Summary: Have you ever misused a word? I have. Do you know how deep do the roots of this week's WOW word go? Here's a test: Does chthonic mean "to the marrow" or does it refer to something even deeper (and darker) than that?
For almost 10 years, one of my favorite words has been chthonic. ... Only today, I learned I have been both mispronouncing and misusing it all this time! It seems these Words of the Week can be WOWing to me, too.
My interpretation of this word (taken from a book I once read about Jungian dream analysis) was something that was bone-deep, or to the core of oneself. However, when I set out to craft this blog post today—and share what I thought I knew with you—I discovered that the actual meaning of chthonic (and its partner chthonian) is really something of or relating to the underworld. Have I been equating the essence of myself with Hellishness all this time!? *gasp!* I shudder (and chuckle) to think what people have believed I thought of myself for the last decade ... that is, if they understood it at all.
But that's what happens when I 'teach' myself new words without looking them up and verifying them. Have you ever seen a word in print and gleaned its meaning from the text? Sometimes this is easy. Other times, it only seems easy, and really we wind up making ourselves look foolish!
Having a sense of humor about it is helpful. So, is being flexible. For instance, have you ever used a word in a sentence, only to have someone correct your pronunciation or usage? If so, how have you reacted? What was the most embarrassing moment you can recall? (And do you also remember the word?)
My guess is the experience taught you the proper usage/pronunciation/spelling/etc. more firmly than a lot of other word-learning experiences. Funny how negative experiences seem to do that, being burned into our brains indelibly. There's something rather chthonic about it, eh?
Chthonic (THO - nik) or chthonian (THO - nee - yan) - Of or relating to the underworld; infernal. Although both versions have their roots directly in the Greek word khthon, or earth, they only entered English about a century and a half ago: chthonian was first recorded in use in 1850, and chthonic, in 1882.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Showing posts with label brain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label brain. Show all posts
Jan 31, 2011
Oct 18, 2010
WORD OF THE WEEK: Prosopagnosia
Summary: This week's WOW vocabulary word features a common aspect among those on the autism spectrum.
Can you i
magine waking up in the morning, stumbling into the bathroom to shower and not recognizing the person in the mirror? This is the experience of people with extreme prosopagnosia, a medical condition sometimes called face blindness.
It's asserted that people who have the condition, often known as prosopagnosics, generally have difficulty recognizing places, objects and/or emotions, too. Particularly, they have a hard time recognizing emotions as they are displayed on the face or in body language. Sound familiar? It should. It describes people on the autism spectrum with HFA (High Functioning Autism) or Asperger Syndrome—all part of this week's featured brain challenge.
The word itself was coined in 1947 in a research paper by German neurologist Joachim Bodamer, who concocted it by combining one Greek word, prosopon (or face) with the medical term for recognition impairment, agnosia. Interestingly enough, agnosia is the combo of two more Greek words: gnosis for knowledge and a for the negative, as in "not known." The American pronunciation is PRAH - so - pag - NO - zhya.
Click here to test your own recognition of faces.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Can you i
magine waking up in the morning, stumbling into the bathroom to shower and not recognizing the person in the mirror? This is the experience of people with extreme prosopagnosia, a medical condition sometimes called face blindness.It's asserted that people who have the condition, often known as prosopagnosics, generally have difficulty recognizing places, objects and/or emotions, too. Particularly, they have a hard time recognizing emotions as they are displayed on the face or in body language. Sound familiar? It should. It describes people on the autism spectrum with HFA (High Functioning Autism) or Asperger Syndrome—all part of this week's featured brain challenge.
The word itself was coined in 1947 in a research paper by German neurologist Joachim Bodamer, who concocted it by combining one Greek word, prosopon (or face) with the medical term for recognition impairment, agnosia. Interestingly enough, agnosia is the combo of two more Greek words: gnosis for knowledge and a for the negative, as in "not known." The American pronunciation is PRAH - so - pag - NO - zhya.
Click here to test your own recognition of faces.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Oct 13, 2010
This Week's Brain Challenge: Autism
Summary: What does the word autism mean to you? Over the next couple of weeks, we'll explore some resources and meet at least one expert that can share some examples of empowerment in ASDs.
Often, when I hear the word autism, I'm transported to a visceral memory of sitting in a doctor's office, waiting as patiently as an 11-year-old can for my great-grandmother to emerge. (Some parts of the memory are foggy, such as where exactly this doctor's office was and if, in fact, it really was my great-grandmother's appointment and not that of someone else.) And within this memory, I am transported into a story.
The story—rather, the article I was reading during my time in the waiting room—was about a little boy with autism, and how his parents were thrilled that a dolphin-swim adventure in Florida (or perhaps Hawaii) had seemingly brought him out of his 'world' within. This story gripped me fully: I have a vivid inner world of creativity. Was I autistic?
The writer of the article strove to paint a picture with words, something that is typically a challenge for people with autism, since they don't operate with "theory of mind." (See more on this via the video link below.) Furthermore, the article was written primarily from the parents' point of view with mostly guesswork as to what this "world within" was like for the little boy with autism. Being a kid, myself, at the time, I was incredibly curious about his inner life.
What is autism? I've since learned along with the rest of the world that it's not something that strikes just anyone at any time, but is rather a difference in brain development that does have a genetic component. (The potential environmental factors are still in dispute.)
Often referred to nowadays as an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, it is—like all brain challenges—on a continuum. Ranging from high-functioning (HFA) to severe, ASDs share some similar symptoms, no matter where they fall on the spectrum. Some of these are:
• difficulty making or holding eye contact
• confusion over social skills and etiquette
• challenges in reading body language or other cues
• further challenges in understanding one's own or others' emotions
• hyper-sensitivity to sensory stimuli (i.e., loud noises or certain odors or tastes)
• lack of "theory of mind"
• extraordinary intelligence.
Later this week and next, I'll be sharing some resources on autism/ASDs—including points from my interview with Brian King, M.S.W., who not only mentors ASD kids and their parents, but is the father of three sons on the autism spectrum, the husband to a wife with ASD, and even identifies himself as a Spectrumite along with the rest of his family. He knows a lot about this subject! Keep reading if you want to know more, too.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Often, when I hear the word autism, I'm transported to a visceral memory of sitting in a doctor's office, waiting as patiently as an 11-year-old can for my great-grandmother to emerge. (Some parts of the memory are foggy, such as where exactly this doctor's office was and if, in fact, it really was my great-grandmother's appointment and not that of someone else.) And within this memory, I am transported into a story.
The story—rather, the article I was reading during my time in the waiting room—was about a little boy with autism, and how his parents were thrilled that a dolphin-swim adventure in Florida (or perhaps Hawaii) had seemingly brought him out of his 'world' within. This story gripped me fully: I have a vivid inner world of creativity. Was I autistic?
The writer of the article strove to paint a picture with words, something that is typically a challenge for people with autism, since they don't operate with "theory of mind." (See more on this via the video link below.) Furthermore, the article was written primarily from the parents' point of view with mostly guesswork as to what this "world within" was like for the little boy with autism. Being a kid, myself, at the time, I was incredibly curious about his inner life.
What is autism? I've since learned along with the rest of the world that it's not something that strikes just anyone at any time, but is rather a difference in brain development that does have a genetic component. (The potential environmental factors are still in dispute.)
Often referred to nowadays as an Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, it is—like all brain challenges—on a continuum. Ranging from high-functioning (HFA) to severe, ASDs share some similar symptoms, no matter where they fall on the spectrum. Some of these are:
• difficulty making or holding eye contact
• confusion over social skills and etiquette
• challenges in reading body language or other cues
• further challenges in understanding one's own or others' emotions
• hyper-sensitivity to sensory stimuli (i.e., loud noises or certain odors or tastes)
• lack of "theory of mind"
• extraordinary intelligence.
Later this week and next, I'll be sharing some resources on autism/ASDs—including points from my interview with Brian King, M.S.W., who not only mentors ASD kids and their parents, but is the father of three sons on the autism spectrum, the husband to a wife with ASD, and even identifies himself as a Spectrumite along with the rest of his family. He knows a lot about this subject! Keep reading if you want to know more, too.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Oct 1, 2010
Do You Make the Sunshine (or Do You Make the Rain)?
Summary: Moods and weather go hand-in-hand. But how often do you associate a good mood with bad weather? Today's post gives you a 4-step how-to guide to feeling good (and spreading the love) no matter what it's like outside.
October 1, 2010 is a date to remember—for me, that is. It's my husband's birthday, as well as a beautiful day with near-perfect temperatures. Fall is one of my favorite times of year to begin with; this just gives me another reason to celebrate.
I spoke with my mom when she phoned to wish Hubby a happy b-day, and I asked her, "What should I blog about today?" Her answer was, "Does Your Mood Match the Weather?"
Then she framed it in a light I'd never considered: "Do you get blue when it's dark and gloomy out or do you make your own sunshine and light up the lives of people around you?"
"Wow," I thought. "I've never considered this!"
My mom is definitely someone who does the latter on a pretty regular basis. She, like me, knows what it's like to feel blue contagiously. Gloomy days make for gloomy outlooks. But I remember in my childhood when the rain kept my sisters and me indoors, and the three of us would get cabin fever and start bickering and fighting; it was then that our mother often suggested new games for us to play to enliven our spirits. Today, I know that Mom still reaches into the depths of her resolve to share sunshine with her friends, family and co-workers whenever she feels foul weather creeping up on herself or those around her. Her sunny disposition is contagious, too, just like negativity so often is.
What's your automatic disposition? Is it affected by the weather? If so, you might try a little experiment next time to see if YOU can spread a little sunshine.
How to Spread Sunshine:
1. Think of something or someone that makes you happy, like a favorite hobby, a good friend you've recently seen or a beloved pet. Now imagine how good you felt the last time you were engaged in that activity or with that friend/furry friend.
2. Notice how good you feel in your body during these thoughts. Smile. Imagine that feeling spreading like warmth, and smile some more.
3. As you are conscious of this good feeling, seek out someone near you (co-worker, neighbor, spouse, child, etc.) and smile at him or her. Pay that person a sincere compliment or perform another act of kindness (i.e., hold a door open or offer to help weed the garden). If they thank you, be sure to say, "You're welcome,"—and mean it!
4. Again, notice how good you feel in your body. Smile and even hum a happy tune if you like. You deserve it, Sunshine!
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
October 1, 2010 is a date to remember—for me, that is. It's my husband's birthday, as well as a beautiful day with near-perfect temperatures. Fall is one of my favorite times of year to begin with; this just gives me another reason to celebrate.
I spoke with my mom when she phoned to wish Hubby a happy b-day, and I asked her, "What should I blog about today?" Her answer was, "Does Your Mood Match the Weather?"
Then she framed it in a light I'd never considered: "Do you get blue when it's dark and gloomy out or do you make your own sunshine and light up the lives of people around you?"
"Wow," I thought. "I've never considered this!"
My mom is definitely someone who does the latter on a pretty regular basis. She, like me, knows what it's like to feel blue contagiously. Gloomy days make for gloomy outlooks. But I remember in my childhood when the rain kept my sisters and me indoors, and the three of us would get cabin fever and start bickering and fighting; it was then that our mother often suggested new games for us to play to enliven our spirits. Today, I know that Mom still reaches into the depths of her resolve to share sunshine with her friends, family and co-workers whenever she feels foul weather creeping up on herself or those around her. Her sunny disposition is contagious, too, just like negativity so often is.
What's your automatic disposition? Is it affected by the weather? If so, you might try a little experiment next time to see if YOU can spread a little sunshine.
How to Spread Sunshine:
1. Think of something or someone that makes you happy, like a favorite hobby, a good friend you've recently seen or a beloved pet. Now imagine how good you felt the last time you were engaged in that activity or with that friend/furry friend.
2. Notice how good you feel in your body during these thoughts. Smile. Imagine that feeling spreading like warmth, and smile some more.
3. As you are conscious of this good feeling, seek out someone near you (co-worker, neighbor, spouse, child, etc.) and smile at him or her. Pay that person a sincere compliment or perform another act of kindness (i.e., hold a door open or offer to help weed the garden). If they thank you, be sure to say, "You're welcome,"—and mean it!
4. Again, notice how good you feel in your body. Smile and even hum a happy tune if you like. You deserve it, Sunshine!
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Sep 23, 2010
3 Easy Ways to Speak Clearly When You're Depressed
Summary: Concluding our blog series about the brain challenges that depression brings, today I share with you 3 easy ways to change negative brain chemistry and re-focus your communication skills when you need to most.
