One of the more difficult aspects of being a therapist is watching a patient repeatedly harm themself without being able … More
Tag: Philosophy
‘The Parable of the Chinese Farmer’ and Cognitive Flexibility
Perfectionists, in large part due to their general cognitive rigidity (e.g., the inability to hold multiple and seemingly conflicting perspectives … More
Following Beauty is the Key to Happiness
In the end, obsessiveness and perfectionism are mere stand-ins, or metaphors, less so symbolizing the chase for external success and … More
The Terrified Cynic: Why Some Prefer Depression to Anxiety
We fear life as much as death. And our cynicism, a persistent sense of hopelessness, is little more than a … More
The Cognitive Traps of Perfectionism
While each of us are the centers of our own universes, sometimes, our judgments of ourselves should be de-emphasized, especially … More
Addicted to Hope
In his autobiography, Based on a True Story, comedian Norm Macdonald details his years long gambling addiction, which cost him … More
What Psychoanalysis and CBT Can Teach Us about Battling Misinformation
Our understanding of the mind dating back to Freud tells us the same story repeatedly: we use defenses, or “biases” … More
The Power of Delusions
Self-importance is akin to cocaine. Social Psychologist David Myers discovered what he labeled “The Lake Wobegon Effect.” Based on a … More
Knowing Why to Quit
My rigidity is a gift and a curse. On the one hand, I’m determined; on the hand, I’m quite stubborn. … More
The Consolations of Psychotherapy: Why the Question of “Why Did This Happen to Me?” Doesn’t Make Sense
There is no why to suffering, only a how. How did it affect you? How did it change your outlook, … More
