Regardless of your life roles, it is easy to get overwhelmed, overworked, and exhausted. We think thoughts like: We probably wouldn’t say it out loud, but beneath all of our unspoken thoughts is a need to be needed. When we feel needed and important, we internalize those feelings and interpret them as value–“Someone needs me; … Read more
Recently a friend and colleague said, “I’ve finally gotten to the point in my life where I don’t give my time away to just anyone for just anything.” The person who said that is not a greedy person; he is generous, especially with his circle of family and friends. Recently, he returned to the work … Read more
My daughter Mara makes astute observations. During a conversation about the importance of self-care, she said, “Even when you do something in your time off, it’s focused on reaching goals. “Do you ever just do something to do it?” I proceeded to give her examples of how I practice self-care. Mara was unimpressed. She pointed out the intentions … Read more
It has been a year since the world turned up side down. Whereas the lockdowns are easing, people are getting vaccinated, and life is beginning to look more like “normal,” we are faced with a hard truth: people are burned out and mental health problems continue to increase. One positive result of the pandemic is … Read more
Human beings don’t like uncertainty. Uncertainty brings with it a higher possibility of change, which humanity also doesn’t like. “The way it has always been” is a source of security and comfort; it quells our natural anxiety and makes life predictable. Change is difficult, because we unconsciously believe longevity equals good or best. The opposite … Read more
In the wake of this worldwide crisis, our first priority is taking care of our people. We’re hearing a lot of encouraging stories about organizations ensuring their internal people and the general public they care for their people during this time. At Group Dynamic, we basically have two people: DeAnne and Alan. Because I’m Alan, … Read more
In July of 2009, my family and I sat reading in a quiet lobby in a small inn in rural Prince Edward Island. It was about 9:45 p.m. This kind of thing is often hard for me. I like to move, change activities quickly, and have my senses stimulated. Those are all reasons I love … Read more