Depression seriously hinders your ability to communicate clearly. In fact, it even affects your ability to think clearly, so that often when you're down, you may not know what it is you really mean to say. Consider this scenario:
You oversleep (a common symptom of depression) and find yourself running late to an important work meeting. Because of the negative outlook you have during depressed states, you can't stop thinking about how many times you've been late before and the dire consequences it will have on your career this time. You even focus on a mental list you make of your negative traits, including "laziness" for oversleeping again. Because your brain is preoccupied with all of this, you have a hard time focusing on your routine and wind up running even further behind. To make matters worse, you walk out the door without the important report you need for the meeting!
By the time you get to the meeting—late, of course—and realize your mistake, you know you'll have some explaining to do. But the only thoughts you can muster sound something like: "I'm such a failure. I'm probably going to get fired from this project, and I deserve it, too." And when you're confronted by your supervisor at the meeting's end, it's pretty much those sentiments you share, only even less intelligibly.
Here are three techniques that can help you think more clearly to lessen depression's hold on your tongue and your outlook this winter:
Exercise - Studies have shown that regular exercise changes brain chemistry, promoting "feel good" chemicals like endorphins that can provide a euphoric feeling. (Ever hear of "runner's high?" It's not just a myth!) During depression, these chemicals are generally lacking; so boosting them can restore balance. Start small if you must: The simple act of walking around the block counts.
Meditation - Similarly, meditation promotes harmony in brain chemistry and harmony in the body, too. Pain is another common symptom of the disease, but calming your worry and negativity will help to alleviate some of that. If you've already been exercising, a good time to meditate is right after your workout, when you are experiencing some positivity. Start by focusing on your body first—how it feels as you sit or lie down; what your breath feels like in your chest, lungs, belly, nostrils; any other sensations you notice. Then move into noticing your thoughts. If you practice observing them without judgment, you may further lessen depression's grip on your thinking. This may be hard to start with, but it does get easier. To help, picture thoughts like buses or trains that you watch but choose not to enter.
Affirmations - If you're able to exercise at least three times a week (mornings are best if you're suffering from depression, because you can start your day off with a little clarity) and are meditating at least once a week after you exercise, you're certainly ready to tackle the rest of that negative thinking with some conscious counter-thinking. Affirmations are excellent tools for this. A good, simple affirmation for depression is: "I feel good. I intentionally create my life today."
I've mentioned that I'm prone to seasonal depression, myself. (For more on the different types of depression, click here.) I like to combine affirmations and exercise together by dancing around to music on my earbuds: a mix of songs with "happy" and "feel good" that are upbeat. My favorite mix includes four different versions of James Brown's "I Feel Good!" And it makes me feel just that. Try some of these techniques for yourself and tell me how it makes you feel.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Depression seriously hinders your ability to communicate clearly. In fact, it even affects your ability to think clearly, so that often when you're down, you may not know what it is you really mean to say. Consider this scenario:
You oversleep (a common symptom of depression) and find yourself running late to an important work meeting. Because of the negative outlook you have during depressed states, you can't stop thinking about how many times you've been late before and the dire consequences it will have on your career this time. You even focus on a mental list you make of your negative traits, including "laziness" for oversleeping again. Because your brain is preoccupied with all of this, you have a hard time focusing on your routine and wind up running even further behind. To make matters worse, you walk out the door without the important report you need for the meeting!
By the time you get to the meeting—late, of course—and realize your mistake, you know you'll have some explaining to do. But the only thoughts you can muster sound something like: "I'm such a failure. I'm probably going to get fired from this project, and I deserve it, too." And when you're confronted by your supervisor at the meeting's end, it's pretty much those sentiments you share, only even less intelligibly.
Here are three techniques that can help you think more clearly to lessen depression's hold on your tongue and your outlook this winter:
Exercise - Studies have shown that regular exercise changes brain chemistry, promoting "feel good" chemicals like endorphins that can provide a euphoric feeling. (Ever hear of "runner's high?" It's not just a myth!) During depression, these chemicals are generally lacking; so boosting them can restore balance. Start small if you must: The simple act of walking around the block counts.
Meditation - Similarly, meditation promotes harmony in brain chemistry and harmony in the body, too. Pain is another common symptom of the disease, but calming your worry and negativity will help to alleviate some of that. If you've already been exercising, a good time to meditate is right after your workout, when you are experiencing some positivity. Start by focusing on your body first—how it feels as you sit or lie down; what your breath feels like in your chest, lungs, belly, nostrils; any other sensations you notice. Then move into noticing your thoughts. If you practice observing them without judgment, you may further lessen depression's grip on your thinking. This may be hard to start with, but it does get easier. To help, picture thoughts like buses or trains that you watch but choose not to enter.
Affirmations - If you're able to exercise at least three times a week (mornings are best if you're suffering from depression, because you can start your day off with a little clarity) and are meditating at least once a week after you exercise, you're certainly ready to tackle the rest of that negative thinking with some conscious counter-thinking. Affirmations are excellent tools for this. A good, simple affirmation for depression is: "I feel good. I intentionally create my life today."
I've mentioned that I'm prone to seasonal depression, myself. (For more on the different types of depression, click here.) I like to combine affirmations and exercise together by dancing around to music on my earbuds: a mix of songs with "happy" and "feel good" that are upbeat. My favorite mix includes four different versions of James Brown's "I Feel Good!" And it makes me feel just that. Try some of these techniques for yourself and tell me how it makes you feel.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Sep 20, 2010
WORD OF THE WEEK: Doleful
Summary: This is the last week we'll be looking at depression, one of the issues that often challenges our brains during communication. In keeping with the theme, this week's WOW is doleful ...
Last week, my extended family experienced the loss of a wonderful woman named Pauline. A fun, spirited woman, Pauline had a cheery effect on us whenever she was around. She was smiling and accepting, and she was even up for poking fun at herself instead of taking herself too seriously. I, for one, can learn a lot from her legacy.
We're all grieving the loss of her presence, to say the least. One of the most insidious aspects of grief is its ability to pop up whenever it wants to: Often the death of one loved one will take us back to the losses of those we're still somehow inwardly mourning. Because Pauline's passing was unexpected, I've found myself thinking a lot lately about other family members who were taken away too soon and without warning: a cousin who overdosed, another who was shot and killed, and an uncle who died in a car accident. One thing that's different in this case is that Pauline fortunately lived a long, full life and was even a great-grandmother.
I guess you could say I've been a little doleful in my thinking over the last week. Not familiar with the term? Let me help:
Doleful (DOHL - full) – (adj.) cheerless or full of grief; also, causing grief or affliction; also, expressing grief/sadness. Synonyms can include: melancholy, plaintive, plangent, funereal—or even sad or depressed.
