Dr. Amy Vail

These are challenging times. Despite the number of people on the planet, people feel isolated. Despite the resources available on our planet, scarcity is prevalent, many people are afraid of the future and feel unstable. The media is overtly (and covertly) using fear to manipulate our thoughts and emotions. Depression and anxiety levels are rising. Much is out of our control. However, no matter what is happening around us, we can consciously decide what type of impact we wa...nt to have on other people and our planet. Ask yourself, do you want to help or hinder? Do you want to be agreeable and kind, or unpleasant and harsh? Uncle Butters and I prefer to be friendly and contribute goodwill. Thank you, anonymous bike path artist, for your art, and the smiles you added to my day. Your message led to unexpected and positive social connections. We shared a few minutes of gratitude for you and expressed our happy surprise at seeing your message. What has been the most positive, impactful, and unexpected event in your life so far? What made it so meaningful to you? How will you pay this forward? ~Dr. Amy Vail~ See more

When you feel overwhelmed, discouraged, or don't know where to start, remember doing something small is better than doing nothing at all. ~Dr. Amy Vail~

As a therapist, it is common to hear people express disillusionment with their relationships and the world. They describe being sad, overwhelmed, and often consumed with worry about the future. The political climate is increasingly divisive, and malicious and rude behavior seems to be the new pervasive normal. People are distressed by changes in their lives due to the pandemic. Stress levels are high. People are tired and feel depleted. When people are tired and stressed, th...ey act out. If you want better relationships and a better life, ask yourself, what tone have you become accustomed to using with people? Do you build people up with your attention and praise or use sarcasm and indifference to knock them down? Recognize how you treat people. Are your actions and words aligned with the values you want to see in the world and your life? Are you respectful, honest, trustworthy, and loyal? In healthy relationships, these virtues are essential. Their presence helps establish a foundation for calm and stability and increases the likelihood that meaningful connection, satisfaction, and happiness will flourish. What do you contribute to your relationships? If you are unsure, pay attention, and it will become evident. As you give, so shall you receive. ~Dr. Amy Vail~ See more

Ego or spirit. My will or thy will. Force or power. Choose wisely. When we pay attention and notice what is leading us to make decisions, we have the ability to instantly course correct. How do you identify the difference? Dr. Amy Vail

Healthy relationships include mutual respect and consideration for each other. If you find yourself begging someone to spend time with you, you are forcing the connection and not treating yourself with respect. When people do not show themselves respect, they show other people the treatment they will allow. There is power in knowing your self-worth. Using force is exhausting and leads to depletion. When we recognize where we are wasting our energy with force, we can reclaim our power. Healthy relationships based on respect exist and are worth the wait. Do you agree? ~Dr. Amy Vail~