From the Blog

Writings on Well-Being Dr. Rick Hanson

Love the World

Love the World

Humanity has great power for good and ill. As the earth heats up, as species go extinct and resources decline, it is critically important that a fourth major motivation guide our thoughts, words, and above all, deeds: Love the world.

read more

Get these articles delivered directly to your inbox every week.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Newsletter Selection*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Say Thanks

Say Thanks

Say Thanks – it’s a small moment with big ripples. What do you feel when someone thanks you for something? For a comment in a meeting, a task done at home, an extra step taken, an encouraging word.

Love Your Neighbor

Love Your Neighbor

Kindness to others is enlightened self-interest. Compassion and kindness expresses an inner freedom. 

Bless

Bless

To blissful is to see what is tender and beautiful, and wish well. Look for good things in others. Know what the act and attitude of blessing feel like, and take in the experience to call upon it in the future.

Drop The “Shoulds”

Drop The “Shoulds”

When healthy inclinations become “shoulds” “musts” then there is a big problem. Consider a situation that bothers you, and find a deeper “should” that’s related to an experience you “must” have or avoid. Face the should, ask this question: “Is it really true?”

Do Freely

Do Freely

There’s a way to relate to the endless To Do list that’s freer and less burdened. When we “do freely” we refresh in having a sense of choice.

Be Helpful

Be Helpful

Do not underestimate the impact of a small deed. We all know that the needs in this world are great. And so are the opportunities to make a big difference to the ones we touch.

Come to Center

Come to Center

When feeling scattered, collect and concentrate your thoughts and feelings. Return to the reliable rewards of feeling already full. Savor pleasure, move, lift your eyes to the horizon, enjoy art, feel the core of your body, and come into the present moment.

Beware of Anger

Beware of Anger

Anger can alert you to threats, but also harm your health and relationships. In small and passing quantities, anger can be like medicine, but in large and lasting quantities it poisons the mind and relationships.