These excerpts from the Moment of Clarity series help to illuminate what makes us ready to change. What did it take for these individuals to act on their dreams – was it hard? Easy? Obvious? More hidden? What was the moment when they knew, and what characteristics allowed them to make a change from that [...]

I hate New Year’s resolutions – they feel like too much pressure. Sure, there are plenty of things I’d like to improve in my life. I just can’t stand the feeling of have to. If I set artificial goals for myself, I usually end up failing, and then I feel bad. I’ve decided it’s more [...]

Sanity calms, but madness is more interesting. —John Russell It’s been a year since I started Insanely Serene, and I have to ask, am I any saner or more serene? Are you, my readers? This year has offered challenges to my peace of mind. I took a risk and left a full-time job to become [...]

A moment might actually be a series of moments, or gradual realizations that crystallize into clarity. This week’s story is from Jen Smith, describing her process of recognizing unhappiness and taking steps to bring more joy into her life. Jen is a life coach and personal development blogger from the U.K. who writes on topics [...]

se·ren·i·ty, –noun, 1. the state or quality of being serene, calm, or tranquil; sereneness. —Random House Dictionary Remember Charles M. Schultz’s book, Happiness is a Warm Puppy? It was one of my childhood favorites. The image of Snoopy dancing ecstatically with snout held high is burned into my memory. While I can’t yet say that [...]

Some surprising truths that are counterintuitive but once faced, make a lot of sense for personal development and self-growth

Who can help you overcome self-hatred? Why, your own true self – just give yourself a chance!

Recognizing self-hatred and its symptoms is the first step toward making a change and stepping toward self-compassion

Can you be your own biggest fan? How to head up your own fan club.

How I found my life partner by letting go of having to have one