On a recent family vacation, I arrived to Bali wearing a green t-shirt with the “Biofreeze” trademark emblazoned across the chest. It was one of six t-shirts I had brought on the journey with the intention of leaving them behind at the end of the trip. To be clear, there was nothing wrong with the […]
The greatest irony of modern life is that the two things we need more of are movement and stillness. Our bodies and minds evolved to live a life of balance between activity and rest, but modern lifestyle seems to prevent us from doing either very well. Modern conveniences and technology, for example, have stifled our […]
The internet is making us stronger, faster and fitter. But this is not the story that we usually like to tell. The more popular version is that the internet is causing us to spend more time sitting at desks, staring at screens, and making us more sedentary than ever before. And there is some truth […]
I wanted to hit the ground running in 2015. Instead, I feel like I just hit the ground. I spent the first ten days of the year laid out flat on my back with a fever and a hacking cough. It is not like me to do literally nothing for a week. Even if I am […]
Positive Psychology has a problem. This is difficult for me to say, as I am an enthusiastic proponent of positive psychology. I study the science. I apply it both personally and professionally. I write about it in my books, articles and blogs. And I teach it in my courses. But I have to admit, the […]
Happiness is found in the present moment. At least that is the popular narrative in Western culture where there is a growing appreciation for the benefits of mindfulness. But I have argued that in addition to “The Power of Now,” there also exists “The Power of Before and After.” We don’t only benefit from the […]
Earlier in my life, I lived in Mexico for a few years. Being a “fish out of water” in a new culture is an amazing experience. It is challenging, stressful, and hard work. But it’s rewarding too. Every day, every relationship, every interaction is an opportunity for learning and growth. I remember at one point, […]
Today’s article was originally posted as a response to a question on Quora. The question was, “When you get knocked down, will you stay down or get up?” The most popular answer was a personal story shared by Abby Smith, a 19-year old woman who has been knocked down. But every day she gets up […]
I literally JUST bought a pair of the now-infamous Vibram FiveFinger shoes. I was excited by the purchase. I brought them home and tore them out of the box with the same fervor that my 4-year-old son shows when opening Christmas presents. But by the time I had finally managed to wrangle my wayward piggies […]
I’ve been working in Manhattan a lot lately, which means a lot more time on the subway. When you’re not used to it, it’s an interesting experience to be crammed into a small space with so many other human beings. Naturally, it’s a great opportunity to people-watch, but I notice that I often feel a […]