The last thing I want to do is bring you down as I speak my truth. So, here's something to look forward to: The next post will include more links on changing your brain, plus some tips and tricks for ways you can improve your communication even when negative thinking (like that found in depression) tries to hijack you.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Last week, my extended family experienced the loss of a wonderful woman named Pauline. A fun, spirited woman, Pauline had a cheery effect on us whenever she was around. She was smiling and accepting, and she was even up for poking fun at herself instead of taking herself too seriously. I, for one, can learn a lot from her legacy.
We're all grieving the loss of her presence, to say the least. One of the most insidious aspects of grief is its ability to pop up whenever it wants to: Often the death of one loved one will take us back to the losses of those we're still somehow inwardly mourning. Because Pauline's passing was unexpected, I've found myself thinking a lot lately about other family members who were taken away too soon and without warning: a cousin who overdosed, another who was shot and killed, and an uncle who died in a car accident. One thing that's different in this case is that Pauline fortunately lived a long, full life and was even a great-grandmother.
I guess you could say I've been a little doleful in my thinking over the last week. Not familiar with the term? Let me help:
Doleful (DOHL - full) – (adj.) cheerless or full of grief; also, causing grief or affliction; also, expressing grief/sadness. Synonyms can include: melancholy, plaintive, plangent, funereal—or even sad or depressed.
The last thing I want to do is bring you down as I speak my truth. So, here's something to look forward to: The next post will include more links on changing your brain, plus some tips and tricks for ways you can improve your communication even when negative thinking (like that found in depression) tries to hijack you.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Sep 13, 2010
WORD OF THE WEEK: Serotonin
Summary: This week's scientific-sounding word may be more important to you than you think. It affects the most apparent part about the way you communicate with your world and with yourself: your mood!
What is serotonin? And why should you care?
You don't have to be a "Wise Geek" to want to learn about this important hormone found in the brain and elsewhere in the body that transmits nerve impulses. As such, it's a neurotransmitter, and it works with other neurotransmitters (like noradrenaline, dopamine and its very own off-shoot, melatonin) to help us operate important body functions—like digestion and blood flow. It also affects and helps to create our moods.
Many anti-depressant drugs make use of serotonin to help normalize moods in depressed people. In fact, there are a whole class of such drugs known as SSRIs, or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, that work with the brain's naturally occurring neurotransmitters (especially serotonin) to change the balance of the various brain chemicals and to artificially generate a more normalized amount of each—thus balancing out a person's moods, as well.
You can learn much more about serotonin and other neurotransmitters here at this website that breaks down neuroscience into kid-friendly lessons. And, as on every Monday, you can learn about the word serotonin, this week's featured word, below.
Serotonin (SER - uh - TOW - nin) - (n.) a powerful vasoconstrictor, or hormone/neurotransmitter, that's found in the brain, blood stream and gastric mucous membranes of mammals, including humans. The first known use of this word was in 1948 by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic who combined the words serum and tone (as in vascular tone) to coin the term serotonin. The chemical name for it is 5-HT.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
What is serotonin? And why should you care?
You don't have to be a "Wise Geek" to want to learn about this important hormone found in the brain and elsewhere in the body that transmits nerve impulses. As such, it's a neurotransmitter, and it works with other neurotransmitters (like noradrenaline, dopamine and its very own off-shoot, melatonin) to help us operate important body functions—like digestion and blood flow. It also affects and helps to create our moods.
Many anti-depressant drugs make use of serotonin to help normalize moods in depressed people. In fact, there are a whole class of such drugs known as SSRIs, or selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, that work with the brain's naturally occurring neurotransmitters (especially serotonin) to change the balance of the various brain chemicals and to artificially generate a more normalized amount of each—thus balancing out a person's moods, as well.
You can learn much more about serotonin and other neurotransmitters here at this website that breaks down neuroscience into kid-friendly lessons. And, as on every Monday, you can learn about the word serotonin, this week's featured word, below.
Serotonin (SER - uh - TOW - nin) - (n.) a powerful vasoconstrictor, or hormone/neurotransmitter, that's found in the brain, blood stream and gastric mucous membranes of mammals, including humans. The first known use of this word was in 1948 by doctors at the Cleveland Clinic who combined the words serum and tone (as in vascular tone) to coin the term serotonin. The chemical name for it is 5-HT.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Sep 9, 2010
How to Think Your Way to a Better Future
Summary: From bumper stickers to résumés, today's post covers the gamut. It's all about how to change your thinking, so you can be open to life's opportunities ...
Do you ever read bumper stickers on the cars in front of you? Yesterday on the expressway, I passed a car with so many bumper stickers, I thought it had been attacked by graffiti ... until I got a little closer to it. Then I laughed!
Can a bumper sticker really change someone's mind? Maybe not. But chances are that if someone believes the slogan, it can certainly help to solidify a belief. And if a belief is really solid, it becomes that person's reality—or in other words, his or her truth.
So, if a bumper sticker—something you read in passing—can have that much power, imagine what an affirmation can do for you.
If you or someone you love suffers from depression, chances are the real culprit (next to those pesky brain chemicals that genetically predispose you or them to depressed states) is your thinking. The way we think has a major impact on our world, from the clothes we wear to the people we surround ourselves with to even the careers we pursue. For instance, so many clients come to me for résumé-related communications packages who are simply looking to change jobs, but they admit they don't have any direction on where to go next except simply "out of here." These clients ask for a generic résumé that they think will snag them their ticket to freedom. But the truth is they're actually limiting their options by not envisioning themselves as worthy of any specific next step to career growth.
I love working with clients like these, because I was once in their shoes. In my late 20s, the job I'd loved became the job I resented, simply because the path I initially envisioned for myself was not available to me there. But I was too afraid to leave the job security and strike out on my own. Today, when I can help clients to admit their worth to themselves, I get the chance to watch them make peace with their present jobs and to keep their relationships with their current employers intact as they look for something more suited to them.
Don't let fear of the economy stop you from seeking your true calling. Don't let depression rule your perspective in any aspect of life. To learn more about the secret, nagging doubts that can sneak attack your brain, check out The Mindful Way through Depression by Jon Kabat-Zinn et. al. or download the Speak Your Truth e-workbook. And change the way you think about your life and your opportunities today.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Do you ever read bumper stickers on the cars in front of you? Yesterday on the expressway, I passed a car with so many bumper stickers, I thought it had been attacked by graffiti ... until I got a little closer to it. Then I laughed!
