Google the word “neuroplasticity” and you’ll find numerous articles on the latest advances in brain science. While new findings in brain research have been popularized by the mainstream media since the 1990’s, even more significant discoveries are being made in the 21st century. Read more
Perhaps you’ve been trying some of the tips outlined in the last issue for dealing with daily dilemmas. How do you handle the weightier decisions that have an even greater impact on your life? Following are several approaches you can use. Read more
When I was growing up and having a difficult time making a decision, my father would tell me about the proverbial horse that starved to death while deciding between two bails of hay. This story has its origins in a similar tale told by Aristotle in which a man who has access to both food and drink remains unmoved because he is as hungry as he is thirsty. When faced with what we perceive as equivalent choices, the result can be a state of terminal indecision. Read more
The last two issues have addressed what to do When Overwhelm is on the Rise. This uncomfortable feeling can actually be a helpful indicator, if you pause long enough to ask, “What do I need?” The answer might point you to: a better organizational system, communicating more clearly, letting go of something, or simply realizing that you are at your limit and need a break. Read more
Imagine you are out to dinner with a friend at a popular new restaurant. The waiter asks what you would like to have and you proceed to order every item on the menu! While this may be tempting, you know that it is neither possible nor desirable to consume all that food. You must make a selection. Read more
It seems that a fact of modern life is getting acquainted with the state of overwhelm. We are overwhelmed by the speed of information coming at us, conflicting demands on our time, and the myriad of choices we have. While it’s true that being in overload from time to time comes with the territory, there is a significant difference between overwhelm as a temporary state and overwhelm as a bad habit or way of life. The cost of operating this way all the time is that urgency tends to rule and our ability to solve problems or be creative is eroded, along with our overall effectiveness and sense of accomplishment. Read more
I walked into my friend’s office to pick her up for our morning ritual: a quick cup of coffee before our busy days took off. With pen in hand, she seemed quite pleased with what she had just written. “I’ll be ready in a minute. I’m just finishing my To-Don’t List.” I looked at her curiously. Read more