Tag Archives: optimism

Some Good News, for a Change

Are you ready for an upbeat newsflash? With all of the negativity between competing Presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump, and the continuing stories of worldwide terrorism, it’s refreshing to learn about a positive story in the media. Two years ago, I blogged about how the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, publicized on social media, had raised $115 million dollars over the summer to fund research into ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). Now, we learn that “ProjectMinE,” partially sponsored by these contributions, has identified a genetic factor associated with familial ALS. … Continue reading

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Healing and Resilience

Tragically, events across America seem to be defining these times as the summer of hate. Divisive rhetoric has spilled over into bloody violence and shootings on all sides during the long weeks. Where are we going as a society with this painful spiral of animosity? Healing, however difficult, can stop the cycle and become a positive response to the pain we feel. When we band together as a nation, we can find common ground and overcome our grief, moving towards peace and reconciliation. We saw such role models last summer … Continue reading

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Positive Effects of Negativity

I was having dinner the other night with a friend who is having a tough time as she goes through a very difficult break-up and I wondered, with all the emphasis in Positive Psychology on resilience and optimism, are we being unrealistic about our abilities to bounce back after a crisis? And is there actually some real value in being unhappy sometimes? Immersed as we are in the ‘dog days of summer’ it might seem like the wrong time to look at such heavy and pessimistic issues, but let’s give … Continue reading

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Parenting Resilient Children

You’ve likely noticed that some children seem to be more resilient than others, overcoming difficult childhoods and dysfunctional relationships. As we highlighted in the post here on Tuesday, a new study labels these kids dandelions since they are able to thrive in less than inviting environs. Here are 6 tips to help your kids become more resilient, whatever type of flower they represent: Encourage them to make connections. Relationships can be a major source of support when times are tough and provide a safe home-base all the time. Family bonds … Continue reading

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