MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'inspiration'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:50:45 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182151&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FJh9iehGlHiA%2F Tennis star Venus Williams withdrew from the U.S. Open yesterday, consuming headlines and stories this morning. But as time—and the U.S. Open—go on, I suspect we’ll all forget about what Sjögren’s syndrome is or why she dropped out in the first place. The media likes to focus on success stories and winners, and for obvious reason. But even if she isn’t winning any more matches this year, and even if she—worst case scenario here—can’t come back to tennis, I think it’s worth taking a minute to appreciate how quitting has actually made her a success story. Williams announced her withdrawal from the U.S. Open this morning, citing a relatively unknown auto-immune disorder for her inability to compete. “I enjoyed playing my first match here, and wish ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182151 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 18:32:02 +0100 5182151 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182153&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FMiUoUb2khv0%2F We frequently hear about celebrities and what they do (or don’t) do in the gym, but what about real women? We’re far more interested in the accomplishments and challenges of real women who’ve made health and fitness a priority. So we’re starting “That Girl,” a column meant to celebrate women of all ages, shapes, sizes and athletic persuasions, from all over the country (and hopefully beyond). This week, we’re kicking it off with Jo Shott, a competitive runner and triathlete: Meet: Joanna (You can call me JO) Shott Jacksonville, FL I’m 32 years young. Fitness/health accomplishment you are most proud of: To this point, I’m most proud of walking onto the UNF cross country team in 2001 (never ran on a team before). I trained with the team for three... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182153 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:47:56 +0100 5182153 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5182156&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F-0K-DlShM4k%2F Even though it may seem like they won’t, things get better. And there are things that you can do—sometimes as simple as taking a walk or spending time with your girlfriends. Take vitamins. Never underestimate how important it is to have sleep and good nutrition. When you have those basic things, your outlook is a whole lot better. —Kelly Preston, as told to Health Related posts: Motivational Mantra: Beyonce On Making Sacrifices For Health Motivational Mantra: Laila Ali on Striving For Perfection Motivational Mantra: Christina Hendricks On Finding Time To Give Back Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5182156 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:07:10 +0100 5182156 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181901&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F30%2Fwhy-a-hurricane-filled-me-with-gratitude%2F Like much of the East Coast, New York City was hit by Hurricane Irene. On Saturday, we checked our flashlights, loaded up on food, filled the bathtub, and hoped for the best. We were extremely lucky. The hurricane didn’t affect us much — we didn’t even lose power. And I’m very, very grateful for that. The hurricane was a good reminder about gratitude. For one thing, it reminded me that I have so much to be grateful for that it seems a bit preposterous that I need to remind myself to be grateful — but I do. When life is taking its ordinary course, it’s so easy to take everyday life for granted. Also, the hurricane made me much more mindful of how much I love my apartment and my city, and how safe and secure I generally feel. It’s a sad foible of human nature that ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181901 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 19:53:47 +0100 5181901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181902&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F30%2Fring-the-bells-that-still-can-ring-letting-go-of-perfectionism%2F Of all of the concerns clients bring to therapy, perfectionism can be one of the most relentless and the most difficult to overcome. It shows up under any number of guises, from the more mundane to more serious versions: “I’m not going to try to learn how to waterski because I know I won’t be any good at it.” “Anything less than an A is not a good enough grade.” “I need to punish myself for not being perfect.” Perfectionists engage in multiple problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. They tend to fear failure, disapproval, and making mistakes. Sometimes they fear success. They overemphasize “shoulds” and engage in all-or-nothing thinking. They constantly pressure themselves to succeed. A shameful belief about inner “badness” often is at the core of pe... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181902 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 16:51:17 +0100 5181902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174802&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F7L-Lw4OI2Gw%2F The truth is, it’s a lot of sacrifice. It’s more about your mental strength than physical strength. You have to push yourself. It doesn’t matter what trainer you have. And it doesn’t matter what program you’re on. You have to be healthy and make the right choices. –Beyonce Knowles, as told to Self Photo: Shutterstock Related posts: Beyonce’s “Let’s Move” Workout Video: Kid-Tested, Michelle Obama-Approved Motivational Mantra: Jillian Michaels On Getting Empowered By Taking Responsibility Motivational Mantra: Queen Latifah Says Feeling Good Isn’t Just For Skinny Girls Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174802 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:10:03 +0100 5174802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169574&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F26%2Fpresidents-as-patients-an-interview-with-dr-connie-mariano%2F Eleanor Concepcion “Connie” Mariano has quite an impressive resume — even for a doctor. Not only was Dr. Mariano — or, Dr. Connie, as she’s more intimately known by a few — the first Filipino-American to become a Rear Admiral in the United States Navy, but she was also the first American woman to be appointed the Director of the White House Medical Unit. In June 2010, Dr. Mariano released The White House Doctor: My Patients Were Presidents: A Memoir (Thomas Dune Books, 2010). I was able to speak with her recently about the psychology behind spending nine years caring for three Presidents of the United States through everything from surprisingly panic-inducing blisters to that sex scandal heard ’round the world. Alicia Sparks: Whether you were headed to a lo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169574 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 14:31:24 +0100 5169574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159685&cid=t_100731_136_f&fid=39026&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcarolinemfr.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fagain-i-am-not-inspired.html I am not feeling inspired this morning. Maybe because I have attempted to be a normal person for the past few days by working full days and then doing things in the evening other than sitting like a blob in front of the TV with my laptop. That cat likes me better when I spend a lot of time doing that. I was so tired yesterday I wanted to go home from work and take a nap. Well, I got to lie down for half an hour and then go out to dinner with my family. Then when we got home my back hurt and I couldn't fall asleep so I took a pill and did sleep and feel somewhat better today. But of course something has to hurt - my tennis elbow is acting up so I am typing with a stupid wrist brace which leads to frustration and typos. I did want to sleep late today but we are having a home energy inspect... Caroline's Breast Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159685 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:30:00 +0100 5159685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159007&cid=t_100731_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FlD5PfDL0NK4%2F The Ship Song Project is a reworking of Cave's original work with individual lines sung/performed by the most prominent acts to feature at the Sydney Opera House over 2010/2011. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159007 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 01:36:36 +0100 5159007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159547&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FoGyzqLf5Vxc%2F Despite the number of people who tout the benefits of meditation, for years I’ve been against it. Not against the practice itself, but just me doing it. I have never been able to master sitting still, without thoughts. No matter how hard I tried, the supposed path to enlightenment was sheer torture; I could not get my brain to shut up. Recently, however, I discovered the solution to doing so: Find a purpose. And, for me, that purpose is to set an intention for the day. You see, quite by accident, a couple of weeks ago when I was attempting to meditate (letting my thoughts pass like clouds, as I’m told), one thought did appear that seemed worth holding on to. Slow down, have a cup of tea and be OK with what’s left undone. That message came through loud and clear. Call it a... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159547 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 21:18:56 +0100 5159547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159198&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F25%2Fcan-religion-or-spirituality-help-ward-off-depression%2F People of all shapes, sizes, colors and nationalities get depression. There seems to be little rhyme or reason to whom it strikes and when. Many people swear by certain things to help them keep depression away. Some people use exercise, while others throw themselves more into their work. Others take a daily dose of a herb like St. John’s Wort or fish oil, because of the association these ingredients have had with a reduction in depression in some studies. But what about religion? Can a strong sense of spirituality or religion help you ward off depression? According to new research that followed a group of people over 10 years, the answer is a qualified “Yes.” The new longitudinal research out of Columbia University wanted to followup on previous research demonstrating th... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159198 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:10:27 +0100 5159198 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159548&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Ft5U-FYZIOH8%2F Stay organized, and when you’re dong things you love, you’ll find the time. —Christina Hendricks, as told to Self on how she finds time to work with Make-A-Wish Foundation Related posts: Good at Life: Try Keeping A Time Diary Could ‘Buddha Standard Time’ Help You Stress Less? Motivational Mantra: Jillian Michaels On Getting Empowered By Taking Responsibility Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159548 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 17:26:54 +0100 5159548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159932&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2F5EcklokuX2U%2F A baby is a gift which enriches your feelings and emotions, but a baby can also be an inspiring teacher as well. How? In fact, she can be your biggest motivator if you pay close attention to her activities. Let me share with you some interesting observations that I believe serve as great motivational lessons. 1. Innocence Just look at the innocent activities the baby does. Sometimes, they may not make any sense to others but the baby get’s herself involved in those small happiness activities. That’s innocence. Happiness has its root in innocence. We, adults on the other hand are getting drowned in information, bath in knowledge pools. With every information on our fingertips, we have lost our innocence to overload of information. Can we turn OFF the information channel for a moment and... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159932 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:24:18 +0100 5159932 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159202&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F23%2Fsecrets-of-adulthood-family-vacation%2F Good-bye, I’m off for vacation! Right now, I’m in that stage where it feels like so much work to get away, I’d rather just stay home. But I’m sure once we’re underway, I’ll be glad we undertook it. As I’m getting ready to leave, I’m reminding myself of my Secrets of Adulthood for family vacations. What are they? Click through to find out! (And then add your own in the comments…) Less is more. Start early if possible. When packing an item that might leak, put it in a plastic bag. Don’t let anyone get too hungry. Especially me. Cheerfulness is contagious, and crabbiness is even more contagious. Wear sunscreen. Carry tissues. Remind kids to visit the bathroom—don’t wait for the thought to occur to them. Never choose the buffet opti... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159202 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 18:37:03 +0100 5159202 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159551&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F7ZpS00I-esc%2F Is happy is as happy does? What if what happy does is follow all the latest and greatest happiness advice? That’s what filmmakers Hillman Curtis and Stefen Sagmeister set out to do in their feature-length documentary, The Happy Film. ‘Is it possible to train our mind in the same way that we train our bodies?’ and ‘Can we change our behavior to make us happier?’ are the main themes,” Curtis told The Atlantic. It’s not so much about ‘finding happiness’ as trying to ‘become more of the person you want to become.’ [Actually, right now it’s not so much about anything—as the Atlantic article notes, the film is stalled at the moment due to lack of funding.] So Curtis and Sagmeister try out different personal happiness advice given by ‘serious psycho... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159551 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:45:17 +0100 5159551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159552&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FmADpWDgNpC8%2F One of my greatest lessons was learning you need to clear the path you walk on for yourself because no one else is really interested in clearing it for you. —Danica Patrick, American auto racing driver and model Related posts: Motivational Mantra: Laila Ali on Striving For Perfection Motivational Mantra: The Self-Improvement Principle That Got Madonna To 53 Motivational Mantra: Martha Graham on Practicing For Perfection Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159552 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 20:28:56 +0100 5159552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130817&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F14%2F2-must-try-mindfulness-practices%2F “Just as an untamed elephant can do damage, trampling crops and injuring people, so the untamed, capricious mind can cause harm to us and those around us.” So writes Jan Chozen Bays, M.D., a physician and Zen teacher, in her book How to Train a Wild Elephant & Other Adventures in Mindfulness: Simple Daily Mindfulness Practices for Living Life More Fully & Joyfully. How often have you let negative thoughts run your life? Let a punitive perspective take over so you end up beating yourself up for the smallest of supposed offenses? Or just experienced the days like you’re listing through a boring book, going through the motions but skimming the significant stuff? Something that can help is mindfulness. According to Chozen Bays, “Mindfulness unifies our body, heart and mind, br... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130817 Sun, 14 Aug 2011 11:02:49 +0100 5130817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125806&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F13%2Fthe-idiots-guide-to-dealing-with-idiots%2F Idiots. The world is full of them. How hard it is for us, non-idiots, to put up with them. But to get our jobs done, our kids fed, and our pets groomed, we must deal with them. Idiots come in many shapes, forms, and types, but the ones that frustrate me the most are those who don’t believe in any form of mental illness. These creatures maintain that all mood disorders are cute, creative stories crafted by persons who enjoy obsessing, ruminating, and crying their eyes out… a wealthy bunch who can’t think of anything better to do than come up with a make-believe tale about a few neurons wandering around the limbic system afraid to ask for directions, just like Moses. We must tune out the idiots to achieve any kind of sanity or serenity. But how? Here are four ways that have work... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125806 Sat, 13 Aug 2011 11:07:11 +0100 5125806 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118883&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FWNnKq_hC46M%2F I believe that we learn by practice. Whether it means to learn to dance by practicing dancing or to learn to live by practicing living, the principles are the same. In each, it is the performance of a dedicated precise set of acts, physical or intellectual, from which comes shape of achievement, a sense of one’s being, a satisfaction of spirit. One becomes, in some area, an athlete of God. Practice means to perform, over and over again in the face of all obstacles, some act of vision, of faith, of desire. Practice is a means of inviting the perfection desired. —Martha Graham Related posts: Motivational Mantra: Jillian Michaels On Getting Empowered By Taking Responsibility Motivational Mantra: Celebrity Trainer David Kirsch Says Stop Counting Calories Motivational Mantra: Oprah Win... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118883 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 20:30:05 +0100 5118883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103378&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F06%2Fwhat-trivial-habit-gives-a-giant-boost-of-happiness%2F Is it…getting enough sleep? Yes, but that’s not what I’m thinking of. Is it…getting some exercise? Yes, but that’s not what I’m thinking of. Give up? It’s….putting things away in the proper place! Zoikes, this (admittedly fairly insignificant) habit gives a disproportionate boost of happiness. Just this past weekend, I tried to find: The cord that connects my camera to my computer The headphones for my husband’s iTouch My younger daughter’s swimming goggles A copy of Patricia Clapp’s novel, Jane-Emily, for my older daughter (a terrific young-adult book, by the way) A business card I’d picked up at a meeting I attended three weeks ago The flight information for my upcoming trip A legal pad A pair of AA batteries My vi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103378 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 10:33:16 +0100 5103378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103532&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FWhjmlRkipQc%2F Last week I asked the Miracle Question from Solution-Focused Therapy. The Miracle Question is simply, “If while you slept a miracle occurred tonight that solved all of your problems, how would you know when you woke up in the morning that a miracle occurred? What would be different?” The first step, of course, is answering the question, but if you just stopped there you might be left feeling a bit frustrated. There are generally two reactions to the Miracle Question. Some people are already living their “miracle life,” and by answering the question, they simply reinforce how happy and content they are. Good for them, but what about everyone else? What if your current reality is completely different from your miracle life? What if by answering the Miracle Question yo... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103532 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 08:16:26 +0100 5103532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103465&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FUbM1bw625nU%2F Healthy eating isn’t a numbers game. Ingredients trump calories, in my book. Choose natural nourishment over diet snacks. —David Kirsch, as tweeted earlier today Related posts: Star Power: Can These Top Celebrity Trainers Get You Into Shape? Motivational Mantra: Oprah Winfrey Says Finishing Marathons Is Better Than Winning Emmys Motivational Mantra: Trudie Styler Says You’ve Got One Body, So Give It Some Yoga Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103465 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:49:06 +0100 5103465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096826&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FXwI3P47H6YU%2F I have experienced depression, Many people have. Mine was caused by a few things. I felt a lot of stress from all these different areas […] I’m much happier, more sure, more definite. Who you are at 25 and who you are at 29 is a very different thing. For me it feels like a 20-year age gap. You live, you learn and you come through the drama to a more easy, relaxed perspective. —Kirsten Dunst, as told to British Elle Related posts: 6 Celebrities Who Are Honest About Their Depression to Help Others NFL Star Brandon Marshall Raising Awareness For Borderline Personality Disorder Motivational Mantra: Martha Stewart Says Energy And Action Matter More Than Age Post from: Blisstree (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096826 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 20:56:24 +0100 5096826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5097182&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FF_ImeBCfPMQ%2F a figure of speech in which a term or phrase is applied to something to which it is not literally applicable in order to suggest a resemblance (Source: Success Begins Today) Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5097182 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:32:57 +0100 5097182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096343&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F03%2Ftrue-beauty-is-found-underneath-the-skin-an-interview-with-susanne-veder-berger%2F Since birth, Susanne Veder Berger was taught to hide herself, to cover the six-inch “port-wine stain” that dominated nearly the entire left side of her face. (Doctors call the condition “naevus flammeus,” a vascular birthmark resulting from deep dilated capillaries below the surface of the skin.) When Susanne was only four years old, she was taught how to apply a mask of thick makeup to her face each day in an effort to avoid teasing and humiliation. Susanne did this literally every day of her life for more than 50 years as she attended Seneca College in Toronto, got married, moved to the New York City suburbs and raised two children. Conditioned to believe that if the mask ever slipped — from careless application of her makeup or perhaps by shedding a tear — the world ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096343 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 10:22:43 +0100 5096343 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096827&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FwOQXx0BJIGk%2F I was flipping through the latest issue of Yoga Journal last night, and I came across an article about how to “uncover your personal blueprint for happiness.” Excited to see what they had to say, I dove in: Happiness. We all seek it. There is no more basic or universal drive than the desire to be happy. Agreed. So far so good… Everything that human beings have accomplished or aspired to, our every endeavor, has been and always will be rooted to the impulse to satisfy our longing for happiness. Got it. Then, it goes on to describe how yoga provides one of the most effective systems for achieving happiness, followed by the statement: There may be no more important step to achieving ultimate fulfillment than accepting what the Vedas teach us about desires—that some desires... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096827 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 19:50:07 +0100 5096827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096344&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F02%2F7-books-that-changed-the-way-i-see-the-world%2F One of my favorite things: when I read a book that transforms the way I see the world, or the way I see the possibilities of writing. Another one of my favorite things: when I convince someone to read one of those books, and he or she loves it as much I do. So keeping that in mind, here’s a short list of books that transformed the way I see the world. I could go on for pages, but here’s a start, and if you’re at your bookstore or the library, check these out… 1. Christopher Alexander, A Pattern Language. I’ve never been interested in interior design or architecture, but this book taught me how to be aware of why certain spaces are pleasing — or not. I think about it all the time. 2. Scott McCloud, Understanding Comics. I’ve never been interested i... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096344 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:42:19 +0100 5096344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086437&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F65ski7SaM3U%2F It’s a scary thing going into the workforce with a $50,000 debt and you’ve been trained as a classical theatre actor. There’s always a depression in the theatre. There’s only two givens with choosing acting as a profession: one is you will always be unemployed, always, and it doesn’t matter how much money you make, you’re still always going to be unemployed; and that you have no power. The only power you have is the word no. —Frances McDormand, as told to The Guardian Related posts: Motivational Mantra: Martha Stewart Says Energy And Action Matter More Than Age Motivational Mantra: Emily Deschanel On Working Out For Health, Not Just Looks Motivational Mantra: Thandie Newton On Embracing Her Sense Of Self Motivational Mantra: Trudie Styler Says You&#82... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086437 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 17:02:03 +0100 5086437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069711&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FxeLWpEakoRU%2F I have a treadmill, and I work out with my trainer, Julie Diamond, as often as possible. She’s so positive. She’s never like, “Move your fat butt!” It’s more like, “Think of how you’ll feel when you’re in great shape.” And she’s right. There are weeks when I don’t exercise at all, and I don’t feel good…For me, it always has to be about health. That’s why I’m a vegan. Well, I don’t even do that for my health entirely, I do it for animals. The point is, there always has to be a better reason than looking good, or I won’t stick with it.   –Emily Deschanel, as told to Women’s Health Related posts: Motivational Mantra: Thandie Newton On Embracing Her Sense Of Self Motivational Man... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069711 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 13:00:23 +0100 5069711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062423&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FhKfRmoxxiKI%2F The key to my success as an actor is the very lack of self that used to make me feel so anxious and insecure. –Thandie Newton, during her TED Talk “Embracing Otherness, Embracing Myself” Related posts: My Refrigerator, My Self: Mark Menjivar’s Portraits Of A Fridge Motivational Mantra: Julianne Moore On Comedy And Aging Post from: BlissTree Motivational Mantra: Thandie Newton On Embracing Her Sense Of Self (Source: Genetics and Health) Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062423 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:00:18 +0100 5062423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5051316&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FKj6TKYVvaIE%2F This is a guest post by Sarah McGaugh. She is a teacher, entertainer, four star general, and nurse: in other words, a mom. After many years of a fulfilling career as a high school English teacher who loved being in her classroom with her students, she now stays at home to home school her two young children and also works as a freelance editor. Her philosophy is simple: find the magic in the ordinary, laugh whenever possible, and embrace the joy that was meant for you. You can read more from Sarah on her blog, Bird in your Hand. In the fall of 2003, when I was a first year teacher who had both the advantage and disadvantage of knowing hardly a thing about teaching, I met Mike. A seventeen-year-old junior in my English class, Mike wore a thick black hooded sweatshirt everyday, even in the d... