Michael Smith 
The pursuit of self-love and fulfillment often requires navigating different cultural values and expectations. This dilemma is poignantly explored in a counseling session on the popular podcast “Where Should We Begin?” between renowned therapist Esther Perel and a caller of Pakistani descent. On the show, Perel engages in one-time intervention calls to help couples and … Read more
We all carry within us a voice that speaks to our sense of self, our actions, and our place in the world. Often, this voice takes on a critical tone, undermining our confidence and affecting our mental well-being. This voice, commonly known as the “inner critic,” is a pervasive aspect of the human experience, yet … Read more
In the intricate tapestry of human existence, there lies a common thread that binds many of us: the yearning for acceptance and the weight of self-judgment. “Radical Acceptance” invites us on a transformative journey, one that beckons us to shed the heavy cloaks of unworthiness and embrace the light of self-compassion. Tim Ferriss said this … Read more
Have you ever found yourself doubting your worth, questioning your abilities, or feeling like you’re not good enough? If so, you’re not alone. Self-esteem is a cornerstone of our mental and emotional well-being, influencing everything from our relationships to our career success. Yet, many of us struggle with negative self-perceptions that hold us back from … Read more
We hope this message finds you in a state of well-being and self-compassion. We are thrilled to share some exciting news with you today. After months of thoughtful preparation, we are delighted to announce the launch of our brand new podcast, “Sounds of Self-Esteem.” What is “Sounds of Self-Esteem”? “Sounds of Self-Esteem” is a podcast … Read more
Intelligent and accomplished narcissists seem to gain status and recognition differently than those lacking smarts and success. While classic narcissistic behaviors like arrogance, entitlement, and haughtiness persist, recent research reveals smarter narcissists are less likely to tear others down to promote themselves. How does their intellectual capacity shape their status-seeking strategies? Psychologists break narcissistic status-seeking … Read more
Navigating the emotional landscape of a family is challenging enough, but when a family member exhibits traits of narcissistic personality disorder, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. The constant need for validation, the manipulative tactics, and the lack of genuine empathy can make even the simplest interactions draining and complex. If you find yourself in … Read more
Do you ever find yourself thinking, “I’m addicted to porn”? Before you declare it an addiction, it’s important to understand why perceived pornography addiction is often linked more closely to narcissistic tendencies than an actual addiction. Recent research has uncovered strong connections between narcissism and believing oneself to be addicted to porn. Specifically, it’s the … Read more
In the realms of psychology and endocrinology, few topics are as individually compelling as narcissism and testosterone. Narcissism, often misunderstood and stigmatized, is a complex psychological construct that impacts not just the individual but also their relationships and communities. On the other hand, testosterone, a hormone most commonly associated with masculinity, has wide-ranging effects on … Read more
This is a guest contribution by Dr. Kristin Neff, an associate professor in the University of Texas at Austin’s department of educational psychology. Dr. Neff received her doctorate from the University of California at Berkeley, studying moral development. In the pursuit of well-being and happiness, we often focus on kindness, empathy, and compassion towards others. … Read more