https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog daily 1.0 2026-02-15 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/pursuing-eq monthly 0.5 2026-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1771195742972-YGFV2DQC22BL1JPAA633/unsplash-image-8_EBRGpEx0I.jpg Blog - Pursuing EQ - Make it stand out Ever hit "send" on a text when you were fuming, only to stare at your phone two minutes later wishing you could teleport into the void? Or maybe you snapped at your lab partner because you stayed up too late studying, and now things are... awkward. We’ve all been there. No matter how high your GPA is or how many goals you score on the field, we all struggle with managing our emotions. When we lose our cool, we usually pay the price later—whether it’s a strained friendship or a meeting with the dean. There’s this old-school idea that you’re supposed to "leave your feelings at the door" when you walk into a classroom or a job. But let’s be real: emotions aren’t like a pair of muddy sneakers you can just kick off. They follow you in. And usually, the people we care about the most—our best friends, our family, or our favorite teachers—are the ones who end up dealing with our bad moods. Why It Matters Research shows that "big" negative emotions like stress, frustration, and fear don't just feel bad; they actually sabotage your brain. They mess with your: Focus and Attention: Hard to study when your brain is on fire. Memory: Stress literally "blocks" your ability to recall info during a test. Decision-Making: Anger makes us choose options we’ll regret by sunset. This is where Emotional Intelligence (EQ) comes in. Think of EQ as the "operating system" for your life. If you can upgrade it, everything else runs smoother. Here are three science-backed ways to boost your EQ right now. The 2-Minute "Internal Traffic" Check When we're rude or reactive, it’s usually not because we're "bad people." It’s because we aren't being self-aware. Self-awareness is the ability to notice what’s happening in your head before you act on it. Try this: Sit down, close your eyes, and check these three things: Body Scan: Are you hungry? Tired? Is your jaw clenched? Thought Traffic: If your thoughts were cars on a road, is it a quiet country lane or a 5-lane highway at rush hour? Emotion Meter: On a scale of 1–10, how intense are you feeling? Is it a "pleasant" intense (excitement) or "unpleasant" (anxiety)? Why do this? If you realize your "thought traffic" is at a 10, you might want to wait an hour before having that tough conversation with your partner. You’re giving yourself a chance to "clear the road" first. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1771195870643-J3XB8QSGCH3A2UTW3XHZ/unsplash-image-b_wcdJKZw0A.jpg Blog - Pursuing EQ - Make it stand out Hack Your Nervous System (The 4-8 Breath) If you’re about to give a presentation or walk into a high-stakes tryout, your "fight-or-flight" system is probably screaming. You can actually "hack" your biology using your breath. The Science: When you inhale, your heart rate speeds up. When you exhale, it slows down. The Move: Inhale for a count of 4, and exhale for a count of 8. Do this for two minutes. It signals your parasympathetic nervous system (the "rest and digest" mode) to take over. You’ll go from a panicked 10 to a chilled-out 3 faster than you can finish a TikTok. Become a "Positive Energizer" Have you ever noticed that some people leave you feeling totally drained, while others make you feel like you can take on the world? The latter are what psychologists call Positive Energizers. Being a positive energizer isn't about "toxic positivity" (pretending everything is perfect when it’s not). It’s about micro-moments of upliftment. It takes ten seconds to: Give a genuine compliment to a classmate. Share a laugh during a stressful project. Listen—really listen—without looking at your phone. Research shows that when you lift others up authentically, you get a hit of dopamine too. It’s a win-win for your mental health and your reputation. Listen to this reflection from author and speaker Dr. Arthur Brooks on developing metacognition as an EQ skill: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/0d242e68-23c5-4b01-b620-350b3fd0193d/image+%281%29.png Blog - Pursuing EQ - Make it stand out The Bottom Line We spend years learning math and history, but we rarely get a class on "How to Be a Human." Cultivating EQ—self-awareness, self-regulation, and connection—doesn't just make you "nicer." It makes you more effective, less stressed, and way more likely to succeed in whatever you do next. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/creativity-networks monthly 0.5 2026-01-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1768881017386-KA2G0I25V5L0UY64B6BI/unsplash-image-AR5uYmpuYoA.jpg Blog - Creativity Networks - Make it stand out Ever feel like your brain is a constant battle between "daydreaming about the weekend" and "actually doing your homework"? Most people think you have to choose one: you’re either a logical, focused person or a "starving artist" lost in the clouds. New neuroscience proves that the most creative people aren’t just dreamers—they are actually pro-level multitaskers who know how to balance both worlds. Meet Your Creative "Power Trio" Forget the old myth that you’re either "left-brained" or "right-brained." In reality, your brain uses three specific networks to get creative work done: The "Laser" (Executive Attention Network): This is your focus mode. It kicks in when you’re solving a hard math problem or listening to a lecture. It’s located in the front and back of your brain (prefrontal cortex and parietal lobe). The "Dreamer" (Imagination Network): This is where you go when you’re mind-wandering or imagining the future. It lives deep inside the brain’s temporal and prefrontal regions. The "Switch" (Salience Network): This is the air traffic controller. It watches everything happening and decides when to "pass the baton" from the Dreamer to the Laser. The Massive Global Study A team of scientists recently conducted the biggest study ever on this topic. They looked at 2,433 people from the U.S., China, Austria, Japan, and Canada. Because the study was so diverse, we know these results apply to everyone, regardless of where they are from. The big discovery? The most creative people have a "Balanced Brain." They measured something called Switching Frequency—basically, how fast and smoothly your brain can toggle between "Dreamer" mode and "Laser" mode. Segregation: When your brain networks work alone. Integration: When your brain networks work together. Highly creative people are incredibly flexible. They don’t get stuck in one mode; they switch back and forth efficiently, like a pro gamer moving between different controls. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1768881151407-L6CT7ZPQ0F1Q564SYKSG/unsplash-image-6dN9l-gopyo.jpg Blog - Creativity Networks - Make it stand out The "Goldilocks" Zone The study found that you don't want too much of one thing. The best creative thinkers live in the "Goldilocks Zone" of moderate cooperation. Intelligence is about pulling facts you already know. Creativity is about this "neural agility"—the ability to dream up a wild idea and then immediately use your focus to see if that idea actually works. Fun Fact: This switching ability is specific to creativity. Being "book smart" (high IQ) doesn't necessarily mean your brain is good at this specific type of switching! Listen to this reflection from the Huberman Lab on building your creative flow: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/f339b13a-44a5-49bb-9477-8be76e7c17c6/Brian+Comparison.png Blog - Creativity Networks - Make it stand out The Bottom Line: You don’t have to be "mad" to be creative. You just need a brain that is fluid enough to dream big and focus hard at the same time. By being mindful of your daydreams, you aren't wasting time—you're actually leveling up your creative potential. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/holiday-renewal monthly 0.5 2025-12-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1764906017750-N16WT970PR33AO00F4VT/unsplash-image-M31P8eZO_Hc.jpg Blog - Holiday Renewal - Make it stand out We're told the winter holidays are a magical time of deep connection, good meals, warm fires, and gift-giving. And yet, for many of us, the season falls short of these grand expectations. Why? Because we struggle to strike the right balance between rest and productivity. Finding this balance can be tough—especially when family, friends, and even bosses have strong opinions on how you should spend your time. But it is not too late to take control and get what you need this holiday season. The final weeks of the year offer a unique opportunity to rest, reflect on the past, and prepare for the year ahead. To recapture this time and make your holidays both restful and productive, you must first understand your default tendencies. Among working professionals, we have identified three common types of "holiday time misusers." What Is your default holiday mode? 1. The Couch Potato The moment the last work email is sent, the Couch Potato flips the "off" switch and sinks into complete disengagement. Their only goal is an involuntary compulsion: to see how many TV seasons they can binge-watch. While they anticipate feeling refreshed by this extreme inactivity, they often end the holiday feeling frustrated and unprepared, asking, "What did I do that whole time?" Why it's unsatisfying: While a little disengagement is necessary, pure "vegging out" neglects other crucial needs you've ignored for months: meaningful social interaction (sorry, watching Netflix doesn't count), physical activity, and active contemplation. 2. The Holiday Humbug The Holiday Humbug keeps working straight through the break. Even when technically off the clock, they cram work around meals and personal commitments. The problem is obvious: research shows we need regular lulls and breaks, and ignoring this need is a direct path to burnout. Why it's so tempting: For the chronically overwhelmed, the holidays present an irresistible opportunity: the chance to catch up. Days free from back-to-back meetings and a steady stream of emails are non-existent during the year. Bain & Company partner Eric Garton’s research shows most managers only have about seven hours of focused work time per week, often in small chunks. The allure of uninterrupted days to clear the backlog is powerfully appealing. However, using your holidays to work might reduce short-term stress, but it means you miss the opportunity to reduce your long-term stress by fully recharging. 3. The Workaholidayic The Workaholidayic applies their workaholic tendencies to a different context. They rush from one holiday party to the next, travel miles to see every relative, and pack their schedule until they have no time to stop, rest, or be alone. Why they do it: This may stem from a lack of self-protective boundaries ("I feel too guilty to tell Aunt Sandra we can't visit") or simply letting ingrained work habits continue to drive them. Whatever the underlying reason, these individuals get swept along in a tide of parties, gift swaps, and events, finding themselves in the New Year feeling frazzled and even more burnt out. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1764981421120-KBBYDTELQWLYHZOFQFVY/unsplash-image-SUTfFCAHV_A.jpg Blog - Holiday Renewal - Make it stand out Intentionally choose a more balanced way. Once you’ve recognized your tendencies, the challenge is to strategically chart a healthier course. Use these tips to build a holiday that truly recharges you: Set sustainability goals for your holiday: Channel your high-performing, goal-oriented drive toward your well-being. Set concrete goals around how much you want to sleep, how much you want to exercise, and how much "work work" you'll allow yourself to do. Treat rest like an essential project. Prioritize processing time: If you're busy, you likely haven't taken time to process the past year. Not processing your experiences is like leaving your mental inbox overflowing—it taxes your cognitive load. Whether you journal quietly or have deep conversations with loved ones, clear your mental inbox to calmly prepare for new experiences. Use these reflective questions for your end-of-year processing, and then share your answers with people who were part of these experiences: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7931212a-3816-4a6b-8dd8-41f26a74de69/reflections.png Blog - Holiday Renewal - Make it stand out Additional reflective questions for forging the year ahead: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1e55afb1-864b-4c55-b1e0-6ac1597058a6/Activations.png Blog - Holiday Renewal - Make it stand out Check out this episode of How to Build a Happy Life for insights on making the most of your free time: https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/standing-against-second-hand-stress monthly 0.5 2025-12-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/18874e1e-268d-45b2-b405-47649b2cf7ca/winds.jpg Blog - Standing against Second-Hand Stress - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/367ae545-8885-4184-865f-53fe6c2a80b4/Track.jpg Blog - Standing against Second-Hand Stress - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/0cf1d863-66ed-437a-b847-38f78ee661ed/Shipping.jpg Blog - Standing against Second-Hand Stress - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/overcoming-self-limiting-beliefs