The Truth about Progress: Lapses and Relapses

Although I no longer support people specifically with their mental health, one of the key lessons I picked up from teaching cognitive therapy tools was the differentiation between a Lapse and a Relapse; which is a concept that applies to any form of progress we’re looking to make.   Let’s begin with some definitions. These are not necessarily the dictionary definitions, but they are how I have come to see… Read More »The Truth about Progress: Lapses and Relapses

Why Change Is So Damn Hard

When we want to make a change, we essentially want to ‘learn’ something. Learning is considered a “permanent change in behaviour which occurs as a function of experience.”   But there is a force working against us. Nope, not aliens. Nor Nazis. Nope, no Jedis here… In the human body there is a state called Homeostasis. In Greek, it literally means “Staying similar.” This mechanism is entirely devoted to keeping… Read More »Why Change Is So Damn Hard

Secret Weapon #3: Consider Future You

As humans, we are somewhat separated from other animals by our ability to plan ahead, to use forward thinking. By the fact we understand the concept of the future. Yet, it’s something we don’t utilise enough.  This is not a new idea. We worry, “what if X happens?” and “how will I make that work?” But one of the most useful tools I use is considering the me-of-the-future and how… Read More »Secret Weapon #3: Consider Future You

Why Is Gratitude Such A Big Deal In The Self Help Realm?

When it comes to self development advice, we’re bombarded. One thread comments on the importance of setting actionable goals.  Another strand emphasises the role of visualisation and acting ‘as if.’  A third route professes the strength behind gratitude and just letting things naturally form in their own way: finding the opportunities and just saying Yes. Today I want to talk about gratitude. It’s a big deal in the self-development and… Read More »Why Is Gratitude Such A Big Deal In The Self Help Realm?
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How To See Brokenness Through The Eyes of a Fearful Cat

This afternoon I was at my desk typing some edits onto my manuscript. Smoke was resting his damaged hip, snoozing on a cardboard box. I heard the noise, one cat-owners have likely heard at some point, and slowly walked towards Ember, and her fresh pile of vomit.  I told my friend I would be right back because she’d been sick, and my friend suggested I give her a cuddle.  … Read More »How To See Brokenness Through The Eyes of a Fearful Cat
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How to Improve Your Life Without Self-Discipline

Ever heard of self-care described as self-parenting? It’s kind of true, isn’t it?   I don’t currently have children, but I have a husband and two cats. [Sometimes, they can feel like children.] And I work with under-19s in my dayjob, so I’m not entirely oblivious. And with my pets, I set boundaries and hold expectations. I am their main carer; thus, it is my duty to ensure their basic… Read More »How to Improve Your Life Without Self-Discipline
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Harness Your History: Broken Glass

Last week I walked into the bathroom, with its mottled brown tiled floor, and my foot just walked into an empty pint glass. My husband had left it just inside the door; either from finishing a drink or putting a spider out: I never did ask him…  But my foot nudged it, and it fell. Somehow, it managed to entirely shatter across the whole floor.    I was instantly pulled… Read More »Harness Your History: Broken Glass