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5051316 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:01:49 +0100 5051316 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036277&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F16%2Fwhy-is-this-particular-part-of-happiness-so-hard%2F I love the novels of J.P. Marquand, and over the weekend, I re-read The Late George Apley. (I love to re-read.) I thought I remembered that it touched on the issue of happiness, and it does. The novel is terrific — funny, poignant, and very thought-provoking. The first, and most important, of my Twelve Personal Commandments is to Be Gretchen. Why is it so hard to know myself? and to act in accordance with my own nature, my interests, my values? It would seem that nothing would be easier and more obvious — and yet it’s very, very challenging. The novel describes the life of the late George Apley — a man who does not manage to “Be George,” and instead allows himself to be pushed by his parents and others away from the choices he wants to make, and who in ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036277 Sat, 16 Jul 2011 15:05:00 +0100 5036277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028452&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F14%2Fone-of-the-biggest-barriers-to-creativity-and-how-to-overcome-it%2F Anyone who writes — or creates anything that goes out to the public — knows that oftentimes the product is akin to putting your heart out on a piece of paper (or laptop, or canvas and so on). Vulnerable, scary and vomit-inducing. So even if you get 100 compliments and kind words, one negative remark roars above the rest. It sticks out and stays with you. Not only does it have you questioning your work but, worse, your worth. Or even just the idea of being evaluated gets under your skin. Instead of telling the truth or letting your creativity flow freely, limitless and liberated, you’re paralyzed because you’re thinking about what everyone else will be thinking. So one of the biggest barriers to creativity is, as you’ve probably guessed by now: concern over the critics — be they... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028452 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:15:04 +0100 5028452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028461&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F10%2Fwant-to-feel-happier-by-the-end-of-the-day%2F Do you need a happiness boost — right now? If so, take a look at this menu of options and make your choices. Remember, the more you tackle, the bigger the boost you’ll receive. When you’re feeling blue, it can be hard to muster up the physical and mental energy to do the things that make you happier. Plunking down in front of the TV or digging into a tub of ice cream seems like an easier fix. However, research shows (and you know it’s true) that these aren’t the routes to feeling better. Try some choices below. The more you push yourself, the better you’ll feel; but if you can’t tackle a big task, just do something small. Even a little step in the right direction will give you a lift. According to my ground-breaking happiness formula, to be happy, you need to think about... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028461 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:46:57 +0100 5028461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008310&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F05%2Fa-quick-shot-of-happiness-thanks-to-winston-churchill%2F One of the great joys of my life was writing my biography of Winston Churchill. What a pleasure it was to write that book! I had so many complicated things (both praise and blame) to say about Churchill, and the problems of biography, and human nature, and I felt that I managed to express them all — to my own satisfaction, anyway. When I feel a little blue, I often console myself by thinking of some of my favorite passages of Churchill’s writing. So many examples stand out in my mind. One, for instance, is the extraordinary eulogy to Neville Chamberlain. Another is a passage from Their Finest Hour, the second volume in Churchill’s six-volume history of World War II. Of a visit to a very poor London neighborhood that had been devastated by the Blitz, he wrote: Already litt... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008310 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 20:12:27 +0100 5008310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997614&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F04%2Fliving-the-compassionate-life%2F In November 2007, religious historian Karen Armstrong won the TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) award because of her many contributions that have made a profound difference in the world. Each recipient is given $100,000 and a wish for a better world. So, three months later, when Armstrong accepted the award, she asked TED to help her create, launch, and propagate a Charter for Compassion that would be designed by prominent thinkers, philosophers, and leaders from a variety of different faiths. Its mission? To restore compassion to the heart of religious and moral life at a time of such flagrant violence and terrorism in the name of race and religion. As I read through excerpts of Armstrong’s book, Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life, and reviewed her interview earlier this year wi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997614 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 15:18:22 +0100 4997614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984498&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F29%2Fthe-illusion-of-confidence%2F We often overestimate our abilities, and overestimate the abilities of others who exude confidence.  Are we correct in thinking the athlete who radiates confidence must be competent in her/his sport?  The salesman who speaks with extensive knowledge and confidence must know what they are talking about, right? These scenarios are often manifestations of the illusion of confidence. Confidence is often considered a “true” signal of the extent of one’s memory, knowledge, skill, and ability.  However, confidence is often misleading and not congruent with ability.  This type of unwarranted confidence leads to “epistemic irrationality,” or more commonly known as simply delusion and self-deception. The illusion of confidence has two distinct but related aspects.  Fi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984498 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 19:12:36 +0100 4984498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975940&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F28%2F10-myths-about-happiness%2F I’m leaving my desk for a few days, so in my absence, thought I’d re-post one of my favorite round-up pieces, about ten widespread myths about happiness. A while back, each day for two weeks, I posted about Ten Happiness Myths. Here they are, for your reading convenience. (Click on each myth to read a longer explanation of it.) 1. Happy people are annoying and stupid. Wrong. Actually, studies show that people find happy people much more likable than their less-happy peers. Happy people are viewed as friendlier, smarter, warmer, less selfish, more self-confident, and more socially skilled — even more physically attractive. 2. Nothing changes a person’s happiness level much. It’s true that there’s a powerful genetic link to happiness — usually it’s estimated t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975940 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 19:23:58 +0100 4975940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975942&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F28%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-june-28-2011%2F Sometimes when I’m in need of a little inspiration, I head out for a short walk. Today, as I meandered through the tree lined path of my apartment complex, I found it. I kept ending up in the direction of a beautiful fountain. The sound of the water as it sprung up in the air like fireworks and then gently falling as it lapped softly against the rocks was soothing. I thought about what the water represented, that regardless of whether it was thrust up in the air or moved gracefully to the bottom, it was the same unchanged substance. I realized that no matter what you did to it, the water was still water flowing in a fountain. The same could be said about you. You may have emotions that carry you from the highest mountain peaks to the valley lows, but you are at the core that unchange... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975942 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 10:11:39 +0100 4975942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975944&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F27%2Fmarsha-linehan-acknowledges-her-own-struggle-with-borderline-personality-disorder%2F Dr. Marsha Linehan, long best known for her ground-breaking work with a new form of psychotherapy called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), has let out her own personal secret — she has suffered from borderline personality disorder. In order to help reduce the prejudice surrounding this particular disorder — people labeled as borderline often are seen as attention-getting and always in crisis — Dr. Linehan told her story in public for the first time last week before an audience of friends, family and doctors at the Institute of Living, the Hartford clinic where she was first treated for extreme social withdrawal at age 17, according to The New York Times. At 17 in 1961, Linehan detailed how when she came to the clinic, she attacked herself habitually, cut her arms legs a... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975944 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:12:20 +0100 4975944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968577&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F25%2Fwhy-celebrities-like-katy-perry-dont-want-people-to-make-eye-contact%2F A few weekends ago, I was intrigued to see this story in the New York Post: “The ultimate star perk is forbidding eye contact.” According to the Smoking Gun, singer Katy Perry’s contract covering her driver provides that the driver isn’t supposed to “stair” (sic) at her in the rear-view mirror. The piece notes that there have been many similar rumors over the years — that people were prohibited from making eye contact with Luke Perry, Tori Spelling, Sylvester Stallone, and others. When I read this story, I had a huge rush of intellectual pleasure. Because I think I’ve figured this out! Darshan. Years ago, when I was doing the research for my first book, Power Money Fame Sex: A User’s Guide, I was struck by how often celebrities made rules about eye contac... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968577 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 19:03:06 +0100 4968577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968582&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F23%2Ffrustrated-by-devices-read-the-manual%2F Handsome, well-made tools are a joy to use; confusing devices are a drain. So often, I find, things once easy to operate — TVs, irons, dishwashers, alarm clocks, washing machines — are now humiliatingly challenging. Cognitive-science professor Donald Norman points out that when we expect a device — like a toaster or video camera — will be fairly simple to operate, and it’s not, we assume we’re at fault, instead of holding the object responsible. One Sunday afternoon, when I was frantically trying to synchronize the data on my laptop with my desktop, I kept getting strange error messages. In desperation, I asked my husband to take a look. “Oh. Our internet service isn’t working,” he announced after fifteen seconds on the computer. I’d assumed I was doing ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968582 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:22:03 +0100 4968582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4960118&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F23%2Fmeditation-for-slow-learners%2F You can’t read too many health headlines anymore before you run across a story extolling meditation’s many health benefits: from calming anxiety to increasing resilience, from lowering blood pressure to building immunity. Meditation does it all! And is being embraced in practically every medical field. But what is it? I’m a bit of a slow learner, so even as I promised myself two years ago that I would start each day with 20 minutes of meditation, I am still thumbing through books trying to figure out how, exactly, you do it. I have learned much from Elisha Goldstein’s Psych Central blog, “Mindfulness and Psychotherapy.” Because I believe, on some level, that all forms of meditation are about creating space. And Elisha reminds his readers of that by continually repeating the mea... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4960118 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 10:16:50 +0100 4960118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952985&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F21%2F6-tips-to-help-summer-depression%2F The kids are out of school. Your neighbors are whistling on their way to work, greeting you with an enthusiasm peculiar to warm weather. And if you hear one more person ask you about your summer vacation plans, you will throw a US map and atlas at them. You don’t mean to be grumpy. But darn it, you are miserable in the oppressive heat, your kids are home for 90 consecutive days, and you are don’t have the stamina to pretend you are giddy that summer has arrived. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. After publishing a piece recently about the trigger of Memorial Day for me — reminding me that most of my relapses have happened in the summer months — I’ve heard from so many readers that fear this time of year for the same reason: summer depression. Ian A. Cook, MD, the direc... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952985 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:39:48 +0100 4952985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952988&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F20%2Fbetter-by-mistake-an-interview-with-alina-tugend%2F Afraid to make a mistake? Don’t be. According to author Alina Tugend, the best way to become an expert in your field is by making mistakes, lots of them, but to cooperate with the brain on learning from them. In her new book, Better By Mistake: The Unexpected Benefits of Being Wrong, explains the science of making mistakes and why learning from them is vital in a culture of perfectionism. Tugend has been a journalist for nearly 30 years and for the past six has written the ShortCuts column for the New York Times business section. She has written about education, environmentalism, and consumer culture for numerous publications, including the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, The Atlantic, and Parents and is a Huffington Post contributor. I have the honor of conducting an exclusive in... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952988 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 11:06:34 +0100 4952988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952991&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F18%2Fhow-to-overcome-embarrassment%2F There’s a reason why we say we’re “dying of embarrassment” — because while we’re in the midst of an embarrassing episode, dying really does seems like the better option. No human being I know is immune from these moments; however, I seem to have a knack at collecting a large variety. After a recent incident that made me want to hide in a corner of the world without wi-fi, my writing and spiritual mentor gave me great advice. “It’s okay to be embarrassed,” he said. “It’s cleansing. This one has already passed, and passed nicely, like a kidney stone after the first day. You may relax.” Of course that didn’t stop me from feeling embarrassed some more. So after collecting some nuggets from friends and professionals, ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952991 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 12:14:50 +0100 4952991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4945298&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FdS8zniSU9-8%2F If your life is a book, what kind of story is it? Is it an adventure? Is it a mystery? Does it have a good plot? Does it flow well? How are the characters, are they interesting? How about the location, is it cheerful and fun, or dark and depressing? Is there action in your story? Does the story pace quickly, or drag slowly along? If I picked up your book, would I find it interesting? Would I want to keep turning the pages and move quickly through the chapters? Would I like your characters? Would I keep reading, or put it aside? Would I recommend it to a friend? If you could change your story, how would the plot change? Would the characters be different? How about the location, would it be somewhere else? Would things change, or stay the same? You are the author of your life. You get to wr... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4945298 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:36:47 +0100 4945298 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934706&cid=t_100731_134_f&fid=35179&url=http%3A%2F%2Fscottsdiabetes.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fyou-can-do-this-2%2F Here’s a quick video for the You Can Do This project.  Thank you Kim, and thank you everyone who is watching and/or contribution. You Can Do This. And for the record, I am so ready to shave my “faux beard”. 15 days left until I can clean it up. You Can Do This! is a post from: Scott's Diabetes (Source: Scott's Diabetes Blog) Scott's Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934706 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:46:15 +0100 4934706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934331&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F15%2Fcultivating-your-passions%2F Many of my happiness-project resolutions are meant to help me keep my vision wide. To counteract my impulse to work all the time, I push myself, with moderate success, to follow resolutions like Force myself to wander, Take time for projects, Read at whim, and Take notes without a purpose. And my most important resolution, of course, is to Be Gretchen. These resolutions have dramatically changed the way I react when I develop — as I sometimes do — unusual interest in a new subject. Nowadays, I allow myself to follow a new passion as far as I want. Sometimes, it’s true, I’m lucky enough to have been able to turn these passions into my work. When I became obsessed with Winston Churchill, I wrote a book about Churchill. What a joy it was to write that book! My preoccupatio... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934331 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:49:12 +0100 4934331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934339&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F12%2Fmoney-problems-6-steps-to-transform-your-money-life%2F I don’t know of anyone who doesn’t have a money problem right now, in this economy. Even the wealthiest of the wealthy are fretting because the fortunes they stashed in bonds and stocks aren’t performing with the same gust of the 90s, and, even if you have 5 billion dollars, seeing that figure change by a half of a billion produces anxiety and pacing. I wouldn’t know. But I’m guessing. So it was with interest I read financial advisor Karen Lee’s book, It’s Just Money, So Why Does It Cause So Many Problems?. Lee has worked in the financial services industry since 1987. During that time, she has worked with hundreds of families, individuals, and small businesses to help them work towards their financial goals. And to boot, she’s a regular guest expert on CNN. Here are... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934339 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 12:28:50 +0100 4934339 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921517&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F11%2F6-ideas-for-creating-fun-rituals-with-your-family%2F My parents and I have always been like the Three Musketeers. When I lived at home, we’d sit down to dinner every single night—no TV or cell phones, though my dad would leave the soccer game on in the living room and spring from his chair to stand at the edge of the kitchen to catch a good play. (Or if he heard the signature “Gooaaaallllll!” roaring from the announcer.) We took family vacations regularly and rarely experienced big events separately. For instance, whenever I had a performance at school, my parents always made sure that one of them was there. If they had to, they’d miss work to support me during one of my silly shows. My father passed away almost two years ago, but my mom and I still try to eat dinner together and regularly have shopping dates. When my g... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921517 Sat, 11 Jun 2011 12:31:41 +0100 4921517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921518&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F10%2Fcan-you-have-too-much-happiness%2F I can safely say that I think few of us struggle with having too much happiness. We turn to the happiness gurus to help us increase our happiness for a reason — who wouldn’t want to be happier? Pretty much all of us do. For many of us, the pursuit of happiness is not only something we’ve grown up on, it’s something we’ve come to expect as a right. I mean, it’s right there in the Declaration of Independence! But like everything in life, too much of a good thing is a bad thing. This includes the pursuit of happiness. Too much happiness can be just as detrimental in your life as not having enough. That’s the finding anyway of Gruber and her colleagues (2011), in a recent review of the happiness research. Let’s see what they had to say. Too Muc... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921518 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 15:25:45 +0100 4921518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4945302&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2Fve29c5In1XU%2F I just returned from a week’s vacation and a two day seminar in the Pacific Northwest. The trip was fun and I had a chance to spend a few days with my 18 month old grandson. While the drive from Southern California was a long one, the experience was well worth the time. The seminar was called Storyline and is based on Don Miller’s bestselling book, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years. I read the book a year ago and I knew that this seminar would be different… it would be an experience. The seminar lived up to expectations. The seminar was held at the Armory Theater in downtown Portland, Oregon. The theater was right across the street from Powell’s Books, the largest bookstore in the world. Portland is an eclectic town with an amazing diversity of people. When you first drive in, th... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4945302 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:09:15 +0100 4945302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921520&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F09%2Fthe-seed-9-pieces-of-advice-for-graduates%2F In his new book, The Seed: Finding Purpose and Happiness in Life and Work, international and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jon Gordon tells the story of Josh, a guy who, like so many of us, has lost his passion at work. When Josh’s boss challenges the young worker to take two weeks off to assess his attitude and intentions, Josh heads to the country. There, a farmer hands him a seed and tells him that when he discovers the right place to plant the seed his purpose will be revealed to him. This tale takes readers on a quest to explore their own passion, purpose, and happiness in life and work. The themes presented are most appropriate for graduates just embarking on their path. Here, then, are nine such lessons presented in the story, in the words of Gordon: 1. Focus on Get to i... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921520 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 15:45:54 +0100 4921520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911571&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F08%2Fhow-to-do-great-work-and-a-giveaway%2F When you’re on the job, you might feel like the last thing you’re doing is meaningful work. Like you’re stuck in a rut and just going through the motions. Email? Check. Phone calls? Check. Data entry? Check. Meeting? Check. Lunch? Check. More email. More calls. Home. Whether or not your days feel this mundane, you still might not be involved in exhilarating, engaging work that makes you happy. In Do More Great Work, Canadian coach Michael Bungay Stanier — founder of the company Box of Crayons — helps readers “stop the busywork, and start the work that matters.” Specifically, the book features a variety of exercises, which Stanier calls maps, and thought-provoking questions that help readers figure out what their own meaningful work is and how to do more of it. (It... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911571 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 10:15:12 +0100 4911571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902483&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F06%2Fthink-encouraging-girls-to-stay-smart-in-a-dumb-downed-world%2F In her gutsy book, Think: Straight Talk for Women to Stay Smart in a Dumbed-Down World, attorney and national television legal analyst Lisa Bloom paints a dire picture: The problem is not just about that 25 percent of young women who would rather be hot than smart; rather, it’s about a culture that actually makes that a rational choice: rewarding girls for looks over brains. And it’s about ALL of us, intelligent American females, ranging from girlhood to old age, who are dazzling ignorant about some critically important things. An aggravating thing happened in the last generation. As girls started seriously kicking ass at every level of education (girls now out-perform boys in elementary, middle, and high schools; we graduate from college, professional, and graduate schools in greater ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902483 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 15:23:52 +0100 4902483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902719&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38609&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDavidSeah-BetterLivingThroughNewMedia%2F%7E3%2FnU4usEE_dbo%2F Conclusions I had really been giving myself a hard time on not being more disciplined, harder working, and smarter for the past two months. Even the blog hasn’t been very fun, as it just reminded me of all the stuff I should be doing. But with these recent revelations, I think I’m starting to get over the hump. Yes, it takes time, because I’m doing something new and novel. This is the path of the artist, which is like an unmarked goat path that occasionally (but unpredictably) intersects with opportunity. Just because it takes time doesn’t mean it has to feel slow and unproductive. Rather than focus on the end results that are far into the future, I should be able to create a stepping stone series of smaller explorations that eventually bring me there. It will be... David Seah - Design, Development, Inspiration, Empowerment blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902719 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 04:50:12 +0100 4902719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893556&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F03%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-june-3-2011%2F It’s easy to slip into the “coulda, woulda, shouldas” of our lives. There’s the trip you didn’t take. The relationship you might have ended too soon. The career that sits, still waiting to be pursued. And though it maybe difficult to admit, it’s not the boss that held you back or the friend that slighted you. In fact, there’s probably some true to the saying that “you are your own worst enemy.” It’s the weekend again. It’s June. Summer is upon us. Why not take the time to reflect on why you’re holding yourself back? A few days ago, I asked our Facebook friends what’s the best decision they ever made. It was one of our most popular topics and we received responses on everything from living to accepting their life.... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893556 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 11:16:55 +0100 4893556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893754&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FPLCxdqPypHY%2F Seven in 10 California prisoners end up back in prison within three years of their release, according to the video below from TIME. And while some inmates might seem beyond hope — “you name it, like I said, I’ve done a lot of different things,” admitted one inmate who’s in prison for his fourth time — the state is taking a slightly unorthodox route to getting them back on track: yoga. Several programs, like vocational training, have been tested to get prisoners prepared to reintegrate into society after their sentences, but James Fox, who works with the Insight Prison Project, believes that yoga will help them deal with the problems that are most likely to keep them behind bars, like anger and addiction. So the next time you’re about to let a shitty day ru... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893754 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:19:44 +0100 4893754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893557&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F02%2Frun-like-a-girl-how-sports-can-empower-you%2F I never considered myself an athlete. My twin sister grew up with the reputation of being the tomboy of the family, the sporty one who participated in soccer and other organized sports. I was the brain and artsy one, who spent more time practicing my scales and arpeggios on our baby grand piano and perfecting pirouettes in the dance studio. I was intimidated by sports. And I found that I had absolutely no coordination once you threw a ball into the competition. So out were softball, volleyball, soccer, and pretty much every other sport. I swam during the summer and for my high school, and I started running in junior high, but just to lose enough weight to stop my period (I was a tad anorexic). I continued jogging and swimming through college into early adulthood. But just to stay in shape.... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893557 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 16:37:03 +0100 4893557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893560&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F01%2Fare-you-always-late-7-tips-to-arrive-on-time%2F Feeling as though you’re always running twenty minutes behind schedule is an unhappy feeling. Having to rush, forgetting things in your haste, dealing with annoyed people when you arrive… It’s no fun. If you’re chronically late, what steps can you take to be more prompt? That depends on why you’re late. As my Eighth Commandment holds, the first step is to Identify the problem — then you can see more easily what you need to change. There are many reasons you might be late, but some are particularly common. Are you late because… 1. You sleep too late? If you’re so exhausted in the morning that you sleep until the last possible moment, it’s time to think about going to sleep earlier. Many people don’t get enough sleep, and sleep deprivation is a re... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893560 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:28:03 +0100 4893560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4876421&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F28%2Fhelping-others-is-good-for-your-health-an-interview-with-stephen-g-post-phd%2F Mahatma Gandhi once said that “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” I have benefited from that advice, for sure, especially in the months that I was crawling out of a very severe depression. An expert on the perks that come with helping others is bestselling author Stephen G. Post, author of The Hidden Gifts of Helping: How the Power of Giving, Compassion, and Hope Can Get us Through Hard Times (Jossey-Bass, 2011). He is Professor of Preventive Medicine, Heard of the Division of Medicine in Society, and Director of the Center for Medical Humanities, Compassionate Care and Bioethics at Stony Brook University. Visit him on his website at www.stephengpost.com/hiddengifts. I have the privilege of conducting an exclusive interview with him for... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4876421 Sat, 28 May 2011 10:07:20 +0100 4876421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872161&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F27%2F8-tips-for-teenage-depression%2F Teenagers are moody. Absolutely. Fluctuations in hormones cause anger outbursts, irritability, emotional hysteria, bursts of anger, defiant behavior, and weepiness. So it’s very difficult to tease apart teenage drama from legitimate depression and other mood disorders. However, it’s worth the effort because depression and other mood disorders that begin in adolescence often become much more serious and difficult to treat as adult disorders. A 1996 study by the National Institute of Mental Health estimated that more than 6 percent of adolescents, between the ages of 9 and 18 years old, suffered from depression during the six-month period of the study, and almost five percent suffered from major depressive disorder. Moreover, many of the 20 percent of people who suffer from depression a... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872161 Fri, 27 May 2011 15:27:51 +0100 4872161 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4876527&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FyCmShq81sG8%2F With all of the natural disasters and really horrific news over the past few months, it’s easy to get down and negative. I find myself in a funk after listening to the latest round of news reports. It’s hard to get the horrific views of tsunamis, tornadoes, and earthquakes out of my mind. While I think it is a good idea to keep up with world events, it’s easy to get overwhelmed from time to time. I really want to help out in each situation, but the fact is I can’t. I end up feeling guilty that I’m still safe and others are suffering. While I think its important to donate and help those in need, I realized the other day that we all need a break from time to time. We need to focus on our family and friends. We just need to celebrate a good day. The way our minds... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4876527 Thu, 26 May 2011 13:35:42 +0100 4876527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4862625&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F25%2Fwhat-little-awesome-things-make-you-happy%2F One of my friends from blogland is Neil Pasricha, who has the wonderful site 1000 Awesome Things, where he lists, yes, awesome things! It always makes me happy to visit there. For example, some awesome things include: The Kids’ Table The smooth feeling on your teeth when you get your braces off Pulling a weed and getting all the roots with it That moment in the shower when you decide to make it a really long shower Letting go of the gas pump perfectly so you end on a round number Sneaking cheaper candy into the movie theater Picking the fastest moving line at the grocery store checkout Coming back to your own bed after a long trip Neil has also written two books of awesome things, and the second one hits the shelves today: The Book of Even More Awesome. (Neil and I bond over Canada&... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4862625 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:32:40 +0100 4862625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4853259&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FNIeIykc1oBE%2F Do you remember those magical times in your childhood when you could lose yourself in your imagination? You could become anything and anyone, and life was full of infinite possibilities and exciting potential. Logic didn’t get in the way, blocking your sense of freedom and joy. And if life was miserable, you could escape from it all through the creative, imaginative world you made for yourself. It’s no accident that as children we practice all sorts of situations and personas, trying them on for size and preparing ourselves in a safe and harmless way for whatever life might have in store for us. And that free-thinking, creative imagination is more than just a trial run at real life. It’s an invaluable tool when it comes to the resilience and creativity needed to solve life’s proble... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4853259 Mon, 23 May 2011 04:53:48 +0100 4853259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852943&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F21%2F6-steps-to-get-anyone-yourself-included-to-do-anything%2F I am not promising these things. A motivational coach, consultant, therapist, and award-winning faculty member at Yale School of Medicine is. A guy named Michael V. Pantalon. He has a bunch of credentials like publishing articles in the New England Journal of Medicine and the Journal of the American Medical Association, so I read though his book, Instant Influence: How to Get Anyone to Do Anything—FAST with curiosity. I have a lot of projects that I was hoping he could help me with. I have not had enough time to accurately test-drive his recipe of influence; however, I think I’m coming with a bit of a handicap considering my strong urge to want to please people. I only have to hear a vague “I don’t really see it that way,” to abandon my way and go with someone else’s. However,... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852943 Sat, 21 May 2011 10:36:08 +0100 4852943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841586&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F17%2Fthe-healing-power-of-laughter%2F A year and a half ago, John McManamy interviewed me on the topic of humor in relation to mental health in a post he called “On the Dark Side of Humor.” I explained to him that of all my tools to combat depression and anxiety, humor is by far the most fun. I realize I run into trouble with some folks who think there is nothing funny about being depressed and not able to get up from bed. But even if you have a broken funny bone while buried in the Black Hole, the minute you surface I think it’s helpful to look back and poke fun of what just happened. If that is at all possible. I wasn’t always able to laugh at myself. In fact, on my dad’s deathbed, he urged me to have more fun. That was his only wish. I took life WAY too seriously and was annoyed by people who didn’t. And then it... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841586 Tue, 17 May 2011 18:05:20 +0100 4841586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4828985&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F16%2Fover-40-playful-yet-practical-ways-to-cultivate-creativity%2F This article is designed specifically for marketing mavens but everyone can take away some good ideas, regardless of your profession. What are some of your favorite creativity-boosting activities? What helps you get those creative juices churning? (Source: World of Psychology) World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4828985 Mon, 16 May 2011 12:06:04 +0100 4828985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4821190&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2Fwjw8t9yK2oU%2F There are many famous quotes out there, but there are only a few with the power to touch your heart. In this article, I’ve gathered 9 famous quotes that will not only supercharge your day and make you wise, but also inspire you to go after your wildest dreams and aspirations. The truth of the matter is that you can become and have anything you want in this world. The only person stopping you is yourself. With all that said, let’s jump right into the famous quotes, shall we? 1. ‘Worrying is like a rocking chair. It gives you something to do but it doesn’t get you anywhere.’ – Van Wilder We all worry more than we have to. When you think back in your life to the times when you worried excessively, did your worrying actually solve anything? If you really thi... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4821190 Fri, 13 May 2011 06:31:31 +0100 4821190 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813361&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F11%2Fthe-fear-of-making-mistakes-and-interesting-insights-on-being-wrong%2F My whole life I’ve been terrified of making mistakes. When I was giving a talk about Germany in my sixth grade class and the teacher asked me who the chancellor was, it took me a minute to utter his last name — all the while I was stuttering. When I gave presentations in school, I never veered away from my index cards — not even a word. I made myself memorize the words in their exact order — perfectly. If I fumbled, I was a failure. When I started a job in college, the first time I swept the floor, I took an inordinate amount of time. I was worried that if the manager saw any dirt, she’d think that I wasn’t working hard enough to pick up every speck. When I was accepted to grad school, I thought they could sense my stupidity and lack of skill and send me on my way. (Im... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813361 Wed, 11 May 2011 12:29:54 +0100 4813361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813363&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F10%2Fconquering-performance-anxiety-a-primer-for-all-phobias%2F Public speaking is the king of phobias. That’s according to Taylor Clark, author of the insightful book, Nerve. He writes: According to a 2001 poll, more than 40 percent of Americans confess to a dread of appearing before spectators. (In some surveys, fear of public speaking even outranks fear of death, a fact that inspired Jerry Seinfeld’s famous observation that at a funeral, this means the average person would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy.) To get to the solution of this phobia — which can help us with all our other phobias — Clark tells the story of cellist Zoe Keating. Today her music is featured everywhere from National Public Radio to film scores to European ballets. Clark attended one of her performances and comments, “Keating seemed entirely obl... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813363 Tue, 10 May 2011 14:30:33 +0100 4813363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4803235&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F08%2Fhappy-mothers-day-2011%2F Happy Mother’s Day! For all the moms out there today, I wish you a very warm and thoughtful day full of the love and appreciation from your daughters and sons. I’m eternally thankful for my mom and try and let her know throughout the year of my appreciation. Because, after all, you don’t need a special day once a year to let your loved ones know how much you care about them. While you don’t need to let them know every day, just remembering to let them know from time to time is all that’s needed. People just need to know — and hear — they are loved and appreciated (even if they’re “supposed” to know it). Each year, our writers and bloggers put together some great entries for Mother’s Day. Here’s the batch from this year... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4803235 Sun, 08 May 2011 14:30:04 +0100 4803235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4794896&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F06%2Fthe-greek-miracle-how-ancient-greek-philosophy-can-save-you-or-at-least-improve-your-life%2F Former nightclub owner Nicholas Kardaras died ten years ago. That’s right. For a few minutes his pulse was flat. Then he “pulled a Lazarus” as he describes it. He was revived and clung to life for a bit with the help of a respirator. When he finally emerged from his coma, he was a changed man. Plato, Pythagoras, and the other ancient Greeks saved him. That’s what he says in his new book, How Plato and Pythagoras Can Save Your Life. A drug addict living the glamorous life, rubbing elbows with the likes of John F. Kennedy, Jr., Tom Cruise, and Brooke Shields, he decided to turn all of his time and energy toward ancient Greek philosophy? Why? Kardaras writes: After my post-coma resurrection, I was desperate to better understand the universe and my purpose within it; I guess that a ne... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4794896 Fri, 06 May 2011 17:45:18 +0100 4794896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4789335&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F04%2Fdo-we-become-what-we-hope-well-become%2F “All that we are is the result of what we have thought.” ~Buddha Facebook and other social networking platforms have allowed for reconnections with people who would have been lost to us had we lived in another time.  High school friends I haven’t seen for decades are immediately accessible with a few clicks on my laptop. No other generation in the history of evolution has been able to reach back with such ease into previous sociometric circles to sample how friends have fared throughout their lives.  Other generations have not had the technology to do this, and a new awareness about how early indications during adolescence may affect future life circumstances has become part of our culture.  We can readily see how our teenage buds have managed their lives, and they can see us. Thi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4789335 Wed, 04 May 2011 12:33:11 +0100 4789335 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4780347&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F03%2Fhonoring-your-mom-when-your-relationship-is-thorny%2F Mother-daughter relationships come in many different stripes. But all have one thing in common: They involve a complicated bond. Nothing brings this to light more than the holidays — especially if your relationship has been strained and shaky. On Mother’s Day, in particular, it can be “hard to figure out a way to honor a mom that has been difficult,” said Linda Mintle, Ph.D, marriage and family therapist and author of I Love My Mother, But…Practical Help to Get the Most Out of Your Relationship. I spoke with Mintle for my article on mother-daughter relationships. (Stay tuned!) And I wanted to share her straightforward and wise advice. So how do you honor your mother when your relationship is thorny? Let’s be honest, most Mother’s Day cards are mushy, nauseatingly so. (My... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4780347 Tue, 03 May 2011 11:40:43 +0100 4780347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4775431&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2F02%2Ftwo-important-lessons-from-my-much-procrastinated-trip-to-the-dentist%2F The other day, I finally went to the dentist. I was due for a check-up in July, and for the last eight months, I’ve been moving the reminder card around my office and coming up with new excuses about why I couldn’t make an appointment. I made the Thursday, went in, and the whole process took thirty-eight minutes from the time I picked up a magazine in the waiting room to the time I walked out the door holding my bag with freebie toothbrush and floss. I walked the twenty-five blocks to get there, too, on this beautiful spring afternoon, so even half of my travel time was well-spent. From this experience, I draw two lessons for myself — both of which were quite apparent to me, although I neglected to act on them… 1. Procrastination is itself draining. That reminder c... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4775431 Mon, 02 May 2011 19:08:24 +0100 4775431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4758899&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2Fxpj_yOF7MHw%2F In 2005, Mastin Kipp started sharing inspirational quotes and thoughts with his friends on MySpace; eventually, he took them to Facebook and daily emails. Finally, he migrated to Twitter, and The Daily Love was finally born: What started as a small group of followers quickly turned into 300,000 and growing (with a little help from celebrity friends like Kim Kardashian). Now, The Daily Love has grown into a daily newsletter featuring a cast of well-known and well-spoken inspirational leaders, all of whom spread messages of love and inspiration that have earned The Daily Love big Twitter cred. But behind the scenes, Mastin Kipp is still working hard to create the “daily e-vitamin for your soul” — and he’s even given up his home to do it. We were fortunate enough to speak ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4758899 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:31:32 +0100 4758899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753757&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F26%2F7-tips-for-coping-with-finals%2F It’s that time again if you’re a college or graduate student — time for finals. It’s also time to self-sabotage, to get in your own way in terms of effective studying. We stress out more than usual, even when we’re on top of the material, because of the anxiety surrounding test-taking. But you don’t have to stress out about final exams. You can actually do better (and feel better about your performance) if you keep the stress at bay and focus on simple study skills over the next few weeks. Here’s a few tips for coping with finals to get you started. None of these are going to be eye-opening or stuff you don’t already know… But sometimes we need to be reminded of the things we already know, to drive home their importance. 1. Schedule yo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753757 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:45:49 +0100 4753757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747922&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38609&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDavidSeah-BetterLivingThroughNewMedia%2F%7E3%2Fk_138xFszcQ%2F Years ago, my friend Ashish introduced me to Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art, which opened my eyes to the common struggle that creative overthinkers like myself face every frickin’ day. I keep a spare copy on my bookshelf for times of creative crisis, when doubt is bombarding our position from all sides, like an extra magazine of ammunition. Because, as Pressfield will tell you, being creative is war and your enemy is malevolent manifestation of resistance that actively seeks to tear you down. In terms of creative endeavor, I’m but an amateur ghost namer and demon hunter; Pressfield has written the canonical book on the subject, as far as I’m concerned. Colleen Wainwright has a spiffy review of the book, if you need more convincing. Pressfield’s recent boo... David Seah - Design, Development, Inspiration, Empowerment blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747922 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 09:15:15 +0100 4747922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747921&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2Fb0mwcJJ_eq4%2F That was the question I asked when I was a little kid about 50 years ago. I wanted to make sure we were going to have Easter. If the Easter Bunny died, we wouldn’t have candy or Easter eggs and I wouldn’t get a small present for the holiday if he didn’t show up. I was worried, because my friend Brad had a rabbit that died. I knew that rabbits didn’t live very long, so I was really worried about the Easter bunny. However, true to form, the Easter Bunny showed up that year. He brought colored eggs, jelly beans, yellow peeps, and a small present with my name on it. He didn’t let me down, and he even spent the time to hide all the Easter eggs (He did tell my parents where they were in case I couldn’t find them.) As I remember I did pretty well on the hunt. T... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747921 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 23:59:42 +0100 4747921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4742467&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F22%2F9-tips-to-quit-nagging%2F From what I hear from other people, it’s clear that I’m not the only person who struggles with nagging. It turns out that being a nag is just as unpleasant as being nagged — so finding strategies to stop nagging brings a real happiness boost to a relationship. But even though no one enjoys an atmosphere of nagging, in marriage or any partnership, chores are a huge source of conflict. How do you get your sweetheart to hold up his or her end, without nagging? One of my best friends from college has a very radical solution: she and her husband don’t assign. That’s right. They never say, “Get me a diaper,” “The trash needs to go out,” etc. This only works because neither one of them is a slacker, but still — what a tactic! And they have three children! That&#821... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4742467 Fri, 22 Apr 2011 18:30:02 +0100 4742467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4734207&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F20%2Fstages-of-change-and-motivation%2F In my tutoring for SAT preparation, I have come across themes and variations on the essay questions. One of the most common SAT essay questions is the topic of change and motivation. In one phrasing or another, the SAT asks if we believe that change can come from external sources or if true change comes only from within. Change, motivation, perception of reality — they are all cousins. At my husband’s work as a milieu therapist at a psychiatric hospital, he evaluates patients on their “stage of change” in order to gauge their insight into their condition. The vast majority of the people he runs into are in “pre-contemplation;” they don’t know why they’re in the hospital at all. They create wild confabulations about how the tortured cat deserved it, how they were framed,... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4734207 Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:43:11 +0100 4734207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4719931&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F15%2Fsuffering-the-irritant-that-produces-the-pearl%2F Writing a Commencement speech is like writing your eulogy: You have to nail down in 10 minutes or less a succinct message that represents your entire life. It’s best to capture all the sweat and tears, the laughter and sorrow, life’s drama in a few tight, coherent paragraphs. Having been asked to give one in May to my alma mater, Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Indiana, I have been studying Commencement addresses of the pros: J.K. Rowling, Anna Quindlen, Oprah Winfrey, and Steve Jobs. And here’s what all of them had in common: suffering. Yep. The primary theme in each of these essays is that suffering is the rubble on which success is built. I’m sure that you can bypass suffering altogether, but then you’d have a rather boring Commencement speech. I’ve read some of th... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4719931 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 16:30:29 +0100 4719931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4714825&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F15%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-15-2011%2F When I reflect back on my life, when I recall the really hard times, I think about how I was mere moments away from a breakthrough. If I was worried about a lack of work, I would get an assignment a few days later. If I was feeling upset and lonely, a friend would call that I needed to talk to. Sometimes ambiguity and uncertainty were hours away from answers. I just needed the patience and faith to wait those difficult times through. Although it’s a struggle to see hope in the midst of heartache, sorrow and pain, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. In fact, I am certain you already walked through that door before. This week take some time and reflect on your darkest moments and then think about how you were able to get through it. Maybe the memory of your past struggles and ho... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4714825 Fri, 15 Apr 2011 09:57:11 +0100 4714825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709248&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F13%2Fthe-power-of-re-framing-or-would-a-ranunculus-by-another-name-be-as-beautiful%2F The other night, it was my turn to host my children’s literature reading group — I’m now in three of these groups! Partly because I am in three of the groups, I keep the bar low, so I served take-out Chinese food and store-bought cookies, as I always do. But I did resolve to take the trouble to buy flowers for the table (though I must confess, I didn’t even go to a proper florist’s shop, but went to the deli around the corner from my house — lower the bar). When I want to get the flowers, I was thrilled to see that one of my very favorite flowers was available. I hadn’t even known the name of this flower until a few years ago, and I’ve always been sorry that it has such an unlovely name: ranunculus. I was moved to post this observation on Twi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709248 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:36:25 +0100 4709248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709249&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F13%2F6-reasons-why-its-good-to-be-a-loser%2F It was impossible to miss the white sign that hung over the wall of Saint Mary’s high school lacrosse field yesterday. The thing was as tall as our two-story house with letters as big as construction cranes. With just one word: “Prom?” On the hill behind it stood an adorable high-school junior with red roses. It would have been a perfect scene right out of a Jennifer Aniston movie… had she said yes. Ouch. So the poor guy packed up the humongous sign and his roses, and walked to his car with his chin buried in his chest. I wish I could have run up to him and said, “This experience will make you stronger in the long run … trust me.” Because that’s not just a shallow attempt at consolation. It’s absolutely true. John Grohol wrote a great piece the other day, “Be th... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709249 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 12:54:20 +0100 4709249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704715&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F12%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-12-2011%2F In a writing class recently, my teacher said, “Don’t rush the process.” It made me think of a falling feather. I thought of the way a feather floats down gracefully, floating back and forth, slowly like a dance. There is no rushing a feather. Throwing it down forcefully will not make it get to the ground faster. And there would be something heartbreaking if we tried. We would be missing out out on its beautiful, unpredictable path. It’s also a way to think about healing. It’s frustrating to not be there yet. It’s normal to want to be 100% over whatever it is that is ailing you. It’s normal to want to be successful without going through the challenges and obstacles it takes to get there. But remember. No matter how much you want it, forcing it won&#... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704715 Tue, 12 Apr 2011 11:02:06 +0100 4704715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696954&cid=t_100731_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2F3Eb37NoKR6k%2F Hello, everyone, and nice to see you again. We hope the weekend was refreshing and enjoyable. Now, though, the routine of meetings and deadlines has returned. To cope, yes, we are brewing that mandatory cup of stimulation. Meanwhile, here are some tidbits to get you going. Let us know if you hear anything interesting and have a great, productive day… Endo Pharma Buying American Medical For $2.6 Billion (Associated Press) Intercell Suspends Trial For MRSA Vaccine (Bloomberg News) Actress Sues Lilly For Using Her Face In Prozac Ad (New York Post) Novartis Stops Tasigna Trial In Patients With GIST (Reuters) Inspiration Pharma Eyes Plant In Ireland And 500 Jobs (Irish Post) Merck KGgA Considers Job Cuts At Serono Unit (Reuters) Merck And Sun Pharma Near Generics Deal (LiveMint) British M... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696954 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 11:51:13 +0100 4696954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4693334&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.happiness-project.com%2Ffiles%2Fkeep_a_milestone_journal.mp3_for_audio_podcasting.mp3 2011 Happiness Challenge: For those of you following the 2011 Happiness Project Challenge, to make 2011 a happier year — and even if you haven’t officially signed up for the challenge — welcome! This month’s theme is Memories. Last week’s resolution was to Keep a one-sentence journal. Did you try that resolution? Did it boost your happiness? This week’s resolution is to Keep a milestone journal. You’ll notice that I accidentally switch back and forth in terminology — calling it a “milestone journal” and a “milestone book.” Which phrase has a better ring? Or can you think of a better term, altogether? Click through to watch the video. www.youtube.com/watch?v=QCPq-JTxIMA I’m now offering the videos in podcast form now (wel... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4693334 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 13:55:02 +0100 4693334 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4676870&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2F04%2Ftips-to-start-journaling%2F Journaling — the act of writing things down somewhere (where doesn’t really matter) — has many benefits. Here’s an important one: “It’s not in the rereading that one finds solace but in the writing itself. It’s like crying—you don’t know why, but you feel so much better afterward. Everything pours, streams, flows, out of you aimlessly,” writes Samara O’Shea in her beautifully written book Note to Self: On Keeping A Journal And Other Dangerous Pursuits. Here’s another: Journaling is a profound — and simple — way to get to know yourself better. To figure out what makes you tick. What makes you happy. What makes you defensive. What makes you giggle or grateful or grieve. What makes you who you are. Quite simply, it’s a grea... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4676870 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 16:39:01 +0100 4676870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4664230&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fweb.me.com%2Ftomasulo1%2FDanTomasulo.com%2FAppearances___Contact_files%2FDavid_Harp_DanDuetEtc_3-11.mov “I play the harmonica.  The only way I can play is if I get my car going really fast and stick it out the window.” ~Stephen Wright “Live as if you were to die tomorrow.  Learn as if you were to live forever.” ~Mahatma Gandhi David Harp is the Rosetta Stone of the harmonica.  He has taught over a million people how to play, and holds the world’s record for teaching the most people to play at one time (2,569).  How does he do it? Mindfulness.  Because that’s what he’s really interested in… If you’re like me you probably have at least one, if not two cheap harmonicas lying in the bottom of your closet or in the back of a drawer someplace.  When you see them you take them out of the box, lick your lips, wail unskillfully until you’re out of breath,... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4664230 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 10:00:11 +0100 4664230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4658513&cid=t_100731_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FasEzachSlqQ%2F This study seems to say: “Even though you hate your boss and your baby right now, when you’re 80, it’ll be all good.” That’s much better than believing that everything goes downhill after you start your first job, no? The Telegraph also points out that, while television and movies are stuck fawning over 18-year olds and casting mature women as old hags, society has mad certain strides that benefit the elderly. Andrew Steptoe, professor of psychology at University College London, points out that elderly people enjoy better health and more opportunities for secure income, which he says are “very important” in old age (I’d say they’re pretty important at any age). And I think that’s one of the best things to take away: Despite curren... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4658513 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:21:49 +0100 4658513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4549778&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2F04%2F15-quotes-that-motivate-and-inspire%2F I recently joined “The Psychology Network” on LinkedIn and have been enjoying the discussion among mental health professionals (since I’m not really one, but pretend to be all the time). Especially intriguing was the discussion thread called “What are some of your favorite quotes that have motivated and inspired you?” They are quotes that they share with patients or with each other, or that they just think are cool and sound good. Here are just 15 from the 70 or so responses: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” –Hilary Cooper “If you can keep your wits about you while others are losing theirs and blaming you, the world will be yours.” –Rudyard Kipling “Give a man a fish and you fe... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4549778 Fri, 04 Mar 2011 16:35:15 +0100 4549778 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4490008&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FX6qxEIxZpU4%2F Conclusion Just like the most famous men in the world, you can decide to be successful. Take charge of your life and don’t let anything get you down. Press on, until you reach your goals and before you know it, you will have accomplished the impossible. This was a guest post by Daniel M. Wood a well-known speaker and writer on Personal Development, Sales Technique and Motivation. Visit his blog Lookingtobusiness.com and download your copy of his free e-book, Double Your Income. Sign up for the PTB newsletter! : Reclaim Your Dream, It’s Time to Come Alive Why You Should Read Personal Development Books (Source: PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement) PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4490008 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 06:56:10 +0100 4490008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450533&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FIKw-eYC1M60%2F The number of great posts here about the importance of reading the classics to improve oneself made me think that I should share with your some of my favorite motivational quotes by some of my favorite classical authors. If the classics can help us educate ourselves, then their authors, many of whom have struggled and persevered in the writing of these massive cultural books, can certainly help us motivate ourselves. Here is a selection of five quotations from my quotebook; I often turn to many of these quotes when I find myself in the midst of an enormous challenge or when my spirits flag on some of the more stressful days. I hope they can be of some use to you. “I was working on a proof of one of my poems all the morning, and took out a comma. In the afternoon I put it back in.&#82... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450533 Tue, 08 Feb 2011 06:56:56 +0100 4450533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394677&cid=t_100731_134_f&fid=35179&url=http%3A%2F%2Fscottsdiabetes.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fhealthy-thinkers%2F It’s an idea centered around positive people brainstorming and using collective resources to make real change happen. Jonathan Richman has been involved in healthcare and social media for some time, and he recently shared a couple of stories that helped inspire Healthy Thinkers.  These stories involved him connecting people he knew.  That was it — simply making connections.   Supplies for a mission trip to Africa, knowledge of a prescription medication assistance program, and helping out with the BiG Blue Test, which helped get insulin to those dying without it.  On their own, maybe not huge things.  But I bet if you ask the person getting help with the cost of their prescription medication, they’d say it was a lifesaver. So Jonathan started to think about his social... Scott's Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394677 Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:00:32 +0100 4394677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394507&cid=t_100731_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FlApJ7a3KQeM%2Ffacing-monday.html Last Monday was reported to be the saddest day of this year.   So to help you and I face Monday and the beginning of a new week, in case you missed these stories….. Roger Ebert has written in his Chicago Sun Times blog of how he will once again be “Leading with my chin.”  ………..That was the beginning of a two-year process that has now resulted with my coming into possession of a silicone prosthesis. Dr. Reisberg brought in David Rotter, also from the University of Illinois, and he involved Julie Jordan Brown, a Milwaukee artist and anaplastologist. Working from molds, they created a prototype prosthesis and sculpted it carefully to more closely resemble what had been there before. This device would fit over my lower face and neck and, colored to match my skin, w... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394507 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:12:00 +0100 4394507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4361165&cid=t_100731_129_f&fid=35709&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FUniqueButNotAlone%2F%7E3%2FvOxQNIjtOD8%2Ffaith.html "Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." ~ Martin Luther King, Jr. [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Unique But Not Alone) Unique But Not Alone blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4361165 Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:28:00 +0100 4361165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4324871&cid=t_100731_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2Fu7po3CBJ8aA%2Fconfessions-of-a-lazy-diabetic-the-2-words-that-can-change-your-life.php Ok, I admit it. I've been slacking. I can't believe we're already finished with the first week of 2011! It sounds so space-agey! I'm psyched for the new year, especially because I need the arbitrary reboot. 2010 was particularly challenging for me in both healthy and not so healthy ways. I'd been busy but not productive. Scattered and unfocused. I'd been working but not getting paid. Learning but not acting upon it.And yes, I've been a complication-free diabetic, but not healthy. Up until recently, I had been trying very hard--and not succeeding--in several key endeavors (securing desirable full-time employment, maintaining things like happiness, a steady stream of income, a significant relationship, an organized home, etc.). What I've realized is this: clarity must come first. I've had to... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4324871 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 23:15:26 +0100 4324871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4322650&cid=t_100731_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2Fu7po3CBJ8aA%2Fconfessions-of-a-lazy-diabetic-the-2-words-that-can-change-your-life.php Ok, I admit it. I've been slacking. I can't believe we're already finished with the first week of 2011! It sounds so space-agey! I'm psyched for the new year, especially because I need the arbitrary reboot. 