Ending a long-time friendship was one of the most difficult things I’ve ever done. Although it was extremely challenging because I truly cared for my friend, it was also the most liberating action I’ve ever taken on my own behalf.

I discovered how profoundly depleting a friendship can be when it’s a mismatch and one person is dependent on the other. After the initial sadness subsided, it became wildly apparent in so many ways why it was the best decision for both of us.

Choosing what’s best for you sometimes requires unwavering boundaries that can end a friendship. Here's what I learned.

[...]

You know the feeling: you’re exhausted, even though you haven’t done anything strenuous. Your mind races at night with other people’s problems; someone you care about is hurting. Whether it’s a friend, a child, an employee, or a client, you carry their pain like it’s your own.

When a person feels the weight of emotional exhaustion, it’s tempting to blame empathy: “I care too much.” “I feel too deeply.” I’m burning out from empathy.”

It’s a convenient narrative—but inaccurate. 

Estimated reading: 4 minutes

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to easily connect with others, while others struggle to make even small talk feel natural? Or why do some leaders inspire trust, and others don't? The answer often lies in these two powerful skill sets: social intelligence and emotional intelligence.

Let’s explore how these two kinds of intelligence differ, why both matter, and how developing them can make you more effective in every aspect of life.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Do you remember the last time you felt truly alive? Not entertained, not productive, not distracted—but enthralled with life?

If you can’t recall a recent moment of joy or laughter, autopilot may be living for you. It is so deceptively comfortable; sometimes, we don’t even realize we’re operating on cruise control—even when we're miserable. Are you stuck in life? Are unconscious patterns stealing your best life? Find out how to change.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Congrats—you’re engaged! An exciting time for sure!

Scrolling through endless Pinterest posts for inspiration, compiling guest lists, and stressing about the wedding venue—sound familiar?

Is your growing checklist feeling like a second job?

If you're losing touch with the thrill and exhilaration of getting engaged, it’s time to hit the pause button. Your engagement isn’t just a countdown to the wedding—it’s your first lesson in building a marriage worth savoring.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

As much as we love the freedom of summer, the reality of back-to-school is just around the corner. And while the thought of routine and structure might feel like a relief for some, it can be downright overwhelming for others—especially for kids!

The excitement of a new school year mixes with the inevitable stress that comes with new teachers, new routines, and perhaps even new schools. It’s natural to feel a little anxious. However, with the right mindset and tools, you can help your child transition smoothly and ensure they are emotionally prepared for what lies ahead.

Estimated reading [...]

The brain's first job is to keep us safe. That's important, right? Yes, of course. However, if we only spot what's wrong or focus on problems without solving them, we can get stuck in our relationships and lives.

In my first coaching with young adults, couples, or even company leaders, there is a common theme. They point out everything that's wrong. It's true, we have to know what we want to change and that's natural. However, many people get in a cycle of reacting to problems instead of solving them.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Have you ever caught yourself reviewing every detail of your team's work, triple-checking progress on employees, or feeling uncomfortable when others take the lead?

Many leaders try to “empower” their employees with the best of intentions, but slide into micromanagement—especially when the stakes feel high. Other leaders who seek to be authentic overshare with employees to the detriment of a company’s culture.

Find out what neuroscience reveals, why micromanagement doesn’t work, and how authentic leadership requires discernment to be effective.

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Have you ever found yourself snapping at someone, only to instantly regret it? Or struggled to understand why a close friend acted insensitive when you were hoping for emotional support? These experiences often stem from what’s called the empathy gap—an impediment that hinders the understanding between people, and even within ourselves.

Do you know how to bridge this gap in your relationships? Many people don’t!

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes