Van Le Counseling

08/31/2025

06/25/2025

11/28/2024

04/01/2024

It's been a while since I shared an Action for Happiness Calendar, mostly just because I forget that not everyone knows they exist! They are free, available in lots of languages, and come out each month with bite-sized daily activities and prompts for improving your wellbeing.

This month the theme is ACTIVE APRIL with a big focus on physical health. What's that got to do with mental health and wellbeing? I'm glad you asked:

Prioritizing physical wellbeing through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and attentive care of the body is essential for fostering good mental health and overall wellbeing. Scientific research consistently demonstrates the interconnectedness of the body and mind, highlighting how physical activity releases endorphins, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness and reduce stress.

A nutritious diet rich in essential nutrients provides the fuel necessary for optimal brain function, enhancing mood stability and cognitive performance. Moreover, practicing self-care by attending to physical needs fosters a sense of self-worth and confidence, nurturing a positive self-image and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Ultimately, investing in physical wellbeing lays a solid foundation for holistic health, empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives marked by vitality, resilience, and emotional equilibrium.

You can download your printable copy here: https://actionforhappiness.org/calendar

03/10/2024

The fundamental attribution error is the attribution of the source of behaviour to the character and personality of a person above the consideration of context. It's sometimes described as over-attributing causes to disposition over situation.

In a classic example, if a driver swerves in front of you suddenly, it's easy to attribute the cause of the behaviour to the driver being a jerk, i.e. to their character. What we may not see is that the driver is late to pick up their kids, was distracted by a challenging conversation they just had at work, and they're worried they've gone the wrong way and are driving an unfamiliar car.

If a colleague is late to meet us, we might infer that the person is lazy or disrespectful when, in fact, they may have been held up by a traffic accident, been on the phone with a sick relative, and have had trouble sleeping lately. If we are late for a meeting, well, then it's probably for all sorts of good reasons outside our control.

Like confirmation bias, the fundamental attribution error is a big one that can easily colour our interactions with others without us being aware of it.

Some ways to minimise it include:
- Remember that what we see is just a tiny fraction of any other person's life and that we don't see the complete picture.
- Minimise judgment, particularly around character and personality.
- Avoid jumping to conclusions.
- Where appropriate, ask if anything is bothering others.
- Build empathy for others as you would for yourself.
- Reflect on the positive things others do.

01/07/2024

8 Lessons from "Before the Coffee Gets Cold: A Novel" by Toshikazu Kawaguchi:

1. Cherish Every Moment: The novel emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing each moment. The time travel cafe serves as a reminder that opportunities can be missed, and past mistakes may not be easily rectified.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly: The story highlights the importance of open and