Triggers are often framed as personal sensitivities, something we alone need to manage. And while self-awareness is key, it’s also true that triggers are rarely random. They often stem from…
Author: Ella Joseph
It’s cool to lose your cool: When expectations let you down
My summer is unusually busy this year—and not in the fun, “beach and road trips” kind of way. No, I’ve been stuck in a chair for hours on end, every single day. If I learned anything…
Defying stereotypes of ageism
As time passes, day after day, society begins labeling us—shifting us from one category to the next. Then one day we may find ourselves in our mid-60s, with words like “old” and…
Pain and the conflict of values
We’re often told to “stay true to yourself.” But honestly, what does that really mean? And how do we even begin to figure it out? Here’s the perfect example. We just celebrated the 4th of July…
The roadblocks to new opportunities
Lately, I’ve been moving through a stretch that’s been full of roadblocks. It showed up at work through a project but honestly, the project is just a mirror. What I really noticed was…
It’s not that important… yet
I wasn’t going to write about this. I really wasn’t. Because… well, after all, it’s not that important. Not important like world peace or life-altering decisions. Not even important like finishing that…
From then to now: The neurodivergent way of being
I remember when I was a child, my father often told me that I was a Type A personality. I was active, curious, talkative, intense. That’s just how I was and no one tried to “fix” me…
When did my lilac come and go?
You won’t have to ask me what my favorite flower is — you could guess by the lilacs I’ve planted on both main sides of my house. All different kinds, blooming at different times…
Watch your step: The “fun” side of language
“Watch your step” seems clear enough. But what if it’s a metaphor? Or maybe not? Is it a warning about a wet floor, or a gentle nudge to be careful with what we say or do…
From self-help to research through the lens of self-determination theory
Some of you may have come across my “Call for Research Participants,” and some of you were quite surprised by it. I get it. Studying psychology at this stage in my life might not…