Can a bumper sticker really change someone's mind? Maybe not. But chances are that if someone believes the slogan, it can certainly help to solidify a belief. And if a belief is really solid, it becomes that person's reality—or in other words, his or her truth.
So, if a bumper sticker—something you read in passing—can have that much power, imagine what an affirmation can do for you.
If you or someone you love suffers from depression, chances are the real culprit (next to those pesky brain chemicals that genetically predispose you or them to depressed states) is your thinking. The way we think has a major impact on our world, from the clothes we wear to the people we surround ourselves with to even the careers we pursue. For instance, so many clients come to me for résumé-related communications packages who are simply looking to change jobs, but they admit they don't have any direction on where to go next except simply "out of here." These clients ask for a generic résumé that they think will snag them their ticket to freedom. But the truth is they're actually limiting their options by not envisioning themselves as worthy of any specific next step to career growth.
I love working with clients like these, because I was once in their shoes. In my late 20s, the job I'd loved became the job I resented, simply because the path I initially envisioned for myself was not available to me there. But I was too afraid to leave the job security and strike out on my own. Today, when I can help clients to admit their worth to themselves, I get the chance to watch them make peace with their present jobs and to keep their relationships with their current employers intact as they look for something more suited to them.
Don't let fear of the economy stop you from seeking your true calling. Don't let depression rule your perspective in any aspect of life. To learn more about the secret, nagging doubts that can sneak attack your brain, check out The Mindful Way through Depression by Jon Kabat-Zinn et. al. or download the Speak Your Truth e-workbook. And change the way you think about your life and your opportunities today.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Aug 30, 2010
WORD OF THE WEEK: Hypengyophobia
Summary: I get a little personal in today's post and share some background about my relationship to leadership. Then I tell you how this week's word, hypengyophobia, is—or isn't—related to leadership.
With the lack of blog posts I've been making over the last few weeks, I'm beginning to think I may have hypengyophobia! What is that, you ask? Well, maybe you can break it down and take a guess or two ...
But first, let me tell you a little personal background: I've been a 'leader' throughout most of my life. But the fact of the matter is until I was in my teens, I tended to lead only from behind the scenes. Attention made me uncomfortable. And I just didn't see myself as someone others could look up to as a decision-maker. I've learned since that my younger sisters saw me quite differently than I saw myself.
Once I did start taking leadership positions—say, as the president of my church youth group or as the managing editor of my high school newspaper—I still struggled with speaking up and asking questions. Unfortunately for me (and everyone I was supposedly leading), I thought at that time that question-asking equaled weakness. I've learned since that asking questions and truly listening to answers are important aspects of leadership. So is humility. But that's a subject for another post. I think the most sincerely important role for any leader is to ask for help whenever it's needed. So, as I begin my search for interns to help me manage my time, I'm presently struggling with posting blogs as frequently as I'd like.
I'm not just sharing these little tidbits at random. They really are related to today's Word of the Week.
If you've studied your prefixes, suffixes and root words, you probably already know that phobia comes from the Greek for fear. The most recent Top Ten List from Merriam-Webster is another list of phobias (something I've blogged about before). I confess to having ochlophobia, fear of crowds, and a touch of amathophobia, or an aversion to dust bunnies. But before we go trading secrets—I'm just dying to know what you have, of course—let me explain today's WOW.
Hypengyophobia (HY - PEN - jee - o - FO - bee - yuh) – an abnormal fear of responsibility. Hypengyos is Greek for responsible. This word entered the English language in the late 1780s.
So, what words on the list strike terror in your heart? Better yet, what's your relationship to responsibility? And does depression—our present brain challenge—ever affect your abilities as a leader?
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
With the lack of blog posts I've been making over the last few weeks, I'm beginning to think I may have hypengyophobia! What is that, you ask? Well, maybe you can break it down and take a guess or two ...
But first, let me tell you a little personal background: I've been a 'leader' throughout most of my life. But the fact of the matter is until I was in my teens, I tended to lead only from behind the scenes. Attention made me uncomfortable. And I just didn't see myself as someone others could look up to as a decision-maker. I've learned since that my younger sisters saw me quite differently than I saw myself.
Once I did start taking leadership positions—say, as the president of my church youth group or as the managing editor of my high school newspaper—I still struggled with speaking up and asking questions. Unfortunately for me (and everyone I was supposedly leading), I thought at that time that question-asking equaled weakness. I've learned since that asking questions and truly listening to answers are important aspects of leadership. So is humility. But that's a subject for another post. I think the most sincerely important role for any leader is to ask for help whenever it's needed. So, as I begin my search for interns to help me manage my time, I'm presently struggling with posting blogs as frequently as I'd like.
I'm not just sharing these little tidbits at random. They really are related to today's Word of the Week.
If you've studied your prefixes, suffixes and root words, you probably already know that phobia comes from the Greek for fear. The most recent Top Ten List from Merriam-Webster is another list of phobias (something I've blogged about before). I confess to having ochlophobia, fear of crowds, and a touch of amathophobia, or an aversion to dust bunnies. But before we go trading secrets—I'm just dying to know what you have, of course—let me explain today's WOW.
Hypengyophobia (HY - PEN - jee - o - FO - bee - yuh) – an abnormal fear of responsibility. Hypengyos is Greek for responsible. This word entered the English language in the late 1780s.
So, what words on the list strike terror in your heart? Better yet, what's your relationship to responsibility? And does depression—our present brain challenge—ever affect your abilities as a leader?
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Aug 23, 2010
Word of the Week: Amygdala
Summary: Today's word is another medical term that goes along with the brain challenge we're presently studying—depression.
In the last post, we began looking at depression—one of the brain challenges that can adversely affect communication. We also learned a little about the different parts of the brain that are involved in the creation of depression, such as those chemicals and neurons that are central to brain function.
Currently, there is some controversy about an area (or areas) of the brain known as the amygdala. According to Scholarpedia, many scientists now believe that the amygdala is not its own brain 'structure' at all, but is a part of other structures within the brain that work together to perform certain functions. Originally, however, it was thought to be made up of a couple of almond-shaped nuclei (as shown, below left, in a bird's eye view of the brain), responsible for sensory input—including that input of arousal and fear and other emotions. Hence, the amygdala has its roots in the creation of depression in the brain. (The second image, below right, indicates where the amygdala is located in the brain.)
