GUEST BLOGGER: DEBBIE MANDEL, M.A.

Many of us have trouble listing our signature strengths, but can easily itemize the flaws. Along the way we force ourselves to fit the mold and become an artificial version of ourselves.  Even worse, the self-criticism accompanying these imperfections causes a free-floating uneasiness leading to irritability or self-suppression. Consequently, we overdo – deplete ourselves with busyness to atone or even take medication.  Sometimes we internalize our weakness to the point that we walk around with a chip on the shoulder, often taking the offensive as a pre-emptive strike due to heightened sensitivity. Read more [+]