We like to think that when tragedy strikes, those who survive should count their lucky stars for not being among the ones who were less fortunate. That’s not always the case. When dealing with tragedy, there’s no telling how you might react. Maybe you feel grateful that you survived, grieve those who didn’t, and try … Read more
Let’s say you have five tasks on your to-do list. You take a sip of coffee, look at each task, and after a couple of minutes, you already know how to start your day. Even though you’re not fully aware of the process, during those couple of minutes, your mind does a detailed analysis to … Read more
Our relationship with our caregivers is the foundation on which we build all future relationships. How our parents and grandparents respond to our emotional needs dictates how we relate to attachment, emotional security, and rejection. When you grow up in a family environment characterized by abandonment, trauma, or inconsistent parenting, you develop a deep sense … Read more
OCD is an anxiety disorder that affects roughly 1.2% of the world’s population. Characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, this condition can interfere with your daily life and relationship. The intrusive thoughts that people with OCD experience can gravitate around irrational fears and chronic doubts, leading to a series of repetitive, reassurance-seeking behaviors known … Read more
From gaslighting and shaming to rationalization and emotional blackmail, narcissists have an entire arsenal of strategies to manipulate, assert dominance, and achieve their personal goals. What’s left in their wake is suffering, abuse and emotional trauma, especially if the people close to them (personally and professionally) are caring, trusting, and compassionate individuals. As a mental … Read more
“Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another, and feeling with the heart of another.” I believe this quote by Alfred Adler perfectly represents what empathy should look like. In other words, to empathize means to put aside your views, opinions, and impressions so that you can create enough … Read more
Every human interaction involves an exchange of information wrapped up in emotions. Think about the last time you talked to someone about an unpleasant event you’ve gone through. Or a pleasant one. You presented various details (information) about the event, but you also conveyed a certain emotional vibe. The emotional experience helps the other person … Read more
One of the universal needs that define human experience is the need for connection. Whether it’s with family, friends, or a significant other, the attachments you forge throughout life play a fundamental role in your sense of happiness and well-being. However, the way you look for and obtain these connections is different, depending on the … Read more
Think about the last time you were in a difficult situation, the kind of situation that requires prompt action. Something like a tough decision you couldn’t postpone, a heated argument with someone, a sudden and unexpected change, or even a life-and-death event where you had to act fast. It’s difficult to determine how one would … Read more
Emotions are one of the most fascinating and complex phenomena that the human brain can generate. In essence, human emotions are a quick and relatively rudimentary form of information processing that can play a significant role in many areas of your life. Emotions can prompt decisions, strengthen interpersonal relationships, signal potential threats to your physical … Read more