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 you become frustrated trying to solve a problem, rather than persist for too long, take a break to do another activity that requires some focus. Research shows it will allow your brain to keep working on the problem to find a solution.
Read MoreWhen we receive a warm embrace, we don’t have to wonder about how someone feels about us. In addition to improving our relationships, hugs reduce our stress, strengthen our immune systems, and promote resilience.
Read MoreThere are many opportunities for moments of pleasure throughout our day, if only we take note of them. Doing so can increase our overall level of happiness.
Read MoreSending a child off to college evokes complicated emotions, including sadness and anxiety. In time, most parents adjust, and begin to take advantage of their newfound freedom to explore their own opportunities for growth.
Read MoreThe concept of spring cleaning is linked to various religious and cultural traditions. Cleaning actually has health benefits associated with it, and decluttering can improve our moods.
Read MoreFriendship is a rare and special gift. Each relationship has its own pattern, which evolves over time. It’s best not to hold on too tightly.
Read MoreTo have a happy life, it’s important to find balance in all things, but especially in the areas of work and play.
Read MoreBeing too other-focused comes at a cost. It is only when we become still and listen that we can return to ourselves and discover the next right thing.
Read MoreReciprocity in relationships gives each person a turn to be the giver and a turn to be the receiver. If we exclusively give, we rob others of the opportunity to feel the joy inherent in helping others.
Read MoreFor all the contributions the Irish have made to civilization, it’s their people—full of charm, stories, and song—that we celebrate today.
Read MoreJust as we can take steps to develop physical immunity, we can cultivate mental immunity as protection against suffering. Meditation and reflection can help lessen the intensity of negative thoughts and feelings.
Read MoreEach of us has some parts of our personalities we’re not proud of. Rather than try to shun our “shadow selves,” we can integrate them back into our core self by becoming curious about their origins, and showing them compassion.
Read More