But before I show you the brain images, let's look together at the word itself:
Amygdala (UH - MIG - duh - luh) - According to Merriam-Webster.com, it's "one of the four basal ganglia in each cerebral hemisphere that is part of the limbic system, and consists of an almond-shaped mass of gray matter in the anterior extremity of the temporal lobe—called also amygdaloid nucleus." The word originated in around 1845 from the Greek amygdale for almond. Pluralized, as it is sometimes now written (thanks to a better understanding of its multiple parts), the word is spelled amygdalae.
In the last post, we began looking at depression—one of the brain challenges that can adversely affect communication. We also learned a little about the different parts of the brain that are involved in the creation of depression, such as those chemicals and neurons that are central to brain function.
Currently, there is some controversy about an area (or areas) of the brain known as the amygdala. According to Scholarpedia, many scientists now believe that the amygdala is not its own brain 'structure' at all, but is a part of other structures within the brain that work together to perform certain functions. Originally, however, it was thought to be made up of a couple of almond-shaped nuclei (as shown, below left, in a bird's eye view of the brain), responsible for sensory input—including that input of arousal and fear and other emotions. Hence, the amygdala has its roots in the creation of depression in the brain. (The second image, below right, indicates where the amygdala is located in the brain.)
But before I show you the brain images, let's look together at the word itself:
Amygdala (UH - MIG - duh - luh) - According to Merriam-Webster.com, it's "one of the four basal ganglia in each cerebral hemisphere that is part of the limbic system, and consists of an almond-shaped mass of gray matter in the anterior extremity of the temporal lobe—called also amygdaloid nucleus." The word originated in around 1845 from the Greek amygdale for almond. Pluralized, as it is sometimes now written (thanks to a better understanding of its multiple parts), the word is spelled amygdalae.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Aug 18, 2010
This Week's Brain Challenge: Depression
Summary: Today's post starts off a series on depression and communication.
"I'm depressed!" How many times have you heard this said--or even said it yourself? Your answer depends in large part upon the way your brain works.
The fact is, everyone's brains are different. However, many parts of our brains are similar; just read this ThinkQuest post--complete with illustrations--for a little "for instance" on brain damage and communication. As it explains, the sections that control various purposes in the brain have general locations of commonality. But even those can differ from person to person.
Similarly, our brains function with neurons as connectors, as well as with certain chemicals (found in the limbic system), like serotonin, dopamine and derivative chemicals like adrenaline. A long explanation can be found here, for those of you who are more academically inclined to understand this process. But the bottom line is: The brain is a precious thing, and it's also very powerful. Any disruption in the careful balance of chemicals in your brain can cause reactions that are out of the range of 'normal'--reactions that include the disease of depression.
Over the next several posts, we'll be looking at depression in a variety of forms, as well as ways depression can affect your communication skills and abilities, even if you aren't the person who's suffering from it. We'll also examine how you can improve your ability to speak and to listen more clearly when depression is a part of the message.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
"I'm depressed!" How many times have you heard this said--or even said it yourself? Your answer depends in large part upon the way your brain works.
The fact is, everyone's brains are different. However, many parts of our brains are similar; just read this ThinkQuest post--complete with illustrations--for a little "for instance" on brain damage and communication. As it explains, the sections that control various purposes in the brain have general locations of commonality. But even those can differ from person to person.
Similarly, our brains function with neurons as connectors, as well as with certain chemicals (found in the limbic system), like serotonin, dopamine and derivative chemicals like adrenaline. A long explanation can be found here, for those of you who are more academically inclined to understand this process. But the bottom line is: The brain is a precious thing, and it's also very powerful. Any disruption in the careful balance of chemicals in your brain can cause reactions that are out of the range of 'normal'--reactions that include the disease of depression.
Over the next several posts, we'll be looking at depression in a variety of forms, as well as ways depression can affect your communication skills and abilities, even if you aren't the person who's suffering from it. We'll also examine how you can improve your ability to speak and to listen more clearly when depression is a part of the message.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Jul 21, 2010
What Type of ADD Do You Exhibit?
Summary: Did you know that ADD symptoms can suggest a specific type of ADD diagnosis? It's not as complicated as you might think. Take this brief quiz to learn more--about ADHD and you.
Have you ever been diagnosed with or thought you could pass for having ADD? Have you ever thought your spouse, romantic partner, children or even your co-workers might have it? If so, answer these questions--on your own or their behalf--to learn more:
(1) How frequently do you struggle with listening to someone else speak?
A. Often: Whether it's a formal presentation or 10-minute conversation, I'm often thinking of something else the entire time.
B. Sometimes--but mostly because I want to jump up and invite them to an adventure.
(2) Do you often lose your keys, wallet, ID or other important items?
A. Yes, even when I create a 'system' to track them.
B. No, this isn't much of a problem for me ... unless you count intentionally burying them in the snow just for a laugh!
(3) Have you ever regretted an action even as you were doing it--but not been able to stop?
A. No ... unless it was the act of interrupting someone who was speaking.
B. Yes! (Please don't make me say more.)
(4) Do you frequently overspend your budget on items you don't need, even duplicate items?
A. I have done this before, but it's not a common practice.
B. I do this all the time.
(5) Do you tell little white lies (or big ones) without even realizing you're doing it?
A. Only when the story I'm telling is really, really boring and I need to obviously exaggerate to make it more fun.
B. I think I may have a chronic problem with this.
(6) Is reading a chore for you?
A. I have a hard time paying attention to anything I read, watch or hear.
B. It can be--usually because I can't sit still for that long.
There are three basic subtypes of ADHD: The first is known as "Predominantly Inattentive Attention Deficit Disorder." The second, true ADHD, is called "Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive." "Combined" is the subset of ADD/ADHD that features symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. (A fourth subtype is known as "Not Otherwise Specified," meaning it doesn't fall easily into one of the other categories.) What category are you in? Let's look at your quiz scores:
If you answered "A" 4-6 times, your subcategory is likely inattentive. If you answered "B" 4-6 times, your subcategory is likely hyperactive-impulsive. Of course, if your answers were fifty-fifty, 3 "As" and 3 "Bs," you qualify as having combined ADD/ADHD. But if you had a hard time identifying with any of the answers, your ADD may fall into that fourth subtype--or you may not have it at all.