monthly 0.5 2025-11-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1762118236672-2XBNXL5SXN3CP2JF39ZH/unsplash-image-2gVgVf5CNAE.jpg Blog - Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs - Make it stand out We have found that much of our suffering originates from an invisible source: limiting beliefs. These are deeply held assumptions about ourselves, others, and the world that silently drive our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Left unexamined, they trap us in unhappiness; seen clearly, they dissolve, leading to greater freedom and joy. What Are Limiting Beliefs? Think of life as a background program. Every experience is generated by a chain starting with a belief. Research confirms how beliefs shape our thoughts. Simply put: if you believe you're unworthy, you'll generate thoughts about your unworthiness. Thoughts are then a necessary precursor to emotion. Unworthy thoughts lead to feelings of unworthiness. Aaron Abke, author of The Three Beliefs of Ego, identifies three core limiting beliefs driving our most difficult emotions—sadness, anger, and fear: The belief in lack or incompleteness \ Sadness. The belief that outcomes will bring happiness \Anger. The belief that we have control \Fear. The Three Beliefs of Ego, as outlined in Aaron Abke's book, centers on the idea that much of human suffering stems from three core, unconscious beliefs that structure the ego. The three beliefs are: Lack: The feeling of "I am not enough" or that something essential is missing. This belief leads to feelings of inadequacy. Attachment: The tendency to cling to external things—like relationships, possessions, achievements, or identities—believing they will provide the wholeness that is supposedly missing due to the belief in lack. Since these external things are impermanent, attachment inevitably leads to pain upon loss. Control: The attempt to manage and resist life to protect attachments and soothe the sense of lack. This manifests as anxiety, frustration with the unexpected, and resistance to change. These three egoic beliefs give rise to the primary negative emotions—sadness (from lack), anger (from resistance/attachment), and fear (from lack/control)—which are the root causes of suffering. Abke proposes that seeing these beliefs clearly, rather than fighting the ego, is the path to healing, peace, and spiritual freedom. A key tool discussed is the Emotional Guidance System, which helps individuals recognize these ego patterns in real-time when negative emotions arise, allowing them to shift beyond the limiting beliefs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1762118455473-OYVLABMZMH8B0J1AU6M6/unsplash-image-yHL7WxJFvI8.jpg Blog - Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs - Make it stand out For instance, studies show that elevated anxiety correlates with higher-than-normal control beliefs (Millings & Carnelley, 2015). While these beliefs feel absolute, they’re just thoughts appearing true. They manifest as: A thought that we lack something we "should" have. A thought that a specific outcome will finally bring happiness. A thought that we can control uncontrollable situations or people. Learning to stop believing these untrue thoughts opens up our world. In fact, revising beliefs is the core mechanism in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (Kronemyer & Bystritsky, 2014), one of psychology's most reliable treatments. Listen to the Huberman Lab about managing your core beliefs: https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/you-belong monthly 0.5 2025-09-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/99cc313a-b3cd-4e22-85b4-a9c0af8051fb/Race.jpg Blog - You Belong - Make it stand out Research consistently demonstrates that a strong sense of belonging within a team, culture, or organization leads to increased performance, engagement, and well-being. However, the pandemic challenged our global sense of belonging as we've transitioned from in-person interactions to more virtual connections. With the cultural experience becoming more diffuse and subjective, how can we collectively cultivate a deeper sense of belonging in this increasingly digital age? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/3d25d1f2-6fd0-4a18-a2e0-757552d1549b/Mountains.png Blog - You Belong - Make it stand out Given his research focus on Western industrialized societies, Maslow's conception of belonging was necessarily limited by the historical and cultural context. Subsequent critiques have highlighted his emphasis on individual growth at the potential expense of communal needs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/e4fd73be-5cda-436e-8d83-5c999cfde881/Community+Hands.jpg Blog - You Belong - Make it stand out Isolated in the harshest conditions imaginable, Mandela maintained an unwavering connection to his community through shared purpose. With his fellow freedom fighters, he transformed personal suffering into collective strength, viewing their individual struggles as reflections of their people's broader plight. Together, they forged an indomitable sense of solidarity and belonging that endured the rigors of imprisonment. Mandela remained deeply rooted in his cultural traditions, drawing strength from his homeland and the ancestral wisdom imparted to him. These foundations sustained him through imprisonment, enabling him to emerge unbroken and spiritually replenished. His reflections on the plight of a child with HIV revealed that isolation and belonging are complex issues intertwined with broader societal structures, extending far beyond individual psychology. While Maslow framed belonging primarily in terms of personal relationships, Mandela's experiences illuminated the broader, more complex nature of isolation and belonging. His journey revealed that belonging is a fundamental human principle, encompassing far more than friendship, intimacy, or family. Eighty years since Maslow placed belonging at the heart of human motivation, its significance has only grown. While undeniably a fundamental human need, belonging is also a birthright, a defining characteristic for us. This profound insight, a cornerstone of our humanity, offers a powerful lens through which to address the complex challenges facing individuals, communities, and the world. Curiosity is wonder in action, propelling us to question the status quo and seek knowledge. It invites us to embrace new experiences, explore diverse perspectives, and deepen our connections with others. Best of all, curiosity is an innate human quality that simply needs awakening. Our brains are hardwired for survival, instinctively categorizing people as friends or foes. While this instinct helps protect us, it can also hinder connection. By embracing wonder and curiosity, we can overcome these biases and build more fulfilling relationships. Here are a few ways to ignite your curiosity and deepen connections: Embrace Unexpected Encounters: Turn ordinary moments into opportunities for connection. Strike up conversations with strangers—whether in a hallway, grocery store, or the classroom — and let curiosity be your guide. Ask with Wonder: Approach interactions with genuine curiosity. Whether connecting with a new acquaintance or a longtime friend, let wonder fuel your questions. Inquire about their most awe-inspiring experiences or dream careers. Share Your Passions: Identify what truly excites and inspires you. Explore opportunities to connect with others who share your passions. Join clubs, volunteer, or travel to share experiences that ignite wonder. By cultivating curiosity, you can build deeper, more authentic connections, enhance your well-being, and enrich your life. Find value in your daily interactions. You belong. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/wired-for-optimism monthly 0.5 2025-08-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1756079477287-IXITP81ZU0DJD0HKPP9E/unsplash-image-X9-k7sQN6Xs.jpg Blog - Wired for Optimism - Make it stand out Optimism is frequently highlighted as crucial for a fulfilling and successful life, evidenced by numerous accounts of individuals surmounting challenges through positive thinking. What inherent power does optimism possess? Is it possible to cultivate greater optimism, and if so, what are the neural implications? Additionally, are there potential drawbacks to excessive optimism? Optimism, defined as the general expectation that good things will unfold in the future, transcends a simple feel-good philosophy. Extensive research consistently reveals that an optimistic mindset is inextricably linked to a broad spectrum of positive life outcomes. Individuals who embrace a positive outlook not only enjoy better physical health but also experience greater success in their careers, cultivate stronger social connections, and even live longer lives. One of the most compelling advantages of optimism is its direct connection to improved physical health. Optimists are more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviors, such as consistent exercise and thoughtful dietary choices, which are fundamental to their overall well-being (Seligman, 1991). Beyond these lifestyle factors, optimism has been specifically tied to enhanced cardiovascular health and more robust immune systems. Consequently, optimistic individuals tend to be less susceptible to chronic diseases and demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of illness, often recovering with greater speed than their more pessimistic peers. Psychologically, optimism plays a pivotal role in effectively managing stress and sustaining mental health. Those with an optimistic perspective are uniquely equipped to navigate life's challenges. They possess an inherent ability to view setbacks as temporary and solvable obstacles, rather than insurmountable catastrophes. This perspective cultivates profound resilience, enabling optimists to rebound from adversity more swiftly and with significantly less emotional distress. Studies have consistently demonstrated that optimism correlates with lower rates of depression and anxiety, alongside higher levels of life satisfaction and greater overall happiness. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1756079716249-DD68X7WUW7XOO73QOTIJ/unsplash-image-vji12AJe4hQ.jpg Blog - Wired for Optimism - Make it stand out Ultimately, optimism stands out as a powerful predictor of success in both personal and professional realms. Optimists are more inclined to establish ambitious goals and, crucially, to persist in their pursuit, even when confronted with significant obstacles. Their unwavering positive outlook serves as a wellspring of motivation and focus, frequently leading to higher levels of achievement and deeper satisfaction in both their work and personal lives. Research consistently demonstrates a positive correlation between anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) activity and optimism. The ACC, known for its role in imagining future outcomes and processing self-relevant information, shows heightened activity, particularly in positive contexts. Interestingly, individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) exhibit lower ACC activation when estimating positive future events compared to healthy controls, suggesting the ACC's crucial role in regulating emotional responses to self-relevant, future-oriented information. This regulation appears to reinforce optimism by emphasizing positive possibilities. Furthermore, the ACC is involved in processing happiness, pleasure, and reward, responding more strongly to positive emotional states. This aligns with findings that optimistic individuals show enhanced ACC activation when anticipating favorable outcomes. Beyond the ACC, optimism has also been associated with activity in the inferior frontal gyrus (IFG). This brain region plays a vital role in how we process errors and update our beliefs. Interestingly, the IFG becomes more active when desirable information is processed, but less so when confronted with undesirable information. This suggests a potential bias in optimists: they might be more adept at accurately integrating positive news into their belief systems, but perhaps less precise when challenged with negative information (Aue & Okon-Singer, 2021). In addition, optimism seems to profoundly influence the brain's dopamine system, the very network responsible for feelings of pleasure and motivation. When individuals anticipate favorable outcomes, there's a release of dopamine, which naturally reinforces that optimistic mindset. This creates a powerful and self-sustaining feedback loop: optimistic thinking directly leads to positive emotional experiences, which in turn strengthens the neural pathways that underpin optimism itself. Listen to this reflection from Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast on the power of rewiring your brain for optimism while contesting against cynicism: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1756080735306-3EPTJVTUAWYH3HESANN3/unsplash-image-zYG9ppjZVgw.jpg Blog - Wired for Optimism - Make it stand out This doesn't mean we should abandon optimism entirely. Instead, the aim should be balanced optimism—a mindset that combines a hopeful outlook with a realistic understanding of the challenges and risks ahead. Balanced optimists are still motivated by their positive expectations, but they are also prepared for potential setbacks, which enables them to make more informed and adaptable decisions. Optimism truly has a remarkable ability to shape both our brains and our lives. It offers a wealth of benefits, from improved physical health to greater resilience and success. What makes optimism especially powerful is its adaptability—it's not just an innate trait; anyone can nurture a more positive mindset with intention and practice. On a neural level, optimism engages key brain regions, enhancing our capacity to process positive information and sustain motivation. Yet, it's important to recognize that unbridled optimism, particularly when it veers into unrealistic territory, can have its drawbacks. To truly harness the power of optimism, we must find a balance between positivity and pragmatism. By using optimism as a tool to stay motivated and focused while remaining prepared for life’s inevitable hurdles, we can cultivate a mindset that promotes growth without losing sight of current reality. