assertiveness training, clear communication, healthy boundaries, introspection, relationships, self-awareness, self-care

Healthy Boundaries: The Foundation of Happiness and Emotional Well-Being

Maintaining healthy boundaries is the blueprint for a fulfilling life. Boundaries aren’t obstacles; they are essential guidelines that protect your well-being, define your personal space, and ensure mutual respect in your interactions and relationships. We all have our no-nos in life, and when these limits are crossed, it leads to emotional exhaustion, less happiness, and ...

Nathan Machoka

Young man and woman sitting together while watching boats in the harbor.

How Accepting Pain Can Improve Your Emotional Well-Being

Everyone encounters suffering or pain at various points in their lives. This may be physical, emotional, or psychological, and it’s expected to want to resist it and find ways to escape it.  But the key to overcoming pain may be to accept it instead of resisting it. Leslie Becker-Phelps, an acclaimed psychologist and author, has ...

Nathan Machoka

A woman suffering emotional pain.

Unhealthy Competition May Be Holding You Back: Why You Should Let Go

Unhealthy competition is characterized by a win-at-all costs mentality, envy, deceit, and disregard for others, among other harmful means. This type of competition is detrimental to the individual and the society. But what are the root causes of unhealthy competition? Which signs can help you avoid these murky competition grounds? And lastly, what are the benefits ...

Nathan Machoka

Men competing with each other.

Beyond Words: The Value of Keeping Your Promises

The two words “I promise” carry a lot of weight, which is why when people break promises, it can create a crack in the relationship and lead to a loss of trust. Some may argue that not all promises hold the same weight. However, whichever way you look at it, a commitment is still a ...

Arianne Ayson

Young businessman in a navy suit wearing glasses.

Disagreeing Gracefully: How to Foster Understanding in a Polarized World

Most of us have found ourselves embroiled in a heated disagreement, feeling so hurt or frustrated that we vow never to speak to the other party again. But in retrospect, where exactly did things go awry? Could the conversation have taken a radically different turn if we had approached it with more understanding and grace? ...

Nathan Machoka

Man and woman in a heated argument.

Song Dynasty Love Story: The Tale of Liu Tingyi

In the annals of Chinese history, some names shine brighter than others. Su Dongpo, also known as Su Shi, is one such luminary — a renowned poet, essayist, painter, and statesman of the Song Dynasty. His influence was vast, comparable to the likes of Shakespeare in the West. Su’s writings give us a profound window ...

Mikel Davis

Artwork titled 'Lone Scholar in the Autumn Woods' by Zhang Daqian, using ink and color on paper.

Reviving the Art of Family Service: A Return to Meaningful Connections

In today’s fast-paced and digitally driven world, where individualism and personal pursuits often take precedence, the art of family service has taken a backseat. However, a heartening shift is underway as the lost skill of serving your family is making a heartwarming comeback.  The renewed interest in prioritizing family connections and nurturing bonds underscores a ...

Viena Abdon

Family sitting on the sofa with popcorn watching a movie.

How to Stop Being Condescending: 7 Strategies to Build Genuine Connections

Have you ever found that your remarks come across as condescending, hurting, or belittling someone when you didn’t intend them to? Relationships can be damaged, and communication can be hampered by condescension, often manifested in a condescending tone or attitude.  To promote healthy interactions and create lasting connections, you must recognize this behavior within yourself ...

Viena Abdon

The word 'condescending' in a dictionary.

7 Ways to Practice Virtue in Dating

Virtue, described as moral excellence and honorable conduct, is a concept that goes deeper than a simple definition. More than just a word, it aligns with principles such as morality, integrity, and ethical strength. It can be interpreted in multiple ways, but how is it relevant to dating? 7 ways to incorporate virtue into dating ...

Viena Abdon

Young man and woman sitting together while watching boats in the harbor.

Getting a Prenup: The Pros and Cons of Prenuptial Agreements

Marriage is a significant step in life, and couples should contemplate various aspects before tying the knot. One such consideration is having prenuptial agreements, popularly known as prenups. But what are their benefits? Who benefits from them? And is it bad if your partner wants one? Understanding prenuptial agreements They are a blueprint for asset ...

Nathan Machoka

A prenuptial agreement.