Category Archives: Life lessons

Bronnie Ware, an Australian palliative care nurse has written a book called The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. I have yet to read her book, but I was deeply moved by an article on her powerful observations. It surprised … Continue reading →

There seems to be an epidemic of perfectionism sweeping the western world. Everyone is striving for excellence for themselves and for their children. Rather than increasing confidence and happiness levels, perfectionism causes general feelings of inadequacy. “Good enough” is often … Continue reading →

Watching a friend struggling with the pain of grief is distressing. We can feel paralysed as we sit on the sidelines feeling helpless. In truth, we are anything but helpless. We are desperately needed by our grieving friend. He or … Continue reading →

It happened again on Saturday night. When people discover that you’re a psychologist, they want to know if you analyse everyone you meet. They seem almost disappointed to learn that we don’t. In fact, we don’t really even analyse people … Continue reading →

I’m a huge fan of the to do list. Writing this week’s blog wouldn’t be done if it wasn’t on my list. I’m one of those people who have little lists everywhere – in my work diary, on my phone, … Continue reading →

Some people find it easy to relax. They can just stop and do nothing. But for many of us, having a day without any plans rarely ends in relaxation. More likely the time will be filled with chores and the … Continue reading →

Legally speaking, guilt refers to the fact of having committed an offense or a crime. Psychologically, it can also refer to the feeling of having done something wrong, whether real or imagined. For many people, feeling guilty is a default … Continue reading →

One of the most powerful life skills we can learn is the art of acceptance. When we fail to accept what happens in life, we risk constantly feeling resentful or like a victim. Obviously it takes time to get to … Continue reading →

Yesterday I heard a radio host announce that he had received an email full of praise. He was obviously pleased, but genuinely shocked to have received anything but criticism. The announcer’s comments reminded me of a client I saw recently … Continue reading →