5 Things We Can Learn From Our Pets

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5 Things We Can Learn From Our Pets

As many of you know from my previous blogs, I am a HUGE animal lover-especially cats!  Ok, saying that I love cats is a major understatement, but you still get my point.  Have you ever just sat and observed animals for a while?  I have and it is one of my favorite things to do.  In fact, I have learned so much from just observing my pets and the animals that live outside such as the birds, squirrels, and chipmunks to name just a few.  Of course, I think part of the reason that they grace my presence is that I supply them with food and fresh water daily, but who wouldn’t stick around when provided with endless food and water!?!?   I have spent hours watching animals in their daily activities and as humorous as they are and as much fun as I get from watching them, I truly believe that we can certainly learn so much from them as well as enjoying their antics.  

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Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health

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You have strep throat.  Although you don’t like going to the doctor, you do it.  You don’t hesitate too much about going except for maybe the fee associated with a medical appointment.  You don’t fear being judged for going to the doctor to get treatment for your sore, red throat.  However, if you are struggling with sadness or struggle with calming racing thoughts, you fear being judged about this.  Why?  Is it because many people don’t understand or believe in the severity and debilitating effects of mental illness?  When you have strep throat or perhaps a broken arm, it is quite easy to recognize and tell how much suffering one is experiencing.  However, with mental illness, the physical signs are typically not as noticeable. 

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7 Strategies On Forgiveness

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Forgiveness.  We hear that word often, but what does it truly mean?  Sure, we all have said “I forgive you” for various things and to many people.  However, do we all have the same understanding of forgiveness?  People likely define and understand forgiveness differently, at least to some extent.   Forgiveness involves working to allow ourselves to become free of negativity such as anger, resentments, desires to seek revenge, and/or see karma happen to those that have wronged us. 

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What Positive Life Changes Will You Make This Year?

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Rather than throwing too much stock in a resolution, I’d suggest that you think about positive life changes you can make. And, set yourself up for success. Take your goals or lifestyle changes and break them down into smaller goals that are measurable. Let’s walk through that a little together….. if your goal is to stop smoking, don’t just say I’m going to stop smoking. First, honestly evaluate how many cigarettes a day you smoke now and then try to reduce your daily amount by let’s say 2 for the next week. And then by another 2 the week after that. Plan do reduce each week by 2 until you are smoke free. Make sure you notice when you tend to smoke or why and be ready with other alternatives. For example if you tend to smoke on a break from work, try drinking a glassful off water instead or call your significant other. Or if you like having something in your mouth, then try to have sugar free lifesavers on hand. 

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