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/purposeful-leisure monthly 0.5 2025-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/8c14787d-60af-49b8-a4f6-c83a84e6daf3/Beachside.jpg Blog - Purposeful Leisure - Make it stand out It's Monday morning again. You're sluggish, unmotivated, and already longing for the weekend. Like the vast majority of Americans, you likely spend your free time trying to recover, perhaps by binging shows, scrolling through social media, or catching up on sleep. Yet, when the new workweek arrives, that hoped-for feeling of being refreshed often remains elusive. This leads to a common question: Is passive rest truly the most effective way to recharge, or are there better strategies to feel more energized and motivated when a new Monday rolls around? While seemingly relaxing, activities like prolonged screen time or simply being sedentary may not adequately restore the mental and physical resources depleted by a demanding work week. Experts suggest that true recovery often involves more than just the absence of work. Engaging in alternative forms of rest and activities can play a crucial role in boosting energy levels and improving overall well-being, potentially offering a more effective antidote to that persistent Monday morning slump. The answer, research emphatically shows, is “yes.” For several years, there has been a study of “leisure crafting”—a proactive approach to free time that prioritizes goal-setting, human connection, learning, and personal development. Studies demonstrate that this method not only boosts well-being, mental health, and overall life satisfaction but also enhances work performance and protects against burnout—all without requiring more time than passive leisure. It’s simply a matter of shifting your focus. What exactly is leisure crafting? It's not about changing what you do in your downtime, but rather how you do it. It's about adding a layer of intention and a focus on personal growth to the activities you already enjoy. Think of it as structuring your leisure so that it helps you: work towards personal goals, connect with others, and learn something new or develop a skill. While these are general ideas, they can manifest in many different ways. As an example, if you love being active outdoors, you might set a goal to run a half marathon. To support this, you could run on your own a few times a week and also join a local running group for a weekly half-hour run in the park. This not only improves your running but also connects you with other runners and gets you outside. Similarly, if you're a movie buff, instead of just scrolling through streaming services, you might decide to watch one of the British Film Institute's 100 greatest films each week and share your thoughts in a short review on Letterboxd, engaging your critical thinking and connecting with other film enthusiasts. Or consider a fantasy football fan who decides to go beyond the usual by taking a negotiation workshop to get better at trades and learning about predictive modeling to make smarter decisions about their team. But is this more intentional approach really better than just kicking back and relaxing? Here’s what has been discovered. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1747424094949-Z7VNKTTF8UWJBTUS949K/unsplash-image-v41a6J4Zrs4.jpg Blog - Purposeful Leisure - Make it stand out To rigorously evaluate the impact of leisure crafting versus passive leisure and a non-intentional approach, a study was conducted within 11 field studies that involved over 2,400 working professionals. Participants detailed their leisure activities and the mindset they adopted during that time. They also completed assessments measuring their energy levels, moods, and overall well-being. The results were compelling. Individuals who engaged in leisure crafting reported significantly higher energy levels, more positive moods, and greater overall well-being compared to those primarily engaging in passive leisure. Additionally, leisure crafting correlates with stronger feelings of personal autonomy, competence, and social connection—all key drivers of well-being. Participants who approached their leisure with intention were also more likely to report a life that felt meaningful, engaging, and fulfilling. Beyond its positive impact on personal well-being, research revealed that a growth-oriented approach to leisure also cultivates significant work-related advantages. Across our studies, individuals who engaged in leisure crafting reported higher levels of work engagement, creativity, and performance. Notably, they also derived a greater sense of meaning from their work compared to those who did not actively craft their leisure time. Unlike unstructured or passive leisure, which often falls short in terms of restoration and personal growth, the inherent growth orientation of leisure crafting can generate positive spillover effects into any sphere, leading individuals to feel more invested in and perform better at school as well as their jobs. Consider these actionable steps: Identify activities that energize you. Often, work-life balance advice steers us toward specific "right" leisure activities like meditation, exercise, or structured hobbies. Research suggests that the power lies not in the activity itself, but in how you engage with it. Applying the right approach to your existing pastimes—whether it's gaming, cooking, or spending time with friends—can yield restorative benefits that positively influence your work. Forget about finding the "right" goals for the "right" activities. Instead, focus on setting achievable goals for activities you already love and that genuinely energize you. If television is your go-to, delve into what you value about it. Is it the social connection from discussing shows with others? How can you intentionally nurture this aspect? Maybe starting a monthly watch club with friends, where you explore new genres or critically acclaimed series together, can expand your interests while strengthening your social ties. Be specific. The key isn't the ambition of your goals, but your consistent effort towards them. Broad goals (for example, "I want to improve my baking skills") can be challenging to maintain. Focus on establishing tangible, trackable goals (like, "Each week, I will bake a new type of bread from the 'Bread Baker's Apprentice' cookbook"). Before you begin, take some time to structure your goal. Consider: What is a realistic time commitment for me? Do I prefer a larger goal (like learning a new language) broken down into smaller, actionable steps (like completing one Duolingo lesson daily)? Which days will I dedicate to this? What will signify "success" for me in this endeavor? While self-development in leisure might seem like it requires significant time investment, even minor, intentional changes (e.g., deciding to learn three new vocabulary words each day or actively contributing to an online community related to your hobby) can be effective. The crucial thing is to avoid making your leisure pursuits so rigorous that they contribute to overall burnout. Start with achievable goals that fit comfortably into your life. For more ideas, listen to this from How to Build a Happy Life on becoming purposeful with free time: https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/developing-mental-strength monthly 0.5 2025-05-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1746411258949-PTPNGL87TEWS7JNMOV9H/unsplash-image-j1LoSN1k8QU.jpg Blog - Developing Mental Strength - Make it stand out We tend to reserve "mentally strong" for those who overcome remarkable challenges. Yet, this often prevents us from recognizing the mental strength we ourselves display daily. Perhaps we're too focused on our flaws or dismiss our achievements as commonplace. But true mental strength isn't limited to grand narratives; it appears in countless everyday moments. Think about those mornings when you're exhausted but still push yourself to get dressed and on time for school and work. Or the times you bite your tongue after a frustrating traffic incident because your friend is present. These seemingly small acts are testaments to your mental strength. It's not just about resisting negative impulses. Have you ever truly accepted a compliment, letting it sink in instead of deflecting it? Or lingered in a loving gaze, even when feeling exposed? These moments of vulnerability also require significant mental strength. Anytime you consciously lean into your experience in service of a greater goal, you demonstrate mental strength. The more consistently you do this, the more you build your mental resilience and fortify your capacity for purposeful action. Developing mental strength is a subtle journey, not a simple task. It involves nurturing distinct qualities along the way. Four such qualities are particularly impactful, offering pathways to enhance not only your mental fortitude but also your overall well-being. Some of these qualities might already resonate with you, while others may feel entirely new. Consider the following list not as a judgment of your current abilities, but as invitations for personal development. With that in mind, here are identified attributes of mentally strong people. They embrace new possibilities. Mentally strong individuals transcend rigid thinking. They aren't confined by fixed ideas about how they should think, feel, or behave, who they should be, what deserves their focus, or what should garner their care. Instead of adhering to inflexible self-rules, they embrace openness, exercise greater freedom in their choices, and readily explore novel possibilities. They can simultaneously entertain contrasting ideas; they can persevere when instinct urges them to retreat; they can release their grip when their mind insists on holding on. These flexible patterns of thought and behavior allow them to engage with a wider spectrum of their experiences—both positive and negative—without the need for resistance or attachment. Now, observe your mind's reaction to this information. It's easy to fall into the trap of creating a new "must"—"I always have to be open to new possibilities"—which ironically becomes another self-imposed limitation. Rather than obeying this mental command, simply notice its presence in your awareness, allowing it to exist without succumbing to its demand. You can experiment with new possibilities without turning it into a rigid obligation. Ultimately, you retain the freedom to choose, repeatedly. They favor what works. Mentally strong individuals don't just consider new approaches; they are adept at choosing the ones that yield results. This seemingly simple trait encompasses several important abilities. Initially, it requires a firm grasp of your objectives—be they tangible goals or fundamental values. A clear direction is essential to even define what constitutes "success." Furthermore, it demands a level of self-awareness that allows for honest evaluation of whether your actions are genuinely leading you closer to your aims, rather than just offering a false sense of advancement. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/9c645d02-1143-4f51-b94a-1e1d418d4d23/Mental.jpg Blog - Developing Mental Strength - Make it stand out The medical community strongly encourages exploring the process of clarifying your objectives with trained professionals, as it's easy to lose touch with your deeper aspirations and values or to mistakenly believe you're progressing when you're not. If this isn't currently feasible, it is recommended to monitor your goals with the support of a trusted person and/or gain objective insights through tracking devices (such as smartphone apps). A dependable feedback mechanism is vital for making effective progress. They develop successful habits. Those familiar with self-help will likely anticipate what follows. While it might sound familiar, it's a fundamental truth: mental strength doesn't materialize randomly. It develops through the consistent repetition of actions that propel you toward your desired goals. The emphasis on "consistently" is crucial, as isolated attempts rarely yield significant, lasting results. It's the integration of successful actions into daily habits that generates the necessary momentum to transform your mental resilience and your life as a whole. You can reflect more here. Begin incrementally. Choose a new action—such as a daily jog—and then decompose it into its smallest possible component. Perhaps even smaller than feels necessary. Make it so easy that resistance becomes almost illogical. This could involve jogging for a mere sixty seconds before returning home. The initial priority isn't the final goal but rather the establishment of consistent behavior. Challenge yourself to a "10-day streak" where you perform this small action every day. Once you've established consistency, you can gradually increase the intensity or duration. You can view a summary of building Atomic Habits with James Clear: https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/chasing-happiness monthly 0.5 2025-04-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1743892063785-XGWUQILK69V8ODMZTB89/unsplash-image-8AjcouYfY30.jpg Blog - Chasing Happiness - Make it stand out Happiness isn't a destination to reach, but rather a continuous state of being. Tying happiness to external achievements will always leave you wanting more, as it's a subjective experience, not an objective goal. The "happiness difference" lies between the static nature of ownership and the dynamic fulfillment of experiences. Similarly, valuing possessions over sharing wealth creates a different kind of "happiness." True happiness isn't transactional, yet the American dream often equates it with material accumulation. Sadly, like a new car losing value the moment it's driven away, the joy derived from most objects quickly fades. When the American dream morphs into a nightmare of unaffordable aspirations, what truly cultivates happiness and satisfaction? It's often the time we invest in meaningful connections and the experiences we actively pursue. From exploring new places to sharing laughter with friends, losing ourselves in a book, playing with our children, engaging in heartfelt conversations, or simply enjoying a scenic drive with a loved one, these experiences touch us profoundly, enriching the value of our time, money, and energy. It is in these moving moments that we find true worth. The last fifty years have seen a surge in research dedicated to understanding happiness and subjective well-being, reflecting a universal desire to unlock the secret to joy. While a definitive formula will likely remain elusive, significant findings offer valuable guidance. Consider these five essential prerequisites for a happy life: - Strong relationships are fundamental to human well-being and happiness, a basic truth rooted in our innate drive for connection. While the pursuit of "true love" often dominates our thinking, fulfilling our need for happiness extends beyond romantic partnerships. Supportive friendships, characterized by encouragement and mutual support, contribute significantly to overall contentment. - Acts of kindness are also vital for personal happiness, as our brains are wired to reward altruistic behavior. Even the anticipation of doing something positive for others, whether organizing a celebration, volunteering, or planning a donation, can generate feelings of satisfaction and well-being. - Cultivating gratitude for the abundance in one's life, regardless of its scale, also fosters well-being. Conversely, focusing on scarcity breeds negative emotions like envy and discontent. - A sense of meaning and purpose in life's endeavors is crucial for lasting contentment. The belief in contributing to something larger than oneself fosters a profound sense of peace, integral to happiness. - Finally, prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices – encompassing sleep, nutrition, and exercise – significantly impacts happiness. Research highlights the effectiveness of regular physical activity, even simple walks, in mitigating depression. Contemplative practices like yoga, meditation, and reflection are proven stress reducers and well-being enhancers. Moreover, adequate sleep, often underestimated, is crucial for managing stress, reducing cardiovascular risks, and maintaining a healthy weight. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1743892610047-HFL6GSDSXLCXU3YA7VCQ/unsplash-image-5KxbOrjB4Ag.jpg Blog - Chasing Happiness - Make it stand out Perhaps our most pervasive misunderstanding is the notion that happiness is a fixed point to be reached or an item to be acquired. Though seemingly simple, the reality is that the unfolding of our lives and the tapestry of our experiences are what truly weave feelings of contentment and fulfillment. The World Happiness Report has yielded surprising conclusions, including the revelation that residing in a prosperous nation does not ensure a happy populace. Indeed, some countries with considerably fewer material resources than the US demonstrate higher levels of happiness. In societies where life's circumstances differ, the pursuit of happiness may not mirror our own acquisitive tendencies. Ultimately, a reliable support system and the presence of others appear to be the cornerstones of widespread happiness. The World Happiness Report identified these five factors as pivotal to happiness: Cultivating Compassion and Generosity: Prioritizing the well-being of others and sharing resources. The Power of Shared Meals: Building connection and happiness through communal dining. Combating Isolation Through Shared Living: Recognizing the detrimental effects of loneliness on health and fostering connection through shared homes. Embracing Altruism and Community Engagement: Actively participating in prosocial behaviors for mutual benefit. Fostering Social Connection (Especially for Young Adults): Emphasizing the critical importance of strong relationships, particularly during formative years. Genuine and lasting contentment, the kind that inspires true gratitude, stems not from material possessions but from experiences, with strong social support and engagement being the most crucial elements. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/understanding-and-practicing-validation monthly 0.5 2025-02-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1739850446802-AX2ILF16GE3JPSI1609M/unsplash-image-vU-WNVO5zBg.jpg Blog - Understanding and Practicing Validation - Make it stand out In any challenging situation, one of our options is acceptance. A key way we express acceptance, both to ourselves and others, is through validation. It's important to understand that validation isn't about agreement or approval. Even when a loved one makes a decision you disagree with, validation allows you to support them and strengthen your relationship. It communicates that the relationship is secure and valued, even amid differing opinions. Validation means acknowledging and accepting another person's thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behaviors as understandable. Similarly, self-validation involves recognizing and accepting your own thoughts, feelings, sensations, and behaviors as understandable. Mastering effective validation takes practice. Understanding the six levels of validation, as developed by Psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan, can be a valuable tool in this process. The first level of validation is simply being present. This can take many forms. It might be holding someone's hand during a painful medical procedure, truly listening—with your full attention and without distraction—as a child recounts their first-grade day, or going to a friend's house late at night just to sit with them as they cry during emotional distress. Conversely, multi-tasking while your friend talks about their soccer game is not being present. True presence means giving the person you're validating your undivided attention. Being present for yourself involves acknowledging your internal experience and sitting with it, rather than trying to escape, avoid, or suppress it. Sitting with intense emotions, even happiness or excitement, can be challenging. Often, people feel uncomfortable around strong emotions because they don't know what to say. But often, just being present—giving someone your complete, non-judgmental attention—is the most helpful thing you can do. Similarly, for yourself, mindfully acknowledging your own emotions is the crucial first step toward accepting them. Here is a reflection on validation skills adapted from Dr. Marsha Linehan: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1739851002609-1F3UWWC09UJ1CQZ8V7J6/unsplash-image-jLwVAUtLOAQ.jpg Blog - Understanding and Practicing Validation - Make it stand out Level four involves understanding a person's behavior in the context of their history and biology. Our experiences and biology shape our emotional reactions. For example, if your best friend was bitten by a dog a few years ago, it's understandable that she wouldn't enjoy being around your German Shepherd. Validating her at this level might involve saying, "Given what happened to you, I completely understand why you don't want to be around my dog." Self-validation also involves understanding your own reactions in the context of your past experiences. Level five is normalizing, or recognizing that the emotional reactions are ones that anyone might have. Understanding that your emotions are normal can be helpful for everyone. For someone who is emotionally sensitive, knowing that anyone would be upset in a specific situation can be particularly validating. For example, "Of course you're anxious. Speaking before an audience for the first time is scary for anyone." Level six is radical genuineness. This occurs when you deeply understand someone's emotion, perhaps because you've had a similar experience. Radical genuineness involves sharing that experience as equals, connecting on a human-to-human level. While understanding these levels may be relatively easy, putting them into practice is often more challenging. Consistent practice is key to making validation a natural part of your communication style. Consider this example: Your best friend is upset because her car recently got totaled. She feels as if her parents are treating her like a child and is so controlling that she feels suffocated. When you ask about their reasoning, she explains that she had gotten into an accident for the fourth time, knowing that many more expenses were incurred, and they were unable to pay the insurance bill. How do you validate her? Remember to aim for the highest possible level of validation. Think about your answer before reading on! Let's look at a couple of scenarios and how to apply validation. Scenario 1: Joanna and her diet Joanna calls, complaining about eating chocolate cake and other sweets, wanting more, but also not wanting to gain weight. While she doesn't explicitly mention feelings, it's likely her eating is emotionally driven. Level 3 validation (mindreading) would be a good starting point. You could say, "Something seems to be going on. I'm guessing you might be upset about something?" If she then reveals, for example, that her pet died yesterday, you could move to a Level 5 (normalizing) or even Level 6 (radical genuineness), depending on your own experience with pet loss. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1739851246462-99NA02K0YN5P7FOZM8MM/unsplash-image-OpB7gkQY9oc.jpg Blog - Understanding and Practicing Validation - Make it stand out Scenario 2: Shawna and the pool party Shawna, who had a bad experience with peers at the community pool as a middle school student, panicked when she was pushed into a pool, even though it was only waist-deep. She expresses shame and self-criticism, calling herself "crazy." Level 4 validation (understanding behavior in context) would be most effective here. You could say, "Given your history with the pool, it's completely understandable that you panicked when you were pushed into the water. Anyone with that experience would likely react similarly." Emotional invalidation occurs when a person's thoughts and feelings are rejected, ignored, or judged. This is emotionally upsetting for anyone, but it's especially painful for those who are emotionally sensitive. Invalidation damages relationships and creates emotional distance. Self-invalidation, in particular, leads to alienation from oneself and makes the process of building a strong identity extremely challenging. Both self-invalidation and invalidation from others can significantly hinder recovery from depression and anxiety. Many experts even believe that invalidation is a major contributing factor to emotional unhealth. While most people would deny intentionally invalidating another person's internal experience—and few would do so purposefully—even well-intentioned individuals can sometimes invalidate others, often because they are uncomfortable with intense emotions or mistakenly believe they are being helpful. Many people readily admit to self-invalidation, often arguing that they deserve it or that they aren't worthy of validation. They may be uncomfortable with their own humanity. However, it's important to remember that validation is not the same as self-acceptance; it's simply an acknowledgment that an internal experience has occurred. People who care about you can invalidate your feelings in many ways, often unintentionally. Here are some common reasons and examples: Misinterpreting closeness: Some assume that being close means knowing another person's feelings without asking. They may presume to know how you feel and even tell you what you're thinking, rather than asking and listening. Misunderstanding validation: Some confuse validation with agreement. They might think that validating your anger means condoning it, when in reality, you can acknowledge someone's feeling ("You're angry with your friend") without agreeing with their actions or