Hi, I’m Elaine.
I like helping people to tap into their best qualities and to recognize and encourage them in others. I’ve spent a lifetime learning how to be happy by living authentically. Being true to ourselves and open and honest with others can be daunting, but it’s so worth it. It’s something that can be learned over time, one concept at a time.
As a lifelong reader and curious observer, for me being authentic often means going a little deeper to get to the heart of the matter. In my posts, I’ll be offering a sincere and thoughtful exploration into the most intimate and emotionally satisfying aspects of personal growth. I’ll also make suggestions, based on my own experiences, about how you can look within and discover who you truly are, with the goal of helping you to create a more fulfilling life for yourself.
If you’re ready to get started, read on!
Photo by Jennifer Robertson
When it comes to our interactions with others, much as we’d rather believe our frustrations are all their fault, there’s a lot of work to do on our side as well. We sometimes forget to use the emotional tools we already have at our disposal.
Read MoreIn our frustration with others, it's easy to assume that they are the cause of our relationship conflicts. But conflict can resolve spontaneously when we take the time to ask questions and understand fully why other people are doing what they’re doing.
Read MoreIt can be hard to set limits on the behavior of others, even when it is adversely affecting us. Direct communication, with appropriate boundaries, can not only improve relationships, it can sometimes save them.
Read MorePeople with a condition called alexithymia have trouble identifying, processing, and expressing their emotions. If it is a learned response rather than a genetic disorder, information and support can help them expand their emotional awareness.
Read MoreTaking the time to examine our personal values can help us in our decision making. Communicating our underlying beliefs to others can reduce conflict in our relationships.
Read MoreStrong marriages and long-term relationships are balanced, with both partners being equally committed. Making a conscious effort to nurture the relationship together helps keep the romance alive.
Read MoreWhen trying to support loved ones through behavioral changes, a kind, collaborative approach works best. A communication technique called Motivational Interviewing can help.
Read MoreThe words we use have power, especially those we use with ourselves. Choosing a single word to focus on each day can help us be more purposeful about our daily lives.
Read MoreWherever we go, we have the opportunity to set the tone and positively influence others. Being “impeccable with your word” doesn’t mean just telling the truth, but being authentic in all situations.
Read MorePart of living optimistically, with hope, is to know that although some people are capable of hurting us deeply, most people are kind and true to their word, worthy of trust.
Read MoreThe decision about whether to confide in someone requires courage. But if you choose to open up to a trusted friend, it can deepen your connection, and lead to increased intimacy.
Read MoreIt takes courage to stand up for ourselves and have difficult conversations, but doing so can actually improve, rather than damage, our relationships.
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