Relationships

Why Should I Keep a Gratitude Journal?

Why Should I Keep a Gratitude Journal?

Gratitude is a feeling of appreciation for what brings us joy, inspiration, meaning, and purpose. Feelings of appreciation arise from a wide range of sources, however, research suggests that consciously giving thanks can profoundly affect our well-being and relationships. The benefits of keeping a gratitude journal have been researched extensively. Some of the key benefits are…

Overhaul Your Relationships

Overhaul Your Relationships

What gives us meaning and purpose in our lives are the relationships we have with others. However, some relationships are no longer supportive or nourishing. Some may be draining or even toxic. Not all relationships are meant to be forever. Life is too short to spend time with people that don’t build you up and make you happy. Here’s some ideas on what to do…

The Impact of Gratitude on Relationships

The Impact of Gratitude on Relationships

Research shows that being thankful for close relationships and one’s circumstances is an adaptive, natural coping response to a threatening situation (Fredrickson et al., 2003). Here’s more on gratitude’s positive influence on relationships and why it’s never been more important.

Hey, Did You Hear That…?

Hey, Did You Hear That…?

"Gossip separates the best of friends." Most of us associate gossip with a malicious intention to enjoy relaying negative information about someone (Beersma & Van Kleep, 2012). However, in scientific literature, gossip is often defined differently.. What should we believe, and should we control our urge to “gossip”?

Don't Go to Bed Mad

Don't Go to Bed Mad

Most of us have heard the saying, “The best way to maintain a healthy relationship is to not go to bed mad.” This is rather good advice even if it wasn’t based in research…until now. While we can’t control all the stressors that come into our lives, making a conscious effort to resolve conflict can be a means to substantially reduce our stress level. Here are some tips to consider…

Shaming Others

Shaming Others

As I recover from having COVID-19 late last year, I am stunned by how much shaming I hear and see. I'm sure I am sensitive to this because of my experience, but it seems that there is a lot more shaming than compassion and care. Let’s take a look at why people resort to shaming and what to do about it.

Pandemic Fatigue

Pandemic Fatigue

After months of socially restricting our interactions, we are restless and long for the company of family and friends. Some of us are even showing signs of more serious psychological distress, such as depression and anxiety. And, during the holidays, we saw people choose to ignore the advice from experts and participate in family gatherings, often flying to see them while others complied and stayed at home. So, why do some people comply and others do not?