NOTE: This test is not meant as a substitute for a psychological evaluation or diagnosis. Its scoring system has not been ranked by any psychiatrist or psychological association. If you believe you do have ADHD, please seek professional, accredited help.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Have you ever been diagnosed with or thought you could pass for having ADD? Have you ever thought your spouse, romantic partner, children or even your co-workers might have it? If so, answer these questions--on your own or their behalf--to learn more:
(1) How frequently do you struggle with listening to someone else speak?
A. Often: Whether it's a formal presentation or 10-minute conversation, I'm often thinking of something else the entire time.
B. Sometimes--but mostly because I want to jump up and invite them to an adventure.
(2) Do you often lose your keys, wallet, ID or other important items?
A. Yes, even when I create a 'system' to track them.
B. No, this isn't much of a problem for me ... unless you count intentionally burying them in the snow just for a laugh!
(3) Have you ever regretted an action even as you were doing it--but not been able to stop?
A. No ... unless it was the act of interrupting someone who was speaking.
B. Yes! (Please don't make me say more.)
(4) Do you frequently overspend your budget on items you don't need, even duplicate items?
A. I have done this before, but it's not a common practice.
B. I do this all the time.
(5) Do you tell little white lies (or big ones) without even realizing you're doing it?
A. Only when the story I'm telling is really, really boring and I need to obviously exaggerate to make it more fun.
B. I think I may have a chronic problem with this.
(6) Is reading a chore for you?
A. I have a hard time paying attention to anything I read, watch or hear.
B. It can be--usually because I can't sit still for that long.
There are three basic subtypes of ADHD: The first is known as "Predominantly Inattentive Attention Deficit Disorder." The second, true ADHD, is called "Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive." "Combined" is the subset of ADD/ADHD that features symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. (A fourth subtype is known as "Not Otherwise Specified," meaning it doesn't fall easily into one of the other categories.) What category are you in? Let's look at your quiz scores:
If you answered "A" 4-6 times, your subcategory is likely inattentive. If you answered "B" 4-6 times, your subcategory is likely hyperactive-impulsive. Of course, if your answers were fifty-fifty, 3 "As" and 3 "Bs," you qualify as having combined ADD/ADHD. But if you had a hard time identifying with any of the answers, your ADD may fall into that fourth subtype--or you may not have it at all.
NOTE: This test is not meant as a substitute for a psychological evaluation or diagnosis. Its scoring system has not been ranked by any psychiatrist or psychological association. If you believe you do have ADHD, please seek professional, accredited help.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Jul 14, 2010
This Week's Brain Challenge: Attention Deficit Disorder
Summary: Starting off our series on overcoming brain challenges during communication, we address ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) in both adults and children. This overview provides some great tips and links.
Brain challenges can be categorized under almost every letter of the alphabet. Let's start off our series on the unique communications strategies needed for people with "challenged brains" at the top of the alphabet: with ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder.
Also sometimes called Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), ADD is prevalent in children and adults who have an obviously hard time sitting still for any lengthy period. Children "fidget" frequently when they're young. But after the age of 7, it's common for them to begin learning to sit still when appropriate, such as during school lessons or worship services. Adults also wiggle and squirm when their minds are on something else--extreme worries about their children in the next room, for example. However, if you are an adult (or the parent of a child) who cannot be still on any given day, you may consider learning more about ADD.
Those with the ADD diagnosis also face other challenges:
- lack of focus / inability to concentrate on one subject at a time;
- high energy levels;
- chronic disorganization.
What this looks like to the outsider is:
- distraction away from the conversation or task at hand, either by looking elsewhere or by regularly asking the speaker to repeat what's just been said; making simple mistakes in work;
- extreme "playfulness" (jumping, skipping, and general horsing around of a physical nature that can sometimes unwittingly violate another person's space boundaries); also loudness of voice;
- constantly losing items or forgetting dates and times and other important information.
As a business professional, parent or otherwise responsible adult, how do you overcome the extreme challenges of ADD to be successful in the world? How do you communicate with others appropriately--especially when you have a hard time even hearing them in the first place? Below are some practical tips for minimizing your own communications struggles with ADD.
(1) Be aware of yourself. The more you know your limitations, the more you're able to expand them. Later this week, we'll discuss some specific ways you can become more self-aware.
(2) Improve your concentration. There are a number of online games to help you on this front. Brain games are an excellent way to mitigate brain challenges. Check out this one from Lumosity that's designed to train your attention.
(3) Rely on external resources. You can stay organized better by using organizational tools. Most smart cell phones have alarm clock and calendar applications that come in very handy (pun intended) when you use them on the go wherever you are. If you are less electronically inclined, you can purchase a datebook and carry it with you to stay on track. Some styles even have pockets and pouches for important items like credit cards, keys, and whatever else you prize (but can't seem to find).
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Brain challenges can be categorized under almost every letter of the alphabet. Let's start off our series on the unique communications strategies needed for people with "challenged brains" at the top of the alphabet: with ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder.
Also sometimes called Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), ADD is prevalent in children and adults who have an obviously hard time sitting still for any lengthy period. Children "fidget" frequently when they're young. But after the age of 7, it's common for them to begin learning to sit still when appropriate, such as during school lessons or worship services. Adults also wiggle and squirm when their minds are on something else--extreme worries about their children in the next room, for example. However, if you are an adult (or the parent of a child) who cannot be still on any given day, you may consider learning more about ADD.
Those with the ADD diagnosis also face other challenges:
- lack of focus / inability to concentrate on one subject at a time;
- high energy levels;
- chronic disorganization.
What this looks like to the outsider is:
- distraction away from the conversation or task at hand, either by looking elsewhere or by regularly asking the speaker to repeat what's just been said; making simple mistakes in work;
- extreme "playfulness" (jumping, skipping, and general horsing around of a physical nature that can sometimes unwittingly violate another person's space boundaries); also loudness of voice;
- constantly losing items or forgetting dates and times and other important information.
As a business professional, parent or otherwise responsible adult, how do you overcome the extreme challenges of ADD to be successful in the world? How do you communicate with others appropriately--especially when you have a hard time even hearing them in the first place? Below are some practical tips for minimizing your own communications struggles with ADD.
(1) Be aware of yourself. The more you know your limitations, the more you're able to expand them. Later this week, we'll discuss some specific ways you can become more self-aware.
(2) Improve your concentration. There are a number of online games to help you on this front. Brain games are an excellent way to mitigate brain challenges. Check out this one from Lumosity that's designed to train your attention.
