Happiness + Contentment + Self-worth = Well-being For the past few weeks, in these posts I have been exploring the looming self-worth crisis that is, I believe, behind much of our historic levels of anxiety and depression. Could a self-esteem catastrophe be fueling our societal edginess as well? Is this why the great resignation is...Read More

“Thou canst not think worse of me than I do of myself.” Robert Burton, The Anatomy of Melancholy Lately I’ve been wondering whether a self-worth crisis is lurking behind much of our societal edginess and personal sadness. Could a self-esteem catastrophe be fueling our historic levels of anxiety and depression? Is this why the great...Read More

I’ve learned to slam on the brake Before I even turn the key Before I make the mistake Before I lead with the worst of me Give them no reason to stare No slippin’ up if you slip away So I got nothing to share No, I got nothing to say On the outside, always...Read More

Last week I suggested that the people we lead or love might be performing poorly or unable to focus because there’s something going on behind their eyes you just can’t see. They are worried, constantly rehearsing their pain and fears. This requires empathy, patience and listening. How are you doing with that? I really wish...Read More

A few days ago, I had a terribly unnerving experience. While on a Target run, I noticed a young man with a camera walking around the store videotaping people. It was odd and discomforting. As I turned the corner at the end of an aisle, I was confronted by another young man who said, “I...Read More

I once worked for a leader who had zero empathy. For instance, he regularly brought his dog to work. I told him I was allergic to some animals and might struggle if I had to enter his office. His solution?  “Well, you don’t need to come into my office.” Another time, in one of my...Read More

Human beings matter to me. They always have. Since the fall of 1972, much of my life has been focused on helping and guiding other human beings.  That was when the pastor of my church pulled me aside and encouraged me (twisted my arm?) to form a group of teenagers into a choir to perform...Read More

I have started and deleted a number of posts reflecting on the two mass murders that are gripping our nation. I have listened to and read many opinions regarding solutions to our “plunge backward and downward toward barbarism”. Some responses have been thoughtful and made me think hard and long. Too many have been idiotic,...Read More

I thought it was allergies that were making me feel miserable. Turns out it was something more sinister. Despite not one, but four vaccine shots and boosters, I have contracted COVID. My symptoms aren’t too bad, and I quickly got on one of the anti-viral meds available to me, so, it looks like I’ll rebound...Read More

Most of us – myself included – are regularly too worked up to get ahold of ourselves and settle down. We are both distracted and exhausted. We are unable to be at rest. This was the idea behind my newsletter and blog post of last week. At the end, I suggested we do a focus/rest...Read More