Prediction Predicament
Imagine there’s a filter between each of us and our life experiences, allowing in some details and blocking out others. We believe we’re encountering the world directly, as it truly…
Resilient Mindset
Resiliency is the capacity of a substance “to spring back into shape after bending, stretching, or being compressed.” Though devastating circumstances or upsetting world events might leave us feeling flattened…
Your Habit Change Mindset
Happy New Year! Whatever habit changes you want to make now or throughout the year, set yourself up for success by embracing an Action-Able Mindset. Here are the 3 Cs…
Gratitude as an Antidote to Craving
The season of indulgence has begun. If you received trick-or-treaters at your home, then you may still have leftover candy tempting you. Thanksgiving offers a delicious feast, served up with…
How to Develop Your Joyspan
I was surprised to realize recently that it’s been 10 years this month since I published Optimistic Aging: from Midlife to the Good Life. It’s been a delight to connect…
Awakening from Numbness
Today, as my heart came back online and my tears began to flow, relief also washed over me. I’d felt numb in the prior days while reading of starving Palestinians…
Practice Self-Compassion
Imagine that a dear friend calls you in distress. How would you respond? What would you say? What would your tone of voice sound like? Now, consider how you talk…
Offering Peace
The most important gift you can give to your loved ones won’t be found at a store or fit into a box. Offer peace to yourself and others this holiday…
The 90-Second Rule of Emotion
Neuroscientist Jill Bolte Taylor concluded that the physiological activation of emotion only lasts about 90 seconds. But what we do during that minute and a half determines if the feelings…
The Paradox of Aging: the Happiness U-Curve
When imagining aging, most middle-aged people look ahead with trepidation. But take heart: the best is likely yet to come! Satisfaction surveys have found that happiness increases after middle age,…