Self-Absorbtion and Maturity — Does Maturity Mean Seeing the Broader Landscape?

Introspection

     Does keeping a journal contribute to self-absorption and narcissism? This article argues that maturity is moving from the close-up to seeing the broader landscape. Focusing less on your weaknesses and more on the broad context. We should not over-analyze information. Ruminators end up making themselves more depressed. Citing newer studies this is a good article for everyone. Look at the mountains not the weeds.

 

….. “Introspective or Narcissistic.?” New York Times (August 8, 2014).

Charisma and Presence — The Office & Social Media — The Message & Communications Need to be Consistent.

Presence (WSJ 8.6.14)

 This article gives you 5 steps for developing ‘presence.’ Most importantly is to stay calm in stressful situations, and then show your teeth when necessary. The way you communicate is important. It’s important to understand that your online presence is part of your corporate and professional presence. So take care.

 

The Charisma Boot Camp.” Wall Street Journal (August 6, 2014).

Promising Development — Blood Test & Risk of Suicide.

Mental Health

This is a really promising development. Early tests indicate that a blood test may be capable of indicating the risk of suicide. More needs to be done. But this holds great promise.

 

Blood Test May Show Risk of Suicide.” Washington Post (July 30, 2014).

Annoying ‘Little Things’ — Discuss Them Sooner Than Later.

Couples (Flaws)(WSJ 7.30.14)

What do you do when something your partner does that used to be funny now drives you crazy? This article discusses how partners grow apart and often change their perception of each other, especially their ‘little things.’ The solution — Discuss these perceptions and communicate how you feel about them. Sooner the better. With good will you can overcome the friction. Sounds like sound advice.

 

Couples, Beware: Adorable Traits Become Unbearable Flaws.” Wall Street Journal (July 30, 2014).

Equality within Marriages but Inequality Among Couples — Tough Economic Times and the New Instability.

couples

This is a good article discussing the evolving relationship of couples in today’s socioeconomic times. The author argues there is a dual characteristic. On the one hand, there is growing equality within marriages. Yet, there is a growing inequality among families. This is creating on balance a new instability. Unfortunately, this seems accurate given the last seven or eight years of economic stagnation for most but soaring wealth for a few. “The New Instability.” Sunday New York Times (July 27, 2014).

Five Rules for a Happy Marriage …. You’re a Team !

Happy Marriage (Parade 7.26.14)

Good article on maintaining a good marriage. Five rules. But the most important one is that you are a TEAM. A partnership as you go through life. Good advice. “Happily Ever After.” Parade (July 26, 2014).

 

Paranoia at Work …. Build Relationships …. Most Important

Cyberespionage

Good article on the workplace. The conclusion is that hard work is important but relationships in the workplace are most beneficial. But you need a balance in the workplace — a good degree of suspicion and vigilance. “Paranoia at the Work is Out to Get You.” Financial Times ((July 18, 2014).

Don’t Apologize So Fast — Take a Timeout & Then Talk.

Couples in Business

     Good article offering five steps to take after an argument with your partner. The best advice: Take a timeout and then discuss the underlying issues honestly.
 
Don’t Apologize So Fast.” Wall Street Journal (July 15, 2014)

 

Mental Illness is Our Most Urgent Problem — Anxiety & Depression — Action Needed.

Mental Health
    A great commentary by Martin Wolfe of the Financial Times arguing that mental health is our most urgent health problem. He states “Depression and anxiety cause more misery than physical illness ….” We need to take needed action, says Martin Wolfe. Yes, this is long overdue. Mental Illness.” Financial Times (July 17, 2014).

“Ban the Silent Treatment’ — Need a More Positive Approach for Better Communications.

                                                  Depression
     Really interesting article about the dangers of utilizing “the silent treatment” in marital communications. This is a poor communication technique. It often leads to greater escalation of issues. The solution is both simple and hard. There needs to be more active engagement and communication. This takes work on behalf of both parties. But it’s worth it.

 

 

     ……………. “Ban the Silent Treatment.” Wall Street Journal (July 17, 2014).

 

E-Mail:  SandyMalawer@Counseling-Connection.net
Website: www.Counseling-Connection.net
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