Caroline Totah Overwhelm has two personalities. Sometimes, it announces itself loudly, making us feel bombarded, over-stimulated and panicky. It’s usually obvious when this overwhelm is present, and we usually enlist help to do something about it, or at least we rant, cry, scream, or do something to acknowledge its presence. But there is a sneaky side of overwhelm, … Read more
You head into the spare bedroom that has become a dumping ground, full of good intentions to clear it all out and reclaim your space. But as you pick up each item, something happens on the way to the donation box. A little voice says, “Maybe I need to keep this.” Soon you walk out, discouraged … Read more
For a long time, whenever I heard the word “productivity,” I equated it with fast-moving executives in crisp business suits, rushing to the next meeting while confirming the latest sales reports on their smart phones. I didn’t want to contribute to that lifestyle! Jamming more and more into the day was the problem, not the … Read more
I’ve written in the past about how important labels are. They help us figure out what we’re looking at and where to put things, so that we don’t have to think too much. Recently, I had an “aha” moment about another way that we use labels. We don’t just use them to identify our stuff, … Read more
Some people find it easier to let go of items if they know they’re being environmentally conscientious. I support those instincts, but here’s the flip side. I see a lot of bright, creative, talented people who have much to offer to their families, communities and the planet; but they aren’t fulfilling their potential because of … Read more
Very interesting article in the Summer 2014 issue of ADDitude Magazine, about Concentration Deficit Disorder, or CDD. I first learned about CDD a few years ago, when it was being referred to as Sluggish Cognitive Tempo—a terrible name! Dr. Russell Barkley and other researchers in the field of ADHD have theorized that some people who have been … Read more
A self-employed entrepreneur recently hired me for time management coaching. He juggles multiple projects and was specifically asking for help in breaking things down into smaller pieces, setting mini-deadlines, and “backwards planning” in an effort to avoid the last-minute panic. After a bit of discussion, it became evident that he actually works very productively and … Read more
I frequently get asked about stopping the influx of junk mail. Here are some resources to remove yourself from those mailing lists, and a few other tips for not getting added to new ones. CatalogChoice: More time consuming, but more individualized. Search for specific companies, non-profits and political organizations from which you don’t wish to receive … Read more
“How will you reward yourself?” This is what I ask clients when we’re discussing habit change. Rewards have been very helpful to me in my own struggles to change habits, and I’ve been surprised by the rewards that are the most effective. They have nothing to do with money, travel, massages or chocolate. Instead, I … Read more
A recent podcast on StuffYouShouldKnow.com explored whether objects or experiences make us happier. Research indicates that the happiness people feel after acquiring a new object fades after time. This isn’t surprising, but it got me to wondering, after the happiness fades, what’s left? And is that next feeling that comes along a good variable for … Read more