opinions. Instead of validating, they might try to reassure you by saying, "You shouldn't think that way," which is invalidating. Wanting to "fix" feelings: Loved ones often don't want to see you hurt, so they might try to distract you from your feelings with offers of treats or activities ("Don't be sad. Want some ice cream?"). While well-intentioned, this can invalidate your emotions. Avoiding hurting feelings: Sometimes, people lie to avoid hurting your feelings. They might tell you that you look great in an outfit that isn't flattering or agree with your point of view in an argument when they don't actually agree. "Wanting what's best": Those who care about you may try to do things for you that you're capable of doing yourself, or encourage you to befriend someone influential, even if you don't genuinely like them, with comments like "You should be friends with her. She'll be a good friend to you." This can invalidate your own judgment and preferences. Here are some specific examples of invalidating behaviors: Blaming: Attacking someone's character or making sweeping generalizations ("You always have to be the crybaby...") is always invalidating. (This is different from taking responsibility for one's actions.) "Hoovering": This refers to attempts to "vacuum up" any feelings that make someone uncomfortable, or giving dishonest answers to avoid upsetting someone or being vulnerable. Saying "It's not a big deal" when it is important to you, or falsely praising someone's performance, or not acknowledging the difficulty of a task, or over-committing when overwhelmed, are all examples of hoovering. Judging: Dismissive comments like "You're overreacting" or "That's a ridiculous thought" are invalidating. Ridicule is particularly damaging ("Here we go again, cry over nothing..."). Denying: Telling someone they don't feel what they say they feel ("You're not angry...") is a direct form of invalidation. Minimizing: While often well-intentioned, minimizing someone's feelings ("Don't worry, it's nothing...") sends the message that their emotions are not important or valid. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1739851623032-JQ7D9VEL78EC6WX6USK5/unsplash-image-0gkw_9fy0eQ.jpg Blog - Understanding and Practicing Validation - Make it stand out Nonverbal invalidation can be just as powerful as verbal, and often conveys a dismissive message. This can include eye-rolling, impatient finger-drumming, or checking your watch while someone is speaking. Even if unintentional, actions like attending an important event but then ignoring those around you to focus on your phone send a strong message of invalidation. Nonverbal self-invalidation can manifest as overworking, excessive shopping, or any behavior that distracts you from tuning into your own feelings, thoughts, needs, and wants. The most effective way to stop invalidating others or yourself is to consciously practice validation. Remember, validation doesn't require lying or agreeing. It's about accepting someone's internal experience as valid and understandable, which can be incredibly powerful. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/navigating-hurry-sickness monthly 0.5 2025-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1737336912485-89CT3YFH8DYZMYAW04QS/unsplash-image-ZlZZLjuibeQ.jpg Blog - Navigating Hurry Sickness - Make it stand out In today's fast-paced world, the relentless pressure to do more, achieve more, and be more in less time is taking a significant toll on us at the turn of a quarter century. Do you often feel rushed in your daily life? For example, do you frequently experience the following: A sense of urgency and pressure to constantly be doing something? Difficulty completing tasks without feeling hurried? A tendency to rush through activities such as eating, driving, or conversations? A feeling of being overwhelmed by the number of things you need to do? A persistently rushed lifestyle can significantly increase stress and anxiety. This stems from the underlying belief that time is a finite resource that must be maximized, leading us to prioritize efficiency above all else. However, this relentless pursuit of productivity often comes at a steep cost. We frequently overcommit ourselves, taking on more responsibilities than we realistically have time for. This constant pressure to meet deadlines and fulfill obligations can leave us feeling overwhelmed, depleted, and ultimately, unhappy. One example of a recent study on professional service firms found that the majority of respondents described their personal and work lives as "highly demanding, exhausting, and chaotic," and also accepted as a given "that working and trying to be productive with long hours was necessary for their personal and professional success." These findings are further supported by a recent global workforce survey of over 56,000 employees, where 45% reported a significant increase in their workload over the past 12 months and more than half felt there was too much change at their workplace happening too quickly. This relentless urgency can fuel "hurry sickness," a term coined in 1974 by cardiologists Meyer Friedman and R.H. Rosenman to describe the detrimental effects of Type A (i.e., high-achieving) behavior on cardiovascular health. While not a formal diagnosis, hurry sickness encompasses a constellation of behaviors and emotions, including impatience, chronic rushing, and a pervasive sense of time scarcity, that can significantly impact both physical and mental well-being. While we bear significant responsibility for addressing many of the root causes of hurry sickness, such as hustle culture, incentives for overwork, and constant organizational change, people can also take proactive steps to mitigate its impact even in challenging learning and work-related environments. We will explore the profound consequences of hurry sickness and outline several strategies to reclaim your time and peace of mind. Anxiety and chronic stress stemming from a frantic, always-on lifestyle and the pervasive belief of time scarcity can lead to a cascade of negative health consequences, including high blood pressure, headaches, and insomnia. High blood pressure and symptoms of anxiety and depression (collectively referred to as psychological distress) are well-established risk factors for cardiovascular disease and even premature mortality. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1737337120306-PRH8OQOAMXYXRWHHILMO/unsplash-image-HF9WtHWy9cM.jpg Blog - Navigating Hurry Sickness - Make it stand out A large meta-analysis found that psychological distress itself significantly increased the risk of mortality from all causes, with the risk of death increasing proportionally to the severity of psychological distress. This association remained robust even after controlling for factors such as age, body mass index, smoking, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Hurry sickness can leave you physically and mentally drained as you constantly rush from one task to another, neglecting essential self-care practices such as regular, healthy meals, adequate sleep, and taking breaks. This chronic exhaustion can suppress your immune system, making you more susceptible to infectious diseases. Both in the workplace and the everyday learning environment, hurry sickness can lead to poor decision-making and suboptimal outcomes due to inadequate deliberation and increased risk of careless errors. When under the grip of hurry sickness, individuals experience diminished cognitive function, struggling to absorb, process, and effectively use new information. Creativity, often requiring a degree of incubation, can also be stifled by the pressure to rush. Additionally, hurried individuals may become easily irritated by colleagues who fail to match their frenetic pace, leading to skepticism about their competence and fostering interpersonal friction. These strained relationships negatively impact team dynamics, hindering effective collaboration and ultimately diminishing overall team output. When chronic workplace stress, fueled by hurry sickness, leads to exhaustion, negativity, and underperformance, the inevitable consequence can be full-blown burnout. One of the most insidious aspects of hurry sickness is its deceptive nature. It often masquerades as efficiency, productivity, achievement, or even creating value for the organization. Since these are highly valued qualities, it can be difficult to recognize the underlying harm. You may not even realize something is amiss until the relentless pursuit of speed begins to take its toll. Now, consider whether you recognize any of the following signs and symptoms of hurry sickness in your own everyday experience: Signs and Symptoms of Hurry Sickness: A Constant Sense of Urgency: You frequently experience restlessness, anxiety, or worry, feeling compelled to address every task immediately and complete it as swiftly as possible. Chronic Rushing: You consistently move, speak, and act with excessive speed, often interrupting others or hurrying them along. Multitasking becomes a compulsive behavior in an attempt to maximize output. Obsession with Time: You feel a constant pressure to "beat the clock," perceiving time as a scarce and slipping resource. You're always searching for shortcuts and methods to save time. A Perpetual Feeling of Being Behind: Despite your efforts, you constantly worry about falling behind, even when deadlines are distant and others perceive you as highly productive. Low Tolerance for Delays: Minor delays trigger significant stress and frustration, leading to irritability and even anger. Neglect of Self-Care: You prioritize productivity and efficiency above all else, sacrificing sleep, meals, exercise, social connections, and personal hobbies to maximize output. Intolerance for Downtime: You view slowing down or taking breaks as unproductive and inefficient. Idle time often leads to anxiety, irritability, and restlessness. Pleasure Derived from Productivity: Completing tasks provides a significant source of reward and satisfaction, potentially driven by the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1737337334796-844V0S3XV6TLBQSN4UWS/unsplash-image-zdkk3tcSBVs.jpg Blog - Navigating Hurry Sickness - Make it stand out In today's American landscape, individuals are largely responsible for establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries. Oftentimes these lines are blurred between work and life responsibilities. This challenge is typically amplified in environments that prioritize rapid results and excessive workloads. As psychologists Drs. Meyer and Rosenman observed, certain personality traits can increase vulnerability to hurry sickness. Beyond the Type A personality, perfectionists, people-pleasers, and those who equate self-worth with productivity are particularly susceptible. Perfectionists often invest an inordinate amount of time in tasks, striving for an unattainable ideal. This meticulousness diverts time from other crucial responsibilities, leaving them perpetually playing catch-up. People-pleasers, eager to accommodate every request, risk becoming overwhelmed and perpetually behind schedule. Finally, individuals who define their self-worth by their output and speed are inherently at risk, constantly driven to achieve more in less time. Despite the potential for significant harm, the remedies for hurry sickness are readily available. Consider these strategies to begin slowing down and reclaiming your well-being without compromising performance: Implement Forcing Functions: A forcing function is any mechanism that compels a desired outcome or behavior. To combat hurry sickness, aim to reduce your perception of time scarcity and urgency. Effective strategies include: Scheduling buffer time in your calendar to address unexpected tasks. Designating specific time frames for deep, focused work without predefined goals. Regularly reviewing and reprioritizing your to-do list to avoid approaching every task with the same sense of urgency. Pause Before Saying Yes: Before accepting any request, carefully examine your calendar to assess feasibility and reflect on the appropriateness of the request. Consider these questions: Are you the only person who can fulfill this request? Will it demand excessive time, energy, or resources? Does it align with your personal and professional goals? Since the tendency to rush can make it difficult to pause and reflect, consider enlisting the help of a trusted advisor to provide objective feedback. Confront the Consequences of "Yes": Before agreeing to any request, take the time to write down the potential consequences. This deliberate action can help you slow down and avoid impulsive commitments. Consider writing the request out to encourage deeper reflection. Ask yourself: Is the associated stress level tolerable? Will this request significantly impact my time outside of work or my ability to recharge? Seeing the potential consequences explicitly can be a powerful deterrent. Embrace the Benefits of Slowing Down: To further motivate yourself, create a list of the positive outcomes of slowing down. These might include increased sleep, stronger relationships, greater relaxation, and a greater sense of peace. Prioritize Effectively: Hurry sickness can distort our perception of priorities, making everything seem urgent. Utilize prioritization methods like the 4D method: Do: Essential and high-priority tasks. Defer/Delay: Tasks that can be addressed later. Delegate: Tasks that can be assigned to others. Delete: Tasks that are ultimately unnecessary. Avoid adding new tasks to your list until you've completed at least one existing task. Prioritize Grace Over Accomplishment: Recognize that constant striving for achievement can lead to self-induced stress and burnout. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your accomplishments and avoiding self-criticism. Consider the "friend test": Would you say these things to a friend? If not, let go of the negative self-talk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1737337583669-TH6R2ZYAPT7K7ZHCNEB0/unsplash-image-HynlII1AOkw.jpg Blog - Navigating Hurry Sickness - Make it stand out Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves slowing down and fully engaging with the present moment without judgment. This approach directly counteracts the core principles of hurry sickness. Even brief periods of mindfulness practice, such as deep breathing, body scans, mindful tea preparation, or simply listening to calming music, can significantly reduce stress and provide a much-needed mental break. Consistent mindfulness practice can help diminish the fixation on speed and cultivate a more balanced and focused life. Seek Support: If personal efforts to manage hurry sickness prove challenging, consider seeking professional assistance. An peer partner, executive coach, community resource group, or support group can provide valuable guidance and support. Accountability partners can also help you maintain healthy habits that promote a slower pace of life. In today's hyper-connected and fast-paced world, hurry sickness poses a significant threat to productivity, relationships, and overall well-being. It subtly undermines our effectiveness and creates a constant state of stress. By prioritizing slowing down and cultivating a more mindful approach to work and life, individuals can improve their overall well-being and enhance their performance. Remember, true success lies not in speed, but in the effective use of available time. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/developing-courage monthly 0.5 2025-01-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735613526180-XKR544W785J36W8HSZDR/unsplash-image-xHnb8UeZnmg.jpg Blog - Developing Courage - Make it stand out Courage, contrary to popular belief, isn’t the absence of fear but rather the ability to act despite it. This notion seems lost in our culture, which often glorifies fearlessness, as evidenced by the countless books titled ‘Fearless’ available online. If you’re prone to fear, you might mistakenly assume you’re lacking courage. However, research by Cynthia Pury and Charles Starkeyon Carnegie Medal recipients found that even the most heroic acts are often accompanied by fear. Similarly, psychologist Avril Thorne discovered that audiences prefer stories of bravery and compassion over those that dwell on fear and sadness. Yet, we all experience fear, and we know how debilitating it can be. Recognizing that courage lies in facing our fears and taking action is a crucial step toward understanding and embracing our own nobility. Courage is a skill, like a muscle, that can be strengthened through practice. Few of us are born fearless, so it’s unrealistic to expect to become courageous without intentional effort. As Brené Brown eloquently states in The Gifts of Imperfection, “Courage is…a habit, a virtue: You get it by courageous acts. It’s like you learn to swim by swimming. You learn courage by couraging.” Develop the habit of expressing your genuine opinions, even on minor matters. Practice speaking your mind politely but firmly. Pay attention to the moments when you do something that scares you, despite your body’s protests. You’ll soon realize that you do this more often than you think. This is especially true for shy individuals who must frequently confront their fears in everyday life. As Charles Darwin observed, ‘A shy man no doubt dreads the notice of strangers, but can hardly be said to be afraid of them. He may be as bold as a hero in battle, and yet have no self-confidence about trifles in the presence of strangers.’ When standing up for something or someone, focus on the cause or individual you’re advocating for. It’s often easier to be courageous for others than for yourself. A prime example is John Burford, a Princeton graduate who exposed the dangerous hazing practices of his fraternity in a letter to the school newspaper. This was a courageous act, especially considering the social repercussions. Burford explained his decision by stating, “Ultimately, what I wasn’t OK with was the possibility of being remembered…as ‘that guy who knew what fraternities at Princeton did, and could have spoken up, and then somebody died because of his own cowardice.” Find strength in numbers. It’s significantly easier to act courageously when you have someone else by your side who shares your beliefs. Dissent can be daunting when you’re alone. While you may occasionally need to go it alone, it’s often unnecessary. Learn to focus on positive feedback and minimize negative reactions. Many of us have a ‘negativity bias’ that leads us to prioritize disapproval over positive reinforcement. Be mindful of this tendency and intentionally direct your attention toward positive stimuli. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735613708510-H9OR4FNB21DUVCORO1KC/unsplash-image-MJNbBLx9W5U.jpg Blog - Developing Courage - Make it stand out Seek inspiration from quietly courageous individuals. Believe in the power of role models to guide us toward our goals. When you’re pushing your limits, it’s natural to doubt your capabilities. A role model serves as a constant reminder that it’s possible. Channel their example until it feels natural to embody your own authentic self. If you can’t think of a specific role model, consider Miep Gies, the ordinary woman who sheltered Anne Frank for two years. Gies humbly stated, ‘I don’t want to be considered a hero. Imagine if young people grew up with the feeling that you have to be a hero to do your human duty. I am afraid nobody would ever help other people, because who is a hero? I was not. I was just an ordinary housewife and secretary.’ It was precisely Gies’ ordinariness that made her courage so remarkable and attainable for us all. Courage is a universally admired trait, a hallmark of good character that earns respect. From biblical narratives to fairy tales, ancient myths to Hollywood blockbusters, our culture is brimming with tales of bravery and self-sacrifice. From the Cowardly Lion’s transformation in The Wizard of Oz to David’s victory over Goliath and the heroic quests of Star Wars and Harry Potter, children are nurtured on a diet of inspirational stories. However, courage isn’t solely about physical bravery. History books chronicle the social activists, like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, who risked their lives to fight for justice. Entrepreneurs such as Steve Jobs and Walt Disney exemplify the rewards and recognition that courage can bring, as they took financial risks to pursue their dreams and innovate. Courage comes in various forms, encompassing physical strength and endurance, as well as mental stamina and innovation. For this exercise, you’ll need a notebook and pen, along with a quiet, undisturbed space for reflection. Starting with the first definition of courage—’feeling afraid yet choosing to act’—answer the following questions: Recall a more recent situation where you felt fear but chose to act. What were your thoughts, feelings, and observations at the time? (e.g., “I saw the rollercoaster and felt butterflies in my stomach”) How did you or others support you in facing your fear? (e.g., “I told myself that if little kids could go on it, so could I”) When did your fear start to subside? How did you feel afterward? Reflect on a childhood experience where you faced fear. How was it similar or different to the current older/adult situation? Identify a current fear or anxiety What are you most afraid of? (e.g., being ridiculed if I ask for an extension). How can you apply the skills from the previous situations to be more courageous now? Remember your past successes. What mental or environmental obstacles are preventing you from using these skills? How can you overcome them? Repeat this exercise throughout the week, using each definition of courage provided. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/navigating-mental-exhaustion monthly 0.5 2024-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735612314506-YCACNREWOV61795LY0L4/unsplash-image-c0XZeTJhMlI.jpg Blog - Navigating Mental Exhaustion - Make it stand out If you work a physically demanding job involving heavy lifting, your employer is likely bound by legal guidelines to ensure your safety. These regulations often address factors such as your work environment, the weight limits you can handle, and the pace of your work, including mandatory breaks. However, when it comes to mentally demanding circumstances, the rules are less clear-cut. Since the brain doesn’t visibly strain like muscles, we often underestimate the impact of cognitive fatigue. We may overlook the need for rest, pushing ourselves to meet deadlines or finish late-night calls, even when our mental capacity is waning. Recent advancements in brain imaging have allowed us to observe mental fatigue in real time. These studies reveal that the brain, much like our physical muscles, experiences fatigue from sustained effort. As it tires, it becomes less efficient, affecting our cognitive abilities. The longer we work without rest, the more challenging tasks become, and the harder it is to maintain focus. These same imaging techniques have also shed light on the underlying causes of mental fatigue and, more importantly, the strategies we can employ to mitigate its effects. Mental exhaustion and fatigue occurs when the brain senses an impending depletion of its resources if it continues to operate at the same intensity. One possible mechanism involves brain cells consuming resources faster than they can be replenished. As a result, the brain may attempt to conserve energy by disengaging attention. This can manifest as mind wandering or a preference for less demanding tasks and easier decisions. Any mentally demanding activity can contribute to mental fatigue, but the rate at which it develops depends on the specific nature of the work. Factors that can accelerate mental fatigue include: Mental heavy lifting: Complex problem-solving, acquiring new skills, or making high-stakes decisions. Impulse resistance: Consistently resisting distractions. Sustained Focus: Tasks demanding prolonged concentration without interruption. If you find yourself getting mentally fatigued often, here are three core strategies that can help you delay or reduce mental fatigue during the day so you’re more productive. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735612484562-PKB92B4UGSJ94QFP5HF8/unsplash-image-7tXA8xwe4W4.jpg Blog - Navigating Mental Exhaustion - Make it stand out Take breaks frequently. There is power in breaks and regularly giving your brain time to rest is crucial. As mental fatigue sets in, signals travel across the brain along increasingly inefficient routes. Interrupting your work with regular breaks is the most effective way to minimize mental fatigue and restore efficiency by releasing the load on your mental resources. So, when should you take a break? The more intense the mental work, the sooner fatigue sets in. In high-pressure situations, such as fixing an error just before a launch or managing a crisis, frequent, short breaks — like “coming up for air” — are critical. Pausing for as little as five seconds every two minutes can improve performance significantly. For general mental heavy-lifting, such as decision-making or preparing a presentation, aim for a break every 20 minutes. For tasks that require deep concentration, like reading a report or analyzing a lot of data, performance starts to decline after 60-100 minutes. Here, your breaks should ideally be no more than 90 minutes apart. Short breaks — under 10 minutes — are best if you need to maintain momentum. For more mentally taxing work, longer breaks (over 10 minutes) will help preserve stamina. However, taking a break doesn’t mean engaging in another mentally taxing activity. For true recovery, avoid work-related tasks. Active relaxation, such as stretching, yoga, or a short walk, can be more rejuvenating than passive rest. Even a brief 10-minute walk around the block can reset your mental energy by shifting your focus away from work and towards the external world. If feasible, a 15-minute nap in the early afternoon can significantly improve cognitive performance for up to two hours afterward. Avoid overloading your day with high-effort tasks. If your work involves mentally demanding activities like rapid learning or real-time troubleshooting, limit them to no more than four hours per day. Exceeding this threshold can lead to persistent mental fatigue that hinders recovery. Structure your workday. To manage your workload effectively, consider structuring your day in 90-minute blocks. Intersperse intense tasks, such as data analysis or completing learning modules, with easier activities like email, report reading, or time sheet filling. This approach helps maintain focus and prevents burnout. Leveraging motivation to power through. When other strategies fail, rewards can be a powerful tool to sustain mental effort and maintain performance, even in the face of fatigue. By making the effort seem worthwhile, we can summon additional mental energy. A simple way to do this is by creating incentives. For example, scheduling a reward at the end of a long day, such as watching a movie or catching up with a friend, can provide motivation. Similarly, anticipating a weekend break after a major deadline can help you persevere. While these rewards won’t eliminate fatigue, they can help maintain performance by encouraging your brain to exert extra effort. Remember, mental fatigue is often invisible, leading us to underestimate its impact until it begins to affect our performance or well-being. By recognizing mental fatigue as a potential occupational hazard and proactively implementing preventive measures, we can effectively navigate the demands of knowledge work and harness its potential. