Breathe

Myth of the finishing line

Myth of the finishing line

Can you remember what happened the last time you managed to get to ‘inbox zero’, reached the bottom of the washing basket or ticked off every task on your daily to-do list? How did it feel? And how long did that sense of accomplishment last? Chances are, you soon noticed the emails arriving again, the …

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To intervene or not to intervene

To intervene or not to intervene?

If you see a friend or loved one on the brink of a big life decision that you’re confident isn’t right for them, it’s hard to know what to do with your feelings. Whether it’s a relocation, new partner, career change, business venture, relationship break-up or something else, your knowledge of their preferences, values and …

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Night calls

Night calls

Have you ever woken from a dream and found yourself puzzling over an encounter with an animal? The details might be vivid and strong, or you might recall only hazy fragments, but you’re certain that during your slumber you were visited by a beloved pet or perhaps a more mysterious creature whose presence felt unclear. …

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For the love of gongoozling

For the love of gongoozling

Canals are an often overlooked – yet deeply significant – part of the cultural landscape. They pass through urban sprawl and peaceful countryside, providing an opportunity to pause, reflect and embrace the unhurried rhythms of life. Once bustling arteries that connected industrial towns and cities during their commercial peak, canals worldwide have undergone a remarkable …

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Pick up a pen

Pick up a pen

Poetry. Perhaps you’ve thought about writing it but were too shy to try. Or you tried but were put off by the idea of rules or rhyming. If so, you’re not alone. The prospect of composing a poem can strike fear into the heart of anyone who thought they’d left the subject behind at the …

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Two-way thing

We all know exercise has many benefits – it can build strength, prevent health problems and boost your energy levels, to name just a few – but it also requires a healthy dose of motivation. One way of increasing your enthusiasm and commitment to working out is to buddy up with someone and use them …

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Get the balance right

Whether you’re married, cohabiting with a sibling, flatmate or romantic partner, or have a genuinely close friend, you might be dependent on someone else to a greater or lesser extent – and they might be dependent on you. Perhaps, day-to-day, you’re always available to them – and vice versa – in a way you’re not …

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Stranger things

The phrase ‘networking event’ is enough to put the frighteners on many people. It conjures up images of polyester suits, fake smiles and hovering by the pastries table, feeling both horribly self-conscious and totally invisible. Let’s face it, talking to strangers at the best of times can be hard. Networking, as a definition, means not …

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Natural high

‘Let’s go fly a kite!’ urges a rejuvenated Mr Banks at the end of the 1964 film Mary Poppins, after he’s dismissed from his job and heads for the park. Whether on a windswept hilltop, city playground or on the beach with a fresh sea breeze, it can make the heart soar to see a …

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Footsteps to free thought

Do you recognise the frustration of grinding to a halt in the middle of a project, when inspiration dries up and you just feel stuck? It might be a creative endeavour, like a painting or piece of writing, or an essay or presentation at work. You’re staring at a blank screen and nothing’s flowing. One …

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