Some people have obsessive-compulsive tendencies. They like things organized and precise. They don't like clutter. Some people have obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. They are rigid in their thinking, want things done their way, don't like change. Some people have obsessive-compulsive disorder. They can't control their thoughts. Or they can't stop washing their hands, checking locks on doors, or counting to a certain number before doing a particular action. It can be extremely time consuming, debilitating and emotionally overwhelming. Fortunately, they can be treated with cognitive therapy and/or medications.

Denial, rationalization and projection are several defense mechanisms that help us reduce our anxiety and angst by fooling us into believing something about ourselves that isn’t true. In the short run, it may be a positive. But in the long run it proves to be a big mistake not to hold a mirror up to our beliefs, our biases, and our self-image. Best we be open-minded and willing to look at our flaws and imperfections. They don’t make us evil or horrible people. It is actually strength and not weakness to admit when we’re wrong. Ultimately, the best way to live our lives is to be as honest as we can with ourselves and others. And to be compassionate in the process of sharing our truth.

Denial, rationalization and projection are several defense mechanisms that help us reduce our anxiety and angst by fooling us into believing something about ourselves that isn’t true. In the short run, it may be a positive. But in the long run it proves to be a big mistake not to hold a mirror up to our beliefs, our biases, and our self-image. Best we be open-minded and willing to look at our flaws and imperfections. They don’t make us evil or horrible people. It is actually strength and not weakness to admit when we’re wrong. Ultimately, the best way to live our lives is to be as honest as we can with ourselves and others. And to be compassionate in the process of sharing our truth.

Someone mocked a news story about New Zealand acknowledging that animals think and have feelings, and are sentient beings. This saddened me deeply. We are so busy advancing our technology in our efforts to master the universe that we forget we are part of the animal kingdom and owe an allegiance to all creatures great and small. To lack compassion for the meek and helpless, choosing to exploit them rather than protect them, is the symptom of a soul sickened by ego and avarice. What can we do about it? We can be a role model of compassion and right action. We can extend love to everyone as best we can. We can practice humility and grace in all of our transactions with others.

Someone mocked a news story about New Zealand acknowledging that animals think and have feelings, and are sentient beings. This saddened me deeply. We are so busy advancing our technology in our efforts to master the universe that we forget we are part of the animal kingdom and owe an allegiance to all creatures great and small. To lack compassion for the meek and helpless, choosing to exploit them rather than protect them, is the symptom of a soul sickened by ego and avarice. What can we do about it? We can be a role model of compassion and right action. We can extend love to everyone as best we can. We can practice humility and grace in all of our transactions with others.

Social Anxiety Disorder is a condition of extreme anxiety related to meeting new people and being around people, the fear being that you will say or do something that will appear incredibly foolish and embarrassing. Rather than get proper treatment, you tend to avoid people and co-exist with your discomfort and happiness. But it doesn't have to be that way. There are techniques for decreasing the anxiety, de-sensitizing yourself, and increasing your self-esteem and confidence.

Social Anxiety Disorder is a condition of extreme anxiety related to meeting new people and being around people, the fear being that you will say or do something that will appear incredibly foolish and embarrassing. Rather than get proper treatment, you tend to avoid people and co-exist with your discomfort and happiness. But it doesn't have to be that way. There are techniques for decreasing the anxiety, de-sensitizing yourself, and increasing your self-esteem and confidence.

I talk about God, religion, the Golden Rule, dealing with self-centered people, interrupting people, setting boundaries, dealing with resentments, and dealing with people who trigger you.

I talk about God, religion, the Golden Rule, dealing with self-centered people, interrupting people, setting boundaries, dealing with resentments, and dealing with people who trigger you.

When we say “not yet” rather than “no,” we are sending a positive message to our subconscious mind that we eventually plan to do it and get it done. However, we should also keep in mind: “If not now, when?,” so that we don’t perpetually procrastinate and never complete the task.