Val Walker's Blog: 400 Friends but Who Can I Call?

We can break through social anxiety and isolation by sharing awe and wonder with others who are wowed by the same things we are.

Rumination, maladaptive daydreaming, and narcissism.

Being ghosted can hurt us enough that we may become vulnerable to impulsive and compulsive online behaviors and maladaptive daydreaming.

To recover from the sting of rudeness, turn to the solace of open-minded people, open places, and open time.

In cynical and testy times, unexpected moments of surprise, wonder, and joy build resilience—as long as we stay open enough to notice.

In a distracting, cynical world of ever-breaking news, we can lose our focus and attention to what really matters. But a few minutes gazing at the sky can switch us back on track.

What happens when loved ones are suffering financial distress due to a serious illness? We can help them get through it and mitigate the toxic effects on their well-being.

It is our willingness to be wowed—not so much the thing that wows us—that we can claim as a source of strength. Letting go of expectations allows for surprises of awe and wonder.

When we’re captivated by something greater than ourselves in a moment of awe and wonder, we see each other in a new light.

What can derail a conversation, especially a political or emotionally charged discussion? Being preachy, pushy, and presumptuous.