In a culture that rewards workaholics and perfectionists, it is easy to think that if we exercise more self-control and delay gratification a little longer before taking that break, then everything will be okay. Many of us just end up suffering from mental and physical exhaustion. Of course, workaholics and perfectionists are on a continuum, like every personality trait or behavior, and the more severe levels can lead to a whole range of emotional disturbances,1 such as anxiety, relationship issues, depression, substance abuse, and/or eating disorders.
We develop flexibility, adaptability, and social connectedness by opening our minds and emotions.
Lately, I have come to love the concept of radical openness. Radical openness means developing a passion for doing the opposite of what one currently does. It means going toward things we would usually avoid or are uncomfortable with. It means challenging yourself. It means being open to learning and always staying curious.
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