2010 was particularly challenging for me in both healthy and not so healthy ways. I'd been busy but not productive. Scattered and unfocused. I'd been working but not getting paid. Learning but not acting upon it.And yes, I've been a complication-free diabetic, but not healthy. Up until recently, I had been trying very hard--and not succeeding--in several key endeavors (securing desirable full-time employment, maintaining happiness, a steady stream of income, a significant relationship, etc.). What I've realized is this: clarity must come first. I've had to get really clear about exactly... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4322650 Fri, 07 Jan 2011 23:15:26 +0100 4322650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4313980&cid=t_100731_87_f&fid=36069&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffrankiespeakingfrankly.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fclinical-trials-in-medworm-thanks.html It was on the 3rd December 2007 that the wonderful Leonard Sender MD, adolescent and young adult cancer oncologist (now Medical Director of the Cancer Institute at Children's Hospital of Orange County as well as chair of on the board of directors on the also fabulous I'm Too Young For This! cancer foundation for young adults) contacted me with an idea for MedWorm - to use it to disseminate information regarding clinical trials. I only spoke to him I think once (or maybe twice), never met him in person, but he was so supportive and enthusiastic about MedWorm he made a big impact on me in the short few minutes that we spoke.Well, 3 years later, I finally got round to adding clinical trials as new data streams being fed into MedWorm. They only got added properly at the weekend so it will take... Frankie Speaking Frankly blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4313980 Wed, 05 Jan 2011 19:52:00 +0100 4313980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4285181&cid=t_100731_87_f&fid=36069&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffrankiespeakingfrankly.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F12%2Fmotivated-to-do-good.html We I said in my last post that my next post would be about biomass gasification as opposed to mass burn incineration - well that one will just have to wait a few more days because I watched Julian Assange's interview with John Humphrey's last night and it prompted me to write this post instead.The part of his interview that I really like is about 20 minutes in when Assange was questioned by Humphrey's regarding his relationship with the world, his response as to the suggestion of him as some sort of a messianic figure (like it was some sort of a crime - which I find ironic since the members of Christian church are forever trying to become more Christlike and even part of the body of Christ). When asked somewhat accusingly 'So you want to change the world?', Assange replied, without any hes... Frankie Speaking Frankly blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4285181 Thu, 23 Dec 2010 09:41:00 +0100 4285181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4285368&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FPqFIS_QF-AI%2F What would YOU do for someone you loved? I’d do just about anything. It’s true – in fact it’s my greatest weakness. I struggle to set boundaries. I put myself last. And quite frankly, I enjoy ignoring my own untended messes in order to help others clean theirs, leaving my own life in occasional (okay, steady) disarray. But guess what? Loving to help is also my greatest strength (and yours too). You have an unlimited capacity to give. Though, many people don’t recognize this capacity. They fear that they don’t have enough to give. That they’re not important enough to change anyone’s life. They are wrong. Random Acts Of Kindness If you don’t practice, and understand, the simple power of a random act of kindness, then you are setting limits on your life. T... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4285368 Thu, 23 Dec 2010 07:19:00 +0100 4285368 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4190560&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2F1YsN-i0H_qA%2F Alexander Graham Bell was a prominent scientist, inventor, engineer and innovator who is credited with inventing the first “practical” telephone, although some believe he stole the idea from Elisha Gray. Bell’s father, grandfather, and brother were all involved with work on speech and elocution, and both his mother and wife were deaf, profoundly influencing Bell’s life’s work. Bell’s research on hearing and speech further led him to experiment with hearing devices. These experimentations eventually resulted in Bell being awarded the first U.S. patent for the telephone in 1876.  Interestingly enough, Bell considered his invention an interference with his “real” work as a scientist and refused to have a telephone in his study. Bell is also known for many other la... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4190560 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 08:30:38 +0100 4190560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168231&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FjxyF_bCQSQ4%2F My dad, Bill Richardson, has always been my greatest mentor. Veterans day 2010 would have been my dad’s 99th birthday. Born on 11/11/1911 my dad lived his life with two major themes. He always had a positive attitude and he loved to exercise. These two themes have always resonated with me. As a kid, I remember my dad getting up each morning at 4am and heading out on his bike. He would ride 10 to 15 miles every day, usually ending up at a donut shop for a cup of coffee or the local airport coffee shop for breakfast. He loved to ride. He rode his bike almost every day rain or shine. He rode until his knees gave out at 89. And then he started walking and running. He walked until he passed away back in 2005 at the age of 94. Exercise kept him going. This last Veteran’s day weekend I had a... Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168231 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 14:46:57 +0100 4168231 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4168236&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FoxVUS8HrTSg%2F Mohandas Gandhi was the pre-eminent ideological and political leader of India during the Indian independence movement. He pioneered Satyagraha; which is defined as resistance to tyranny through mass civil disobedience.  This is a philosophy based on complete non-violence. This idea assisted India in gaining its independence, and provided motivation for civil rights and freedom all across the world. After assuming leadership of the Indian National Congress in 1921, Gandhi led nationwide campaigns to ease poverty, expand women’s rights, build religious and ethnic amity, end “untouchability,” and increase economic self-reliance. Gandhi lived very modestly in a self-sufficient residential community.  He wore the traditional Indian dhoti and shawl that he hand-spun. He ate vegetaria... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4168236 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 06:12:17 +0100 4168236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4163070&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2F3WW9ESxsH4I%2F You never know when you may be the lucky recipient of an inspirational moment, something that causes you to take pause and think and really appreciate what you have and the incredible resilience of fellow human beings. Last night I went with my wife to a local hole-in-the-wall pizza parlor where we heard rumor live jazz was going to be played. As our neighborhood is sadly lacking in after-hours-entertainment of this type, we showed up early and got a good seat, close to the action but not so close that you had to shout to be heard. It was a small place, probably seating about 50 people max so the setting was very intimate so we were just a few feet away from the live performers. Within twenty minutes, the first musician climbed the stage with saxophone in hand. He did a wonderful job playi... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4163070 Sat, 13 Nov 2010 19:51:51 +0100 4163070 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4086544&cid=t_100731_180_f&fid=38607&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fsuccessbeginstoday%2FBHWQ%2F%7E3%2FOUoK7FuD8A8%2F Seth Godin has an interesting rant on his blog today… Many people in the United States purchase one or fewer books every year. Many of those people have seen every single episode of American Idol. There is clearly a correlation here. He makes the point that we can choose to read a good book… Or we can watch TV. My Question: Have you read a good book lately? If so, please tell us about it in the comments below. (Source: Success Begins Today) Success Begins Today blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4086544 Wed, 20 Oct 2010 13:12:35 +0100 4086544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4077320&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2F17%2Flet-me-live-until-i-die-an-interview-with-thea-bowman%2F Following are excerpts from an interview with Thea Bowman, a Franciscan Sister who became a huge inspiration to black Catholic communities, and to wider circles for her joy and gratitude, her nobility of spirit, and her very real spirituality. The interview, published in Praying magazine and US Catholic, was conducted shortly before she died from cancer, in March 1990, at the age of 53. For me, she is the picture of courage and perseverance of a person living gracefully with pain. Question: What kind of changes have you had to make in your life because of the cancer? Thea Bowman: Part of my approach to my illness has been to say I want to choose life, I want to keep going, I want to live fully until I die … I don’t know what my future holds. In the meantime, I am making a cons... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4077320 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 13:21:40 +0100 4077320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4074012&cid=t_100731_87_f&fid=36069&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffrankiespeakingfrankly.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fradio-interview.html I was invited into the local BBC Radio station yesterday, for a half hour interview on what motivated me to get involved with campaigning. Apparently they were looking for 'inspirational' people and I ticked all the right boxes! That's got to be one of the best compliments I have had in my life :)Of course if meant taking half a day off work, and all the nerves that go with it, but I figured it would be a good experience that would help build my confidence, plus I really did think I had a story that should be told.I actually really enjoyed it. Justin Leigh did the interview (stepping in for the usual presenter - Justin is the one you usually see on Spotlight tv). He was incredibly nice, and made me feel at ease straight away - obviously a very skilled presenter.If you ever get the chance t... Frankie Speaking Frankly blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4074012 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 11:27:00 +0100 4074012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4053490&cid=t_100731_165_f&fid=37962&url=http%3A%2F%2Fotnotes.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F10%2Fcoming-soon-world-ot-day.html When I saw this link listing the schedule of online speakers for World OT Day (10/27/10) I started to get really excited!There are some very famous OTs on this lineup, including Karen Jacobs, Kit Sinclair, Erik Johnson, Michael Iwama, and the current president of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, Sharon Britnell. Props to Merrolee Penman, who appears to be behind the effort.I am always seeking to learn more about occupational therapy and think that seeing the world perspective will be very interesting. I'm not sure if these sessions can be accessed at a later time- I will be working and sleeping through most of them. However, here's what I plan to catch (times EST):2pm: Erik Johnson "Occupational therapy within a military setting" I got to see a short video from Erik during ... Occupational Therapy Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4053490 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 22:08:00 +0100 4053490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4053344&cid=t_100731_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2F09%2Fa-12-step-meeting-on-the-air-an-interview-with-denise-mcintee%2F Earlier this year, I had the privilege of being interviewed on “Steppin’ Out Radio” by WABC-TV Sports Anchor and Reporter Scott Clark. Producer Denise McIntee formed her company, Powerful Radio Productions, to communicate true stories of inspiration and recovery from substance abuse. Denise lives in Sparkill, New York with her twin daughters, Danielle and Dominique, and her husband Mike who works for the Late Show with David Letterman. To find out more about her work, please visit their website at www.steppinoutradio.com. Question: How is Steppin’ Out like a 12-step meeting anywhere in the world? Denise: Steppin’ Out is like a 12 step meeting anywhere in the world because we tell the true stories from real people who have overcome their problems and who unself... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4053344 Sat, 09 Oct 2010 12:49:29 +0100 4053344 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4045135&cid=t_100731_106_f&fid=36682&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSutureForALiving%2F%7E3%2FLmrenm5IVAo%2Frushed-roses-quilt-work-in-progress.html One of my very early post on this blog featured the rushed roses on this quilt. The post is dated May 22, 2007. Yes, that means I have allowed this quilt top to languish for over three years. I admit I fell “out of love” with the quilt top. I love the rushed roses and center, but the blue border doesn’t work for me. The need to appliqué all the small leaves slowed me down too. I admit it was easier to put it aside and piece a baby quilt or two instead. The quilt top has literally hung on my design wall all this time. Granted often covered up by some other work-in-progress. I have decided it is time to re-design the border and breathe new life into the project. I pulled out my books looking for inspiration. I found a pieced border I felt would work. It is the "double folded r... Suture for a Living blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4045135 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 11:21:00 +0100 4045135