Author: Rick Thompson

Have you ever found yourself doubting your memory, emotions, or even your sanity after interacting with someone — especially repeatedly? If so, you may have experienced gaslighting. Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation where someone causes you to question your perception of reality. Over time, it can erode your self-confidence, distort your sense of…

In today’s fast-paced, unpredictable world, stress and uncertainty have become constants. From personal struggles to global crises, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But some people seem to bounce back faster, cope better, and stay grounded through even the toughest times. What sets them apart? The answer is emotional resilience. Emotional resilience is not about avoiding…

Many adults carry invisible wounds from childhood. Not all trauma looks dramatic — some of it is subtle, like emotional neglect, harsh criticism, or feeling unseen. These early experiences can create unmet needs that still shape our thoughts, behaviors, and relationships in adulthood. Reparenting is the process of meeting those needs now — as the…

We all have a voice in our heads — the one that says, “You’re not good enough.” It points out flaws, compares us to others, and questions every decision. This voice is known as the inner critic, and for many, it’s not just background noise — it’s a loud, constant narrator. But here’s the truth:…

Change is inevitable — yet most people resist it. Whether it’s starting a new job, ending a relationship, or simply altering a daily routine, change can trigger deep discomfort. But why is it so hard to embrace something as constant as change? Psychologically, fear of change isn’t irrational. Our brains are wired to seek stability,…

At first glance, perfectionism might seem like a strength — a commitment to excellence, high standards, and ambition. But under the surface, perfectionism often masks chronic anxiety, self-doubt, and an overwhelming fear of failure. The desire to “get everything right” can quickly turn into emotional paralysis, keeping you stuck in a cycle of stress, procrastination,…

Emotional burnout doesn’t always look like total collapse. Sometimes, it’s the quiet numbness, the irritability over small things, or the feeling that even rest isn’t enough. It can creep in gradually, often unnoticed, until you realize you no longer feel like yourself. In today’s fast-paced, hyperconnected world, emotional burnout has become increasingly common — not…

Everyone has a shadow — a hidden part of the psyche that contains thoughts, emotions, and impulses we’ve rejected or denied. These parts don’t disappear. Instead, they linger in the background, subtly influencing how we think, feel, and act. Shadow work is the process of consciously exploring and integrating these hidden aspects of ourselves. It’s…

Motivation is the invisible force that drives human behavior. It pushes us to start a new project, commit to change, or pursue a long-term goal. Yet, just as often, motivation fades. We abandon goals, procrastinate, or burn out. Why do we get so excited at the beginning, only to lose momentum over time? To answer…

Have you ever caught yourself thinking in extremes — “I always mess up,” “No one cares about me,” or “If I fail once, I’m a total failure”? These thoughts may feel convincing, but they are often not based on objective reality. They are what psychologists call cognitive distortions — habitual, biased ways of thinking that…