Stories to fuel your mind

How to Stop Being So Mean to Yourself

A gentle guide to dialing down the negative self-talk and showing yourself a little more grace.

Pocket Editors

Read when you’ve got time to spare.

Tips to let go of your regrets and feel more deserving of your own love. Plus, why you should talk to yourself like you talk to a friend.

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How to Make Friends With Your Inner Critic

Try to quiet the harsh, judging voice by naming it, offering counterexamples and staying mindful.

How to Forgive Yourself

Finding it hard to move past a hurtful mistake? With these steps toward repair and renewal, you can do and feel better.

Why Are We So Critical of Ourselves After Meeting Someone New? Self-Protection.

One study discovers the “liking gap” — the difference between how we view others we’re meeting for the first time, and the way we think they’re seeing us.

Regret Can Be All-Consuming—a Neurobehavioral Scientist Explains How to Overcome It

Remorse and sorrow from a bad choice can haunt you for years, even decades. But there are evidence-based ways to move past regret.

Stop Being So Hard on Yourself at Work

Being hard on yourself is not only ineffective, but it is also a hard pattern to break. How can you take a more balanced, emotionally equanimous approach to your performance?

Feeling Embarrassed? Here’s The Right Way To Handle It

Unchecked, embarrassment can lead to feelings of deep shame and guilt. But the feeling is often oversized and easier to handle than you think. Here’s how.

How to Stop Being So Damn Angry at Yourself

No matter what you did—or think you did—peace is possible.

You’re Not So Bad: The Case Against Self Improvement

Why optimizing isn’t always the best path to contentment.

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