(3) Rely on external resources. You can stay organized better by using organizational tools. Most smart cell phones have alarm clock and calendar applications that come in very handy (pun intended) when you use them on the go wherever you are. If you are less electronically inclined, you can purchase a datebook and carry it with you to stay on track. Some styles even have pockets and pouches for important items like credit cards, keys, and whatever else you prize (but can't seem to find).
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Jun 10, 2010
Check out LiveScience.com!
Summary: For all you'd ever want to know about the brain (and more), check out this amazing site.
Yes, I've mentioned it before, but forgive me for saying again that I'm the author of an e-book called "Speak Your Truth: How to Say What You Mean to Get What You Want." It's actually part book and part workbook in that it contains more than a dozen different in-depth exercises to help you become more self-aware--and self-honest--so you can then be honest with the world around you, whether at home or at work. And if that weren't enough, I host a study group online where readers of the book can gather to put these exercises into practice and help each other grow.
We meet on Facebook. (Click here if you're interested in joining us!) And this week, we've been learning a little more about our brains. In doing so, I stumbled across an awesome site called LiveScience.com. Let me tell you why I like it so well:
- The writers and editors of the 6-year old site are a nice blend of journalists and scientists.
- The articles are set up in an interactive way--with videos, photo images, and places for you to comment on what you've learned.
- Subjects range from outer space, health and wellness, medical advancements, the human brain, technology, computers--to you name it!
- There are a lot of quizzes (like this one) to help you retain this new info.
- A whole series on the brain exists on the site--including (my favorite, of course) the Lumosity brain training games that improve memory, vocabulary, reaction time and more!
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Yes, I've mentioned it before, but forgive me for saying again that I'm the author of an e-book called "Speak Your Truth: How to Say What You Mean to Get What You Want." It's actually part book and part workbook in that it contains more than a dozen different in-depth exercises to help you become more self-aware--and self-honest--so you can then be honest with the world around you, whether at home or at work. And if that weren't enough, I host a study group online where readers of the book can gather to put these exercises into practice and help each other grow.
We meet on Facebook. (Click here if you're interested in joining us!) And this week, we've been learning a little more about our brains. In doing so, I stumbled across an awesome site called LiveScience.com. Let me tell you why I like it so well:
- The writers and editors of the 6-year old site are a nice blend of journalists and scientists.
- The articles are set up in an interactive way--with videos, photo images, and places for you to comment on what you've learned.
- Subjects range from outer space, health and wellness, medical advancements, the human brain, technology, computers--to you name it!
- There are a lot of quizzes (like this one) to help you retain this new info.
- A whole series on the brain exists on the site--including (my favorite, of course) the Lumosity brain training games that improve memory, vocabulary, reaction time and more!
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2010
Oct 16, 2009
WEEKLY UPDATE: Are You Too Stressed to Think?
Summary: This post is dedicated to my uncle who passed away this week. The preparations for his memorial service are a reminder that, in times of stress, one of the first things to be affected is the way we communicate. Both short-term and long-term stress impair the brain's cognitive function, making speaking clearly difficult. Follow the links below for more info. and tips on how to alleviate stress from your daily life.
This post is dedicated to the memory of my uncle, Steve Murray, who passed away this week. Right now, my extended family is bustling with preparations for this weekend's memorial services. My heart goes out to them.
In times of duress, the way we communicate with each other is one of the first things to be affected. The very first thing to feel the strain is the way we think, or our brain's cognitive function. This includes the ability to learn and collect information, process decisions, recall memories, and yes, speak. Just last year, researchers at the University of California, Irvine, conducted studies that determined it's not just long-term stress (such as grieving) that affects the brain. According to the study, short-term stress lasting as little as a few hours can seriously impair cognitive ability throughout that timeframe.
Certain hormones are released at the molecular level during bouts of acute stress, impairing the natural process by which the brain stores and collects memories. And if the brain's cognition is disrupted this way, it's no wonder that it's difficult (or even impossible) to communicate clearly when you're feeling stressed.
The primary emotional responses that tend to come out when we are able to finally find our voices and speak are confusion and anger. Many diseases can also create the type of stress—both long-term and short-term—that negatively affects communication. Diseases such as autism, bipolar disorder, and depression can regularly affect communication skills, but you may be surprised to learn that physical diseases, such as diabetes, can also affect verbal and cognitive functioning.
If you find yourself in a position where you're under stress—either short-term or on a regular basis—there are things you can do to alleviate it. (Both of the above links take you to informative articles by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen, a fellow writer and blogger who shares further info. on the subject and provides 8 tips for reducing workplace stress that can also be applied to your personal life.)
I'm sincerely proud of my family for the respect they continue to show each other, even in times of great pressure. And I want to take this time to say that they're all inspirations to me.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2009
This post is dedicated to the memory of my uncle, Steve Murray, who passed away this week. Right now, my extended family is bustling with preparations for this weekend's memorial services. My heart goes out to them.
In times of duress, the way we communicate with each other is one of the first things to be affected. The very first thing to feel the strain is the way we think, or our brain's cognitive function. This includes the ability to learn and collect information, process decisions, recall memories, and yes, speak. Just last year, researchers at the University of California, Irvine, conducted studies that determined it's not just long-term stress (such as grieving) that affects the brain. According to the study, short-term stress lasting as little as a few hours can seriously impair cognitive ability throughout that timeframe.
Certain hormones are released at the molecular level during bouts of acute stress, impairing the natural process by which the brain stores and collects memories. And if the brain's cognition is disrupted this way, it's no wonder that it's difficult (or even impossible) to communicate clearly when you're feeling stressed.
The primary emotional responses that tend to come out when we are able to finally find our voices and speak are confusion and anger. Many diseases can also create the type of stress—both long-term and short-term—that negatively affects communication. Diseases such as autism, bipolar disorder, and depression can regularly affect communication skills, but you may be surprised to learn that physical diseases, such as diabetes, can also affect verbal and cognitive functioning.
If you find yourself in a position where you're under stress—either short-term or on a regular basis—there are things you can do to alleviate it. (Both of the above links take you to informative articles by Laurie Pawlik-Kienlen, a fellow writer and blogger who shares further info. on the subject and provides 8 tips for reducing workplace stress that can also be applied to your personal life.)
I'm sincerely proud of my family for the respect they continue to show each other, even in times of great pressure. And I want to take this time to say that they're all inspirations to me.
© KiKi Productions, Inc. 2009
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