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/establishing-your-drive monthly 0.5 2025-04-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7797b921-8294-4d00-8b6b-82e80ca08340/Drive.jpg Blog - Establishing Your Drive - Make it stand out Our community recognizes the significance of building a personal drive. This internal compass, rooted in motivations, values, and passions, guides individuals toward a more purposeful and fulfilling life. Being driven provides a sense of direction, fosters resilience, and assists in navigating life's challenges. Self-motivation is the root of this internal drive that fuels our actions. It's what prompts us to start, continue, or stop doing something altogether. Whether it's seeking food, pursuing a career path, identifying post-secondary aspirations, or even starting a relationship, our self-motivation plays a central role in shaping our behaviors. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/96817955-9c09-4b93-9bbe-ee661a1311ee/Belonging.jpg Blog - Establishing Your Drive - Make it stand out These are all strategies that compound Sinek’s reflective work on establishing and building your personal drive. Open your mind and bring yourself to thoughtful consideration with each of these. Set goals as a key component in finding your drive. Once you've identified your values, setting goals is essential. These goals should be challenging yet achievable, aligning with your values and contributing to your overall purpose. For instance, if building stronger relationships is important to you, set specific goals like spending quality time with family or joining a community group. Read more here. Socialize your goals. Research shows that connecting with others can significantly boost motivation. If you're struggling to stay committed to a goal, find ways to make it a social activity. Whether it's joining a group, partnering with a friend, or sharing your progress online, the support and camaraderie can make a big difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7f993643-f5bc-4416-9546-698be6c1941a/Mugs.jpg Blog - Establishing Your Drive - Make it stand out Develop self-compassion. The journey to finding your drive may involve setbacks and self-doubt. Practicing self-compassion can help you navigate these challenges and foster personal growth. Additionally, seeking motivation through activities you enjoy, surrounding yourself with inspiring individuals, and exploring new experiences can fuel your journey. Read more here. Use your drive as a compass. Once you've discovered your drive, use it as a guiding force in your life. During times of doubt, remember your "why" and let it steer you toward a more meaningful path. By consistently aligning your actions with your drive, you can live a more authentic and fulfilling life without pretense. Leverage your strengths. Feeling competent in what you do is a powerful motivator. Find tasks that challenge you without overwhelming you. When you're in your sweet spot—not too easy, not too hard—you'll be more engaged and motivated. Harness your instincts: We're naturally driven to acquire things that make us better off and to protect what we value. Tap into these instincts to fuel your motivation. Consider how your actions can help you gain what you need and defend what you hold dear. Pursue the power of habits: Building habits can make self-motivation easier toward a strong personal drive. Start small and gradually increase the difficulty. For example, if you want to start running long distances, begin with a few steps and gradually increase your distance. Read more here. Plan ahead: Create backup plans for your goals. If-then statements can help. For example, 'If I finish this report early, then I'll go for a walk.' This helps you stay on track and adjust to unexpected challenges. Read more here. Remember that finding your drive is an ongoing process. It requires continuous reflection, self-discovery, and a willingness to adapt as your values and circumstances evolve. By embracing this journey, you can unlock a fuller potential and live a life that is truly meaningful. - Beth Struna, School Psychologist https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/managing-time-effectively monthly 0.5 2024-12-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735610994573-3SFA7BO289Z37K1NQ22O/unsplash-image-dhZtNlvNE8M.jpg Blog - Managing Time Effectively - Make it stand out Do you feel as though you don’t have enough time to get everything done? It’s natural to think, “If I just had a little more time, or had less to do, or could get caught up, it wouldn’t be a problem.” Because time is the one “thing” that everyone has the same amount of, regardless of wealth or status, what varies is how much is expected (or demanded) from each of us during a designated span of time. Because time itself cannot be managed, it comes down to what you do in that designated span of time, and this is where psychology comes into play. A suite of psychological phenomena work in concert to undermine our sense of accomplishment and satisfaction with our time management. Consider the vast array of tasks you could potentially accomplish within a given timeframe. You probably have a long to-do list, including urgent, soon-to-be-urgent, and future tasks. Which do you prioritize? It’s common to start with smaller, easier tasks. This tendency, known as task completion bias, is driven by the desire to reduce psychological discomfort and experience the satisfaction and neurotransmitter rewards associated with completing tasks. It’s like scratching a lottery ticket and winning a small prize—it won’t change your life, but it provides a momentary pleasure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1735611227750-M2TDZBZU1HGYAD27UPZ1/unsplash-image-r-EecLdRRww.jpg Blog - Managing Time Effectively - Make it stand out Start each day by identifying your most important tasks. Ask yourself, “If I could only work on one thing today, what should it be?” Define “important” in terms of personal meaning, professional significance, stress reduction, or long-lasting impact. Break down larger tasks into smaller, achievable steps. Instead of planning to “work on X,” set specific goals that you can mark as completed. This leverages task completion bias to your advantage and provides opportunities for self-reward. Avoid multitasking and distractions. Schedule dedicated time for deep work and create a distraction-free environment. This might involve closing your door, wearing headphones, or setting auto-replies. Combat the planning fallacy. Estimate the time available for your tasks and the time required to complete them. Reduce your time estimates and increase your task duration estimates. Track your actual experience to refine your predictions. Consider using a coworker as a reference point to avoid personal biases. Anticipate interruptions and delays. Develop behavioral responses, known as implementation intentions, to address these challenges. For example, “If a coworker interrupts me, I will explain and reschedule our conversation.” Or, “While working on X, I will turn off notifications and avoid checking messages.” Time management is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s an ongoing process that requires self-awareness and experimentation. The psychological phenomena and strategies discussed here can provide a valuable starting point for your professional development. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/cultivating-rest monthly 0.5 2024-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/ca243c4b-4480-4a15-82f5-a0d51b09bfde/Rest.jpg Blog - Cultivating Rest - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/5bc73a0b-472f-40af-95bd-6385e5a2e930/Screens.jpg Blog - Cultivating Rest - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/ba3a8c6c-ddc6-41a8-9938-30c6707472b6/Stairwell.jpg Blog - Cultivating Rest - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/building-an-authentic-identity monthly 0.5 2024-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/3c065fbd-afce-41e8-ab3d-266678afd31b/Hello.jpg Blog - Building An Authentic Identity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/6c999680-4598-4009-9061-abc6951845e3/Lying+down.jpg Blog - Building An Authentic Identity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/d5287526-1029-4cf3-ba46-ad77e0da08cf/Phone.jpg Blog - Building An Authentic Identity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/the-pursuit-of-happiness monthly 0.5 2024-04-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1710428496113-64NJDFX9QM5XJ1AS8G54/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pursuit of Happiness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1710428681503-Q6H4MMFDVZT7BGBPWIBY/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pursuit of Happiness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1710429440262-1PFPY4XEIHZ3KWYXNT30/image-asset.jpeg Blog - The Pursuit of Happiness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/understanding-boundaries monthly 0.5 2024-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1707345213821-80J3TVBQHAUL4FKKG89P/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Understanding Boundaries - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1707352767648-7713REPCMM852GSSEAIT/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Understanding Boundaries - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1707353175397-XJ8V3RM5W5I547NAL8D1/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Understanding Boundaries - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/83f96587-8be5-4150-8464-687da7d28fee/Boundaries.png Blog - Understanding Boundaries https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/feed-forward monthly 0.5 2024-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/f392020b-3c4c-41e5-a756-b36b1e011591/Feed+Forward.jpg Blog - Feed Forward - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/07476800-67b1-41d0-8673-5befc40ba440/typewriter+2.jpg Blog - Feed Forward - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/4e923ebd-95e8-4fd7-bc16-5ebce952bc03/Latops.jpg Blog - Feed Forward - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/practicing-mindfulness monthly 0.5 2024-02-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1701044063106-3EJ9U1IQEZ1R37OLKY0V/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Practicing Mindfulness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1701045325258-34RWZOUKV95SO0LNCTX6/image-asset.jpeg Blog - Practicing Mindfulness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/386af62f-4aaa-4166-a3cf-9589e43a57a7/Sailboat+repair.jpg Blog - Practicing Mindfulness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/performance-anxiety-managing-high-expectations monthly 0.5 2023-10-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/22c719ca-25c7-4b4e-aa04-4c0f4a33dab5/Nov22_03_613049156.jpg Blog - Performance Anxiety: Managing High Expectations - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/3e91779a-9b45-43dd-8973-a351a2cb1dd3/milk+glass.jpg Blog - Performance Anxiety: Managing High Expectations - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/768d829f-eb3d-4ca6-86dd-06b736d616b5/Track.jpg Blog - Performance Anxiety: Managing High Expectations - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/scaling-habits monthly 0.5 2023-09-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/68c7c8ff-d78e-472b-a570-2f0c7da060ce/Scaling.jpg Blog - Scaling Habits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/6aee6e96-ca51-4194-917b-6a9ffb6b0443/Finish+line.jpg Blog - Scaling Habits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/abf017d7-ca3e-4db9-a63b-bd22ceb5604a/habits.jpg Blog - Scaling Habits - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/sleep-hygiene monthly 0.5 2023-09-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/248125d9-47f2-42cb-9c51-8c6eef20146a/Sleep.jpg Blog - Sleep Hygiene - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/5d90c811-7ad5-4306-b238-51959a4de593/Laptop.gif Blog - Sleep Hygiene - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/615fa191-4f7e-43fd-9439-2d5b91582fdc/Coffee+Spill.jpg Blog - Sleep Hygiene - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/establishing-a-relational-culture-of-trustnbsp monthly 0.5 2023-08-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/11964057-d03b-4b0e-ad2f-f567e46b9dbb/Aug23_11_1501196010.jpg Blog - Establishing a Relational Culture of Trust  - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/d0ccc1b1-0074-469e-9c61-2fe84f676f4e/Apr23_20_1154028355.jpg Blog - Establishing a Relational Culture of Trust  - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/24375d5d-00e1-4bf6-9206-1dc75249cfe2/jun16-28-138090873.jpg Blog - Establishing a Relational Culture of Trust  - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/maneuvering-through-change monthly 0.5 2023-05-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/eaecb598-af5c-4633-87aa-01faea2f59e0/Color+Splash.jpg Blog - Maneuvering Through Change - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/20352c78-603a-44ec-a4bd-d8b815d92780/Diversity.jpg Blog - Maneuvering Through Change - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/fervently-pursuing-joy monthly 0.5 2023-04-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/04b966fe-f21e-439b-9b73-c7551c21193d/Joy+Jumping.png Blog - Fervently Pursuing Joy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1681832404300-2KG4HKP1F1VJRUYP0VKO/unsplash-image-rL6sOvctpo4.jpg Blog - Fervently Pursuing Joy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1681832839955-OZUY8BO91DCW6N29GQCH/unsplash-image-yiZ5yaKcyG0.jpg Blog - Fervently Pursuing Joy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/filled-with-awe monthly 0.5 2023-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/5a5ae6f4-dd5b-4eb5-a1d0-9899a892e4c8/Glass+Flowers.jpg Blog - Filled With Awe - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/80c5c643-317d-4db3-ae76-370ae04a0b7d/Flowers.jpg Blog - Filled With Awe - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/picture-perfect monthly 0.5 2023-02-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/5d8a5c0b-f8df-44a9-b098-171ee4fd5f14/Perfect+Pencil.jpg Blog - Picture Perfect? