Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Are you an Empath?

 Over the holiday a friend of mine suggested that I shared some characteristics of empaths and since I didn't know what an Empath was I went looking. Here is what I found. For the record I do share a few of the following traits but I do not consider myself an empath. So my question is are you an Empath?

Empaths are often quiet and can take a while to handle a compliment for they're more inclined to point out another's positive attributes. They are highly expressive in all areas of emotional connection, and talk openly, and, at times, quite frankly in respect to themselves. They may have few problems talking about their feelings.

However, they can be the exact opposite: reclusive and apparently unresponsive at the best of times. They may even appear ignorant. Some are very good at blocking out others and that's not always a bad thing, at least for the learning empath struggling with a barrage of emotions from others, as well as their own feelings.

Empaths have a tendency to openly feel what is outside of them more so than what is inside of them. This can cause empaths to ignore their own needs. In general an empath is non-violent, non-aggressive and leans more towards being the peacemaker. Any area filled with disharmony creates an uncomfortable feeling in an empath. If they find themselves in the middle of a confrontation, they will endeavor to settle the situation as quickly as possible, if not avoid it all together. If any harsh words are expressed in defending themselves, they will likely resent their lack of self-control, and have a preference to peacefully resolve the problem quickly.

Empaths are sensitive to TV, videos, movies, news and broadcasts. Violence or emotional dramas depicting shocking scenes of physical or emotional pain inflicted on adults, children or animals can bring an empath easily to tears. At times, they may feel physically ill or choke back the tears. Some empaths will struggle to comprehend any such cruelty, and will have grave difficulty in expressing themselves in the face of another's ignorance, closed-mindedness and obvious lack of compassion. They simply cannot justify the suffering they feel and see.

People of all walks of life and animals are attracted to the warmth and genuine compassion of empaths. Regardless of whether others are aware of one being empathic, people are drawn to them as a metal object is to a magnet! They are like beacons of light.

Even complete strangers find it easy to talk to empaths about the most personal things, and before they know it, they have poured out their hearts and souls without intending to do so consciously. It is as though on a sub-conscious level that person knows instinctively that empaths would listen with compassionate understanding.

Empaths are the listeners of life. Empaths are often problem solvers, thinkers, and studiers of many things. As far as empaths are concerned, where a problem is, so too is the answer. They often will search until they find one--if only for peace of mind

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Diagnosing ADHD

Taken from The Real Age posted November 25, 201, this article caught my eye after a friend of mine who works with special needs children, said to me "you must have ADHD because you take on so many projects". So I thought about it, dismised his comment but remembered it when I read this document. Interesting reading
Diagnosing adult ADHD is a difficult science, because it overlaps with other mental health conditions, making diagnosis tricky. Also, much of the diagnostic research to date has been done on children, and the diagnostic features that doctors use for children often take different form in adults. The only way to know for sure if you have adult ADHD is to work closely with your doctor on assessing your symptoms and medical history.
Do you think you might have adult ADHD? Answer the following questions. Do you often:
  • Have great difficulty wrapping up the loose ends on projects?
  • Have trouble staying organized?
  • Miss appointments or obligations?
  • Procrastinate on big projects that require thought?
  • Have trouble sitting still?
  • Struggle with restless energy?


If you answered yes to four or more of these questions, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor about adult ADHD.

By the way, I answered no to all of the questions except Have trouble sitting still and that I attribute to a hip that one day soon may have to be replaced.

Monday, February 6, 2012

Important to begin with feeling

Think about the last time you began something important. Are you thinking about it?

Good - now ask yourself how you began it.
Did you make small, tentative first steps? Or did you jump in with gusto?
Promise yourself that the next time you kick off something important in your life, you'll start with a ceremony where you declare your feelings.
The reason to do this is simple, we need a certain amount of ceremony in our lives to mark important occasions. Our societies and groups that we belong to have the usual ceremonies that are standard practice for new beginnings or endings (Christenings, Graduations, Weddings, Funerals, etc.).
We, however, can and should, create our own ceremonies to mark the beginning of a new chapter in our life. These may be very private ceremonies or they may be very public, but we do or should hold them.

I am a big believer in public declaration so that those for whom we care, are able to support us as we move forward. What is your ceremony to celebrate the new in your life?

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Make a difference.

How would doing this support your vision for your life and your world?

There are hundreds of ways, in all shapes and sizes, to make the world, your community, your neighborhood a better place. The collective wisdom, talent, and passion of those over fifty is astonishing. The world needs us. So, why not start a foundation, join an animal rescue team, mentor a child, teach a class, run for mayor, or revitalize your town square.

Let me tell you about Amy. She knits every spare minute in her day. She obviously loves knitting and is very specific about what she knits, which are tiny caps. Twice a year Amy donates the caps she’s knitted to her local hospital’s neo-natal unit. She knows her caps make a difference to the babies and their families and she feels great about it.

What organization, human issue, community project or problem speaks to your heart?

Given your talents and skills and time, what type of commitment would be a great fit?