Self-Improvement

New research suggests that handgun purchasers with a previous DUI conviction are more likely to commit violence crimes than handgun purchasers without a DUI record. Researchers identified every individual between 21 and 49 years old who legally purchased a handgun in California in 2001; researchers then identified any violent crime…

Today, social conscience is an extremely valued asset.  How we act is typically dependent on the people we interact with in personal and professional settings.  Some struggle evaluating situations and utilizing social conscience, and it shows when mishaps and faux pas occur.  How we react to our oops moments places…

We all have intense cravings for indulgent foods, like pizza and ice cream. And there’s nothing wrong with indulging every now and then. But if you’re trying to eat healthier or you’re following a strict diet, you’re met with the challenge of defeating these food cravings. Here are four tips…

A friend of mine is in a band called No Fuss and Feathers, and I recently went to one of their concerts.  During their set, they played a song called How Much Time, and it hit me right in the heart. It is a story about a chance encounter on…

As human beings, we are drawn to material things.  We each have items that we collect that show others who we are and what we value.  For me, it’s books. I have books in almost every room in my home. It’s obvious that they matter to me, based on the…

Do you have someone in your life who is always moaning and groaning about something?  It seems like we all have that one person. They never seem to take responsibility for anything, including their own happiness.  They blame others for their emotions and circumstances they’re in. Maybe this person you…

Grit is a term made prevalent by Angela Duckworth from the University of Pennsylvania.  She’s initiated a discussion about the correlation between grit, the tendency to maintain interest and effort in long-term goals, and self-control – the ability it takes to focus in the face of temptation or change. Thanks…

Let’s say you blew it on a first date. Or meeting your significant other’s parents didn’t go as planned. Whatever the case, a bad first impression has left you feeling hopeless. What now? Instead of ruminating over the uncomfortable encounter, follow these three steps to recover. One, calm down. You’re…

Many people don’t respond well to criticism; however, when we learn how to accept and respond well to criticism, we can use it to our benefit. Here’s how: First, stop yourself from reacting right away. Our first response to criticism isn’t usually productive, but defensive. Then, remind yourself that most…

Even when we feel like nothing can bring us down, life can become challenging.  It’s hard to enjoy life without being mentally and physically healthy. Taking care of yourself includes monitoring not only your physical health, but your mental health as well. If we feel under the weather, we make…

We want to help you set goals that yield real results. The shortcut is to set S.M.A.R.T. goals, or goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time bound. Let’s talk about each section.  First, specific. Identify exactly what is expected and define the 5 w’s: Who is involved? What…

Do you want to be the most approachable person in the room? Follow these four tips. One, keep an open body position. Your arms should be loose, your head and eyes level with the room. This will communicate confidence and invite people to talk to you right off the bat….