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/dd8e6e63-912f-4db4-8a74-1c7e7f0c174b/Typewriter.jpg Blog - Picture Perfect? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/active-empathic-listening monthly 0.5 2022-12-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/4484379a-5ec5-4525-9746-7b0d35d23829/vintage.jpg Blog - Active Empathic Listening - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/a067c6ef-1f54-44cf-bac3-5bf5a10fc206/AEL.png Blog - Active Empathic Listening - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/triggering-gratefulness monthly 0.5 2022-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7e07a8a2-1fb3-4e28-a315-514c9f2dc942/flower+hand.jpg Blog - Triggering Gratefulness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/ba10ada8-8d54-4624-9d4e-ce1e7f94f4bb/Gratitude.jpg Blog - Triggering Gratefulness - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/embracing-self-compassion monthly 0.5 2022-10-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7a011c2d-24c4-45a5-b43b-f02a7a86ca66/Self-Care.jpg Blog - Embracing Self-Compassion - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/13f29f20-4928-42e0-bc3b-60c8ce428069/Balloons.jpg Blog - Embracing Self-Compassion - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/cultivating-and-leading-with-empathy monthly 0.5 2022-10-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/a7fefb20-ba64-42f0-b300-e050639c5b42/love.jpg Blog - Cultivating and Leading with Empathy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1664583636453-9XCKYRGMJIRES5PPFHCE/unsplash-image-TcWE0IQatTw.jpg Blog - Cultivating and Leading with Empathy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/gen-z-called-to-lead monthly 0.5 2022-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/b9e1b135-24aa-4c45-93c7-5eafac6f70fd/mic.jpg Blog - Gen Z: Called to Lead - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/995eb84c-d7ee-456b-a30d-6a7f07c06f8a/parachute+circle.jpg Blog - Gen Z: Called to Lead - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/renewing-attention monthly 0.5 2022-05-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/c4ef42e3-ab05-46ee-8467-81ab43dfc052/foci.jpg Blog - Renewing Attention https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/09aef0c7-45e6-444e-9f06-6d3af9c677e7/focal.jpg Blog - Renewing Attention - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/power-of-connection monthly 0.5 2022-10-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/415f8e2d-3673-44b1-b94b-57a205290c2b/friends.jpg Blog - Power of Connection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/6f830923-356a-4d97-87b3-fdacd705cb7a/maslow-pyramid.jpg Blog - Power of Connection - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-four-zemz8 monthly 0.5 2022-08-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/16a7d24f-a598-469a-b53b-36ba46dbc421/focus.jpg Blog - Building Inner Focus https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/40e78ad6-3abd-41cb-8992-31f4789fd769/ways-to-focus_orig.png Blog - Building Inner Focus - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/pursuing-an-authentic-social-network monthly 0.5 2022-08-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1659631557775-4AD9P4L3K5TGW4QASZSF/unsplash-image-Cecb0_8Hx-o.jpg Blog - Pursuing an Authentic Social Network - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1659631827061-VZZIUFZRB0UR1SNULROV/unsplash-image-vnpTRdmtQ30.jpg Blog - Pursuing an Authentic Social Network - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-six-jb2yr monthly 0.5 2022-05-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1fa45f44-562e-4d50-9774-82347c38e9b0/james-fuller-XwLEw7ciTpo-unsplash.jpg Blog - The Pursuit of Happiness with Flow https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-two-mw49n monthly 0.5 2022-05-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/4447cce9-a3a4-4a32-92f6-371db218ff2a/from-print-to-digital-media.png Blog - A Literary Pastime - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/8a2b7396-3fe9-472c-b5c8-b5fd6247274c/read-daily_orig.png Blog - A Literary Pastime - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-fourteen-22ljm monthly 0.5 2022-05-09 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-one-plbr2 monthly 0.5 2022-12-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/336596b0-d391-42d1-91f8-1063fb4490a8/lemon-handle.jpg Blog - Developing Your Creative Flow https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/8f9e6e70-0420-4960-b338-318c8fe1a881/creative.jpg Blog - Developing Your Creative Flow - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/dcd76a56-0de5-4aa4-a51b-41bd311f12ed/reflective-thought.png Blog - Developing Your Creative Flow - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-thirteen-2wtna monthly 0.5 2022-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/06f1ca67-9239-4c5d-a6b8-9569fd5cc14e/nubelson-fernandes-Xx4i6wg6HEg-unsplash.jpg Blog - Moving Past Procrastination https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-twelve-wps3t monthly 0.5 2025-05-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/c9fa94f8-c4a8-4a5b-b485-8fc89a857175/edu-lauton-TyQ-0lPp6e4-unsplash.jpg Blog - Emotional Adaptability https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/2c50558b-12cb-483a-93a5-948844f3d9b7/EI.jpg Blog - Emotional Adaptability - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/5befd326-c4ea-4560-9b3d-8edccf526116/optimism-reflections.png Blog - Emotional Adaptability - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-three-d734c monthly 0.5 2022-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/d8368ce9-3300-491e-bd94-450a6f21fa73/stressors.jpg Blog - Moving Through Obstacles https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/7cd5faf0-e899-4065-95a6-ab9ebac16c3a/breathe_orig.png Blog - Moving Through Obstacles - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-eleven-42zrg monthly 0.5 2022-05-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/9a06eb61-68d7-4fc1-8f17-710f94bd9260/begin.jpg Blog - Meaningful Goal-Setting https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-ten-gef6g monthly 0.5 2022-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/8c935695-8592-4fde-a637-fe5c1b90a5b4/stereo.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/6a147a8e-35c1-4b39-ad95-f8cec2898132/brain.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/678d019e-e6c2-415a-8649-9273b254b6d0/andre-hunter-p-I9wV811qk-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/631e445a-0d33-430f-b539-37e4bb61bba9/fritz-benning-D_Vgcwv-pr8-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/68be638e-0745-4167-ab34-2d785ed75df7/alexis-brown-omeaHbEFlN4-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/ae076109-0827-4333-ac54-b3905aba2b64/hans-eiskonen-qTxwKHZwl6M-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/504f17b4-a486-4352-be7d-8be8a3e5609d/norbert-toth-exI3uXWZgwo-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/24722d27-db38-4d9a-a782-c11e742a726f/wilhelm-gunkel-6bibCUj3lfA-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/42a369f3-4188-43e4-bfcf-668454b37711/hans-reniers-lQGJCMY5qcM-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/9fb2a8a4-635e-4c52-96d6-85b735f6ede9/tom-morbey-5jyEONpv0qA-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/1b5e7914-75fb-4df7-96f8-94361d4623ae/tim-gouw-1K9T5YiZ2WU-unsplash.jpg Blog - Behavioral Health Podcasts - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-seven-zd22g monthly 0.5 2022-05-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/310e244a-eccc-4631-830d-52c01487d668/train.jpg Blog - Time Advantage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/0e829427-69ad-4f52-92ef-16aec0abbad6/luis-villasmil-mlVbMbxfWI4-unsplash.jpg Blog - Time Advantage - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-eight-frstd monthly 0.5 2022-05-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/dfcfddc4-f017-4f78-9417-e732be834e5d/will-truettner-Z6Ix3LV5060-unsplash.jpg Blog - Identifying Core Values (and living by them) https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/blog-post-nine-8b2rb monthly 0.5 2022-05-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/4fd8b3bc-c291-48ff-aee2-75046c9dab16/mert-kahveci-Rfnljr9AlDk-unsplash.jpg Blog - Lifestyle Benefits of Sleep https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/43dfc236-f2b1-49e3-9e2e-1d79204761f0/sleep-stat.png Blog - Lifestyle Benefits of Sleep - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/category/Motivation+and+Habits monthly 0.5 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/category/Self-Identity monthly 0.5 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/category/Inner+Coach monthly 0.5 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/category/Emotion+Regulation monthly 0.5 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog/category/Community monthly 0.5 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog-1 daily 0.75 2022-05-01 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog-1/Blog Post Title One-33lrr monthly 0.5 2020-08-27 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog-1/blog-post-title-two-r5tj3 monthly 0.5 2020-05-20 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog-1/blog-post-title-three-prk66 monthly 0.5 2020-05-20 https://www.huskiehygge.org/blog-1/blog-post-title-four-ch6fs monthly 0.5 2020-05-20 https://www.huskiehygge.org/about daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/626def9344c82f0ccee9eb6e/23ebe369-92a6-450a-b4bf-4cf1f3435369/helena-lopes-PGnqT0rXWLs-unsplash.jpg About - A Wellness Collective at Naperville North High School. Huskie Hygge (pronounced “hue-guh”) is a wellness collective that incorporates principles from positive psychology and the behavioral sciences. Hygge is consistently found throughout Danish culture as a way of life to promote behavioral health, happiness, and overall life satisfaction. Currently, there is an urgent need to address the social-emotional skills and behavioral health of young people in a more holistic way. Schools that focus on building social and emotional skills have better results in the short and long-term than schools that are simply focused on raising test scores. Research shows that students who receive social-emotional and behavioral health support have higher grades, fewer absences, fewer arrests and disciplinary issues, and graduate and attend college at higher rates. Huskie Hygge is the messaging arm of the Student Services Department at NNHS; it serves students from diverse backgrounds that benefit from curated content through: applying an infusion of socio-emotional development, understanding research-based strategies for brain-based learning, and integrating various approaches, techniques, and interventions to catalyze personal growth. We pursue a student success profile in our reflections through embedding the five core concepts of: positive self-identity, activating motivation and habits, developing the inner coach, embracing emotion regulation, and pursuing healthy community. We have been writing to address current adolescent trends and circumstances related to Gen Z alongside infusing research and strategies from the SEL (socio-emotional learning) competencies of CASEL. Huskie Hygge was birthed from the initial outbreak of the novel coronavirus pandemic in Spring, 2020 to advance the science and practice of SEL in a global crisis. We continue to write regularly while discovering, gathering, and presenting on relevant themes and topics impacting Gen Z as "perspectives to promote honest and reflective dialogue." https://www.huskiehygge.org/contact daily 0.75 2022-05-04 https://www.huskiehygge.org/store daily 0.75 2023-05-23