fire but, the odds are against you. 80% of resolutions fail by February in America (1) and about 60% of people who make resolutions in the UK will quit within 3 months (2). The...
A paradigm shift of consciousness on all levels seems to be gathering momentum. A shift from old habitual negative patterns. Those restrictive patterns that fear bound thinking, emotions and behaviours bring about, to a new positive pattern of adventure, joy and...