Psychotherapist, Author, Estrangement Consultant
Whenever I hear the term “toxic person,” I picture a glow-in-the-dark green zombie covered in radioactive waste.
Personally, I consider this to be the proper definition of a toxic person. I don’t think too many people agree with me, though.
There are tons of blog posts out there, not to mention comments on Facebook and other social media, urging us to purge so-called toxic people from our lives.
Someone talks trash to you? Kick ’em to the curb. Read More
Now that spring is here, I thought I’d offer a few tips for some “relationship spring cleaning.”
Try these with your partner, friends, family, or even coworkers.
1. Listen more. Even if the other person already does most of the talking, how carefully do you typically listen? Challenge yourself to tune in to what they’re saying, rather than letting your mind wander.
2. Make time. The word “relationship” may be a noun, but “relate” is a verb. Read More
Psychotherapy has been called “The Talking Cure.”
It might be more accurate to call it “The Listening Cure.”
Being listened to is healing, because it’s a way to be understood.
And being understood is like a tall, cool drink on a hot summer day.
Marriage & family therapist Cynthia Lubox speaks eloquently about the power of being listened to in this article:
When Someone Really Listens, We Heal
The key word in the title above is “Really.” Read More
Think about someone who’s super irritating.
Have you ever thought about why they bug you so much?
If you’ve ever wondered, “Is it just me, or is this person incredibly irritating?,” here are some thoughts on how to figure it out.
It’s probably THEM if:
1. Most people who know them share your opinion.
If they would come in dead last in a popularity contest, there’s a reason. And it ain’t you.
2. You’re not usually triggered by the behavior this person is exhibiting. Read More