Dr. Jan’s LifeWise Words of Wisdom

When life turns up the pressure—whether in your career, your relationships, or your family—you need more than surface-level advice. You need tools that work. 

These blogs deliver clear, science-backed strategies to help you think sharply, stay grounded, and take meaningful action. 

Whether you’re working to reconnect with an estranged child, strengthen your marriage under pressure, or navigate a pivotal career moment without losing your edge, you’ll find actionable insights here. 

No fluff. No toxic positivity. Just real talk about growth, resilience, and lasting change.

Search to find more articles on EXECUTIVE LIFE COACHING, FAMILY ESTRANGEMENT COACHING, COUPLES COACHING, AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY.

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How to Have a Breakthrough Without Going Through a Breakdown

Ever wondered why therapy can feel unsettling yet rewarding? This article delves into the neuroscience of change, explaining why discomfort often precedes breakthroughs. Learn about the RAIN technique and how it can help you navigate personal growth without overwhelming stress. Discover how to embrace change and achieve meaningful transformations.

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Mom Guilt? How to Give Yourself — and Your Loved Ones — a Break.

Mom guilt: a universal yet rarely discussed challenge of modern motherhood. This article explores the evolutionary roots of maternal guilt, its impact on marriages, and its manifestation across cultures. Learn strategies to balance your role as a mother with your personal identity, and discover how overcoming guilt can strengthen family relationships.

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Estranged: When Holidays Hurt

Holidays can be particularly painful for parents estranged from adult children. Dr. Jan Anderson provides compassionate insight into this 'silent epidemic,' offering strategies to cope, maintain hope, and work towards reconnection. Learn how to navigate this challenging time while fostering personal growth and resilience.

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Empathy 101 for A-Holes:  A Love Story

Follow one couple's journey from disconnection to understanding as Dr. Jan Anderson guides a self-proclaimed 'A-hole' to discover his innate capacity for empathy. Learn practical strategies for improving communication, deepening emotional connections, and reigniting love in your relationship - all while staying true to yourself.

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Dr. Jan's Memes: A Quick Jolt of Media Therapy.

Dr. Jan Anderson revolutionizes therapy with her popular memes, offering 'quick jolts of media therapy' for daily life. These visual nuggets of wisdom provide practical tips and life hacks in a format that's short, powerful, and memorable. Explore how these 'small moments of visual therapy' can transform your perspective and improve your mental wellbeing.

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The Upside of a Self-Absorbed Mother

In this candid reflection, Dr. Jan Anderson uncovers the surprising benefits of growing up with a self-absorbed mother. Through poignant anecdotes and professional insights, she illustrates how challenging childhood experiences can cultivate resilience, independence, and self-awareness. Discover how embracing the complexities of difficult family dynamics can lead to personal growth and emotional healing.

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Crushing It in Your Career: When Being Smart Isn't Enough

Discover why being smart and talented isn't always enough to land your dream job. Dr. Jan Anderson shares insights on the often-overlooked skill of interpersonal intelligence and how it can be the game-changer in your career. Learn practical strategies to enhance your professional presence, ace interviews, and stand out in a competitive job market.

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How to Ask for Help When You're a Perfectionist

Perfectionists, take heart! Dr. Jan Anderson offers a candid look at her own struggle with perfectionism while writing a book, revealing valuable strategies for seeking help without compromising your self-image. Learn how to reframe 'asking for help' as a strength, not a weakness, and discover face-saving techniques that make reaching out for support more palatable. This insightful guide shows how even the most accomplished professionals can benefit from counseling and coaching.

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Tired of Being Triggered?  How to Not Lose It with the People You Love.  

Navigating emotional triggers in relationships can feel like walking through a minefield. Dr. Jan Anderson offers a therapist's perspective on staying calm when tensions run high. Learn counterintuitive yet effective strategies to manage your emotions, from embracing feelings to practicing self-compassion. Discover how these techniques can transform difficult conversations and strengthen your relationships, even in the most challenging times.

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The Argument Antidote

Think some conflicts are unsolvable? Think again. Dr. Jan Anderson shares insights from relationship experts on how to navigate perpetual disagreements without damaging your partnership. Learn practical, counterintuitive techniques to address issues constructively, enhance communication, and strengthen your bond. Discover why love alone isn't enough and how mastering these skills can transform your relationship, even when facing seemingly insurmountable differences.

