I’ve had to develop some strategies for coping over the summer.  Mostly because of all that I wanted to do, and the potential overwhelm which often comes along. Coping is thought of in two ways Problem focused and Emotion focused coping. Sometimes one type is enough in a situation and at others both types of…

The quality of your relationships is the single biggest predictor of your happiness, and a strong predictor for health. While the 12 activities identified in this series of articles have been shown to increase happiness, for most people, nurturing positive relationships has more impact than other activities.  Even if nurturing relationships doesn’t show up in…

How is it going with trying on happiness practices? Having a couple weeks between posts offers you an opportunity to invest in each practice for a limited time, to experiment. Kindness is a practice which all of you are familiar with. Kindness is not only good for the recipient, it is also good for the…

Wait a minute here, weren’t we taught to think things through and be analytical. Being a health care professional we rely on our analytical skills throughout the day. “WNL,” isn’t it important to know what the norm is?. There is a fine line that gets crossed when you go from thinking to overthinking – endlessly…

Things don’t always turn out for the best, but there are some who can make the best of what turns out. Looking at the bright side, finding the silver lining in a cloud, giving yourself the benefit of the doubt are all ways of cultivating optimism. Knowing in the midst of difficulties that they are…

This is my go to strategy to feel better. When I was burnt out, and even now, when I feel overwhelmed, by taking the time to appreciate the good in my life, my perspective shifts so that I can see beyond the immediate responsibilities and stressors. Being exposed to people’s complaints, time pressures and patients’…