Mistaking extreme self reliance for individuality is a notion that feels distinctly Western. However, long before The Declaration of Independence, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Self Reliance”, or even Julius Cesar: humans have displayed a desire to be self reliant while also longing for community and connection. This juxtaposition is not easily mended. To navigate relationships,…

Every tidal wave withdraws. It’s all consuming for a moment, terrifying and unavoidable. A whiteout. Then quickly becomes an afterthought. Such behavior is also reflected in the behemoth moments of our lives. All consuming then seemingly all to quickly forgotten. Both the good and the bad.

With glamorized and edited glimpses into the lives of millions pumped out at numbing rates it’s not surprising that comparison has become a force more common than your neighborhood Spider-Man. Personally, I’m no stranger to comparison. I’ve seen how it can be used as a tool for good and bad. Can comparison really do any…

Why is it that when we make life all about ourselves we become miserable? And when we make life only about others, we find ourselves resentful and longing to be seen? Because humans are hardwired for connection Connection involves two and requires five and take. That balance, between self confidence and selflessness, is not formulaic…