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Suicidal Thoughts? They're Not a Good Predictor of Suicide

Suicidal thoughts are more common than you might think, but they're not always the best predictor of suicide attempts. Dr. Jan Anderson delves into the nuances of suicide prevention, sharing professional insights and personal experiences. Learn why connection trumps technique in crisis intervention, how to approach someone in distress, and the surprising role of the 'inner critic' in suicidal ideation. This compassionate exploration offers a fresh perspective on supporting those struggling with thoughts of suicide.

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The Problem with Relationships: We Crave Connection. That Seriously Freaks Us Out. Here’s How to Handle It.

We crave connection, yet fear vulnerability - it's the ultimate relationship paradox. Dr. Jan Anderson delves into this common dilemma, offering professional insights on why we struggle and how to overcome it. Discover the 'universal law of relationships' and learn practical strategies to balance emotional openness with personal strength. Whether you're dealing with family estrangement or seeking deeper connections, this guide provides a fresh perspective on building healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

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My Father, Money and Me

Our relationship with money often has deep roots in childhood experiences. Dr. Jan Anderson offers a candid look at how her father's approach to finances shaped her own attitudes, and how mindfulness meditation unveiled these unconscious patterns. Journey through her personal and professional insights on financial resilience, forgiveness, and breaking generational cycles. This introspective piece provides valuable perspectives on understanding and transforming our complex relationships with money.

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When Mother’s Day Hurts

Mother's Day can be a heart-wrenching time for mothers estranged from their adult children. Dr. Jan Anderson delves into this 'silent epidemic,' offering profound insights on why traditional reconciliation methods often backfire and how to navigate this painful journey. Learn counterintuitive yet effective strategies for coping, from backing off to honoring other mothers, and discover how to maintain hope while working towards possible reconnection. This compassionate guide provides a lifeline for those grappling with the complex emotions of parent-child estrangement.

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Boost Your Coping Skills with Both/And Thinking: The Pandemic and Beyond

In a world of polarizing viewpoints, both/and thinking offers a powerful alternative. Dr. Jan Anderson delves into this transformative cognitive approach, sharing insights from personal experiences and mentors. Discover how expanding your 'container' to hold conflicting ideas can lead to better decision-making, improved relationships, and enhanced resilience in times of crisis. Whether you're navigating personal conflicts or global uncertainties, this guide provides practical strategies to cultivate a more nuanced and adaptable mindset.

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It Starts with a Secret: Anatomy of a Breakup

Relationship breakdowns often begin with a secret decision. Dr. Jan Anderson delves into the psychology behind turning away from a partner and the impact of unshared choices. Discover why transparency isn't always the answer and learn effective strategies for maintaining connection. This insightful guide offers a fresh perspective on relationship dynamics, exploring how to navigate difficult conversations, avoid common pitfalls, and cultivate the emotional intelligence needed for lasting partnerships.

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The Easiest Way to Change Something About Yourself

Struggling with personal dilemmas? Dr. Jan Anderson reveals surprising insights on how we can change faster and more easily than previously thought. Discover the three key ingredients that make profound personal transformation possible in months, not years. This guide challenges traditional views on personality traits, offering hope and practical strategies for those seeking meaningful change in their lives, relationships, and personal habits.

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THE DIVORCE DILEMMA: How Do I Know Whether To Stay Or Go?

Contemplating divorce? You're not alone in this challenging crossroads. Dr. Jan Anderson, drawing from professional expertise and personal experience, offers compassionate guidance on assessing your relationship, understanding the impact on children, and charting a path forward - whether that means revitalizing your marriage or navigating a 'good divorce.' Learn how to find clarity and rebuild happiness, no matter which road you choose.

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Three Ways To Immediately Connect With People And Stay Present Longer

In our fast-paced world, the ability to genuinely connect with others is more valuable than ever. Dr. Jan Anderson draws from her experience counseling caregivers to offer three powerful, yet simple techniques for forging instant connections and maintaining a compassionate presence. Discover how making eye contact, receiving before giving, and cultivating self-awareness can transform your interactions and provide meaningful support to those around you.

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