For When You’re Feeling Shame

Shame compounds. Of all of the negative emotions, shame is the worst. Anxiety subsides when we avert a threat. Sadness … More

Being Great Isn’t That Great: The Inevitable Distorted Thinking Involved in Success and High Achievement

Why are we chronically unsatisfied? Someone close to me once told me that she wanted to have everything she wanted … More

A CBT Approach to Understanding and Dealing with Anger

Anger is a threat; anger results from threats; anger is righteous; anger is destructive; anger is defensive; anger is hopeful; … More

In Praise of Mediocrity

“… I keep pushing that rock up the hill over and over and it keeps falling back. And then I … More

Living with Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is often confused with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is more about rituals, mental or … More

The Downside of Pride: How We Use Ambition to Mask Vulnerability and Weakness

Ambition and vulnerability struggle to co-exist. The more successful and neurotic you are, the less likely you’re willing to exhibit … More

Battling the Demon of Idealism: Why You Don’t Have to Be Obsessed with Becoming Great

I’m not an idealist. I don’t consider myself to be an amazing therapist, writer, or human. To possess any of … More

Why Success Often Leaves You Feeling Empty

They tell you to stay hungry, but what if there really isn’t any other choice? I don’t know whether you … More

Stuck in Indecision: Why Are We Terrified of Making Choices?

I spent most of my life living in fear. As a kid, I was terrified of the dark and sleeping … More

Everyday Masochism: Why Are We Workaholics?

Masochism is self-discipline run amok. Human nature seems to reside in extremes. I don’t know why, but when we do … More