Gone are the days when intelligence was a test score or a number on the IQ scale. Thanks to modern technology, from brain scans to social media, the idea that intelligence is more multifaceted than book smarts is now widespread. You've probably heard the term emotional Intelligence. But what does it mean to be emotionally intelligent? And is empathy the same thing as emotional intelligence?

It’s easy to think emotional intelligence is all about dealing with mushy feelings or reserved for those who are "too emotional." On the contrary, Emotional intelligence or EQ (as it’s commonly abbreviated [...]

Have you ever wondered why you love checking things off your to-do lists? Heck, I’ve even been known to add something to a list after it’s done, just so I can check it off! Ever done that? It’s not as silly as you may think. Here’s why we get that “feel-good” feeling by performing certain actions.

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Friendship may be one of life's most precious gifts in our lives. Yet, in today's culture, the talk of toxic people and blocking or ghosting has sadly become mainstream. As loneliness and anxiety skyrocket, I wonder if the inability to make and maintain friendships is one of the causes.

Recently, there have been many discussions in my coaching practice about dying friendships, the need for boundaries with friends, and an inability to make new friends as adults.

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

What’s your dream? Ever imagine it a reality?

Have you ever asked yourself, "How do I make my dreams come true?" What if I told you that you’re not too busy, too broke, too stuck in a rut to achieve your dream. It’s true!

Learn simple steps that you can take to achieve any goal, no matter how big. It just depends on how you focus your attention.

Are you fighting aches and pains? Or feeling like your body “just isn’t right”? It could be more than a physical malaise. Maybe emotional conflicts are trying to get you to sit up and pay attention. It might just be time for an emotional reset!

When your back is aching and your shoulders are bound up in knots, there’s nothing like getting a good massage, right? It's easy to recognize when our body needs a break. When we're hungry, we eat; when we're tired, we rest and when our head is throbbing, we reach for relief. But how well do you care for your emotions and emotional well-being?

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One thing is clear—life happens! Every day greets us with challenges: a tough assignment at work, a crabby spouse, a friend who pushes our buttons, or just everyday demands of work and family! It takes emotional fitness to weather life’s storms with level-headedness and equanimity. It requires the skill to stay calm under pressure especially when emotions spike.

How often do you brush your feelings aside because you’re just too busy to deal with them? Are they annoying inconveniences? Do you find yourself ignoring a mounting impatience or frustration until you blow?

Estimated reading time: 3 [...]

Are you just "getting by?" Are you going through the motions (and emotions), but not really passionate or excited about your life?

Do you long for:

• more fulfillment and peace?
• a loving, fun and meaningful relationship?
• a balanced life with inner happiness and ease?
• your dream lifestyle?
• a life with more passion and purpose?
• the ability to raise cooperative yet free-thinking children?

If you’re saying to yourself, “Um, YES! You’re reading my mind!" Then, you may want to explore flexing your muscles in emotional intelligence.

Recently, I watched a video on procrastination, and memories flooded back on my own personal struggles with this beast. Years ago, I was a chronic procrastinator, with tons of guilt and self-condemnation that often accompany this habit. I used to berate myself every time I didn't accomplish my goals or if I procrastinated on an important project or an unpleasant task. It was brutal.

Estimated reading time: 4.5 minutes 

Have you ever had one of those serendipitous days when you had a pleasant surprise change your mood instantly?

Last Saturday, I had a zillion things on my to-do list. The house was deserted—a perfect time to get a ton of work accomplished. But not that day! My brain circuitry was on overload. I headed to Dailey Lake for a quick swim, and I took our golden retrievers along for some exercise.

Arriving at the lake 45 minutes later, I found it busy with vacationers. Driving around looking for a good spot to park, I counted eight dogs along the beach. Parking the car, I opened up the backend and [...]

At a business conference a few years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting and hearing Mark Waldman speak. Mark is a prolific author and considered an expert in the fields of neuroscience, communication, and personal development.

Early in his presentation he asked a simple question: “If you could only have one or the other—money or happiness—which would you choose?” (Answer before you read further.)