Codependents are often caretakers, which is a great quality—except we tend to do it at our own expense, and often when help isn’t wanted or needed. The result is a codependent pattern of rescuing, resenting, and regretting. Learn to break this pattern and stop rescuing and enabling. Codependent rescuing Rescuing is an unhealthy version of …
The end of 2021 is finally here! Even though it’s been a difficult year for many of us, it’s useful to reflect on the past – to grieve our losses, notice what we overcame and learned, and acknowledge the positives. When we move on too quickly, we may miss the complexity of how these experiences …
I’ve gathered all of my resources for coping with the holidays here for easy access. If you’re having a hard time, I hope you’ll find some support and guidance to help you through the challenges that often come with the holidays. Articles Holiday Self-Care: Coping with Stress and Difficult Family Members 6 Things You Can …
The holidays are here again! We all know it’s supposed to be a joyful time of year – filled with happy family gatherings, plentiful gifts, and a joyful spirit. But for some, the reality is far different – the family gatherings are painful, finances are tight, and you feel anxious and overwhelmed. How can we …
Holiday Self-Care: Coping with Stress and Difficult Family Relationships Read More »
Gratitude doesn’t always come easy When times are tough—and you’re feeling discouraged, alone, anxious, or angry—it’s hard to be grateful. We know we’re supposed to feel grateful. It’s Thanksgiving time after all. But you may be having a hard time tapping into gratitude right now. Perhaps you’re out of work or you dread seeing your …
Are you guilty of giving unsolicited advice? Advice is usually intended to be helpful. And many of us (myself included) offer guidance and suggestions, even tell others what they should do, without being asked. Regardless of our intentions, giving advice that isn’t wanted, can be annoying, intrusive, and even manipulative. In this article, we’ll explore …
Unsolicited Advice: What It Is and How to Avoid It Read More »
Is hard for you to talk about your feelings? Or do you have trouble asking for what you need in your relationships? If so, you’re not alone! Talking about your feelings can be scary Sharing your feelings can be a daunting proposition. When you share your feelings, you allow yourself to be vulnerable. And vulnerability …
Note: This article is about adult children of alcoholics (commonly abbreviated as ACAs or ACOAs). However, the dynamics that are described apply to adults who grew up in an array of dysfunctional circumstances, including those with parents who were mentally ill, abusive, or addicted to other substances. Feeling out of control is scary for most …
Adult Children of Alcoholics and the Need to Feel in Control Read More »
My new book, The Better Boundaries Workbook, will arrive in just a few weeks (November 1, 2021, in the U. S.). I’ve been working on this book for the last two years and I’m excited to share it with you. And to help you get excited, I’ve created some early-order gifts for you. Why pre-order? …
What is codependency? You may be in a codependent relationship if you “over-function” and your partner (or friend or family member) “under-functions”. In other words, you put too much focus on doing things for other people but neglect your own needs. Codependent relationships can exist between spouses, parents and children, friends, co-workers, etc. For simplicity, …
