Most of us would prefer not to be described as “mean” or “rude” by others. Sometimes, so much so, that it affects our ability to assert ourselves in an array of situations, whether it be in the workplace or social situations. It’s important to consider that an assertive interpersonal style of communication actually involves clearly expressing your opinions, feelings and preferences without violating the rights of others; sort of the opposite of being “mean” or “rude”. In fact, communicating assertively more often than not inspires positive outcomes rather than inciting conflict and misunderstandings. Here are three tips for being assertive in any situation.

Do you find you accept responsibility for a loved one’s emotions or actions? Are you constantly trying to please others? Do you neglect your own needs and have difficulty setting realistic personal boundaries? Do you often feel resentful, yet have difficulty stepping away from a dysfunctional relationship?

Sleep is often one of the most overlooked aspects of our lives. Sure, we all know that not getting enough of those precious Zzzz can make us grumpy but a lack of sleep can significantly affect us in more ways than we may realize. Studies show that a lack of sleep affects daily functioning, mood, physical health, concentration and memory, and much more. One in three of us suffers from poor sleep practices as a result of stress, computers and other technology, and negative work environments. Specifically, poor sleep has been linked to people who come home from work feeling blamed. Now, how much sleep do we need?

Rates of anxiety and depression among teens in the U.S. have been rising for years. In the latest results from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Behavior Survey, 32 percent of teens reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Two new books offer advice to parents and caregivers.

If you find yourself already established in your career but feel as if you would be better suited in a different profession, do not despair. Rich Karlgaard discusses how our talents, abilities, and interests continue to grow and develop as we mature. Karlgaard discusses how the pressure to achieve and decide one’s career trajectory at a very young age is an all too common phenomenon. Click here to find out more.

Procrastination has gotten all of us in trouble at some point or another, right? We eventually complete the task and inevitably feel the shame of our procrastination. However, that shame might not be because of our perceived laziness…it’s likely due to something else. Charlotte Lieberman explains what is going on.

The number of individuals experiencing symptoms of depression has increased over 50 percent in teens and young adults over the last decade. The amount of social media use has also significantly increased. Could the constant use of social media and devices in general be linked to worse mental health?

Ever heard “look good, feel good” at the gym? Likely, yes. You’ve probably also seen this more than enough on Instagram. While that phrase might not go away, it’s time to demonstrate what that the phrase really should be, “heart-rate high? Sad times goodbye.” Okay well maybe not that exact phrase.

Exercise has always been a key component of analyzing physical health but now, more than ever, we have an abundance of research showing that physical activity will not only improve our overall physical health, but also our mental health.

Self care. A popular phrase utilized to rationalize that trip to the nail salon or night out with friends to relax. An act done when one is feeling overwhelmed and stressed, and finally decides to indulge in that “me” time to release the tension. While these activities may assist to reinvigorate your mental and emotional health short term, a self care plan that is incorporated into your daily routine can yield long term positive effects.

After years of research studying thousands of couples, Dr. John Gottman found a pattern in the way couples fight. Gottman discovered four behaviors that were the most destructive when couples were in conflict. In fact, Gottman found that the married couples who enacted these four particular behaviors were the most likely to become separated or divorced. As a result, Gottman coined these behaviors the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse as they were the strongest predictors of the apocalypse of relationships…divorce. Avoiding the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse can be the start to improving how to deal with conflict in your relationship.