I want to share a powerful exercise that’s been a key part of my personal growth journey.  The exercise is very simple—just sit in front of a mirror and look into your own eyes for ten minutes.  No matter what thoughts and sensations come up for you, see if you can hold your gaze on [...]

A while back, I wrote an article on the oft-revisited issue of how to deal with a negative “self-image.”  I suggested we’re actually at our most joyful and empowered in moments when we’re not conscious of any self-image, or mental picture of ourselves, at all.  In my experience, self-images, whether negative or positive, are a [...]

It seems like there’s no idea people will defend more fiercely or passionately than the notion that they aren’t good enough human beings.  Many people, when talking about how inferior or inadequate they supposedly are, undergo an amazing transformation.  People who usually shy away from conflict or seem apathetic suddenly become champion debaters when arguing [...]

Many of us are in the habit of telling ourselves we’re “not good enough.”  Whether it’s in our careers, our intimate relationships, our appearances, or some other area of our lives, we’re always convinced we don’t measure up to some standard of how we’re supposed to be.  Because it seems we can always find something [...]

My friend, a highly-paid financial professional, often complains about her job.  She doesn’t like the long hours, the difficult people, the office politics, and so forth.  Usually, I just sit and listen to her concerns, because it feels like she’s more interested in a sympathetic ear than anything else.  But one day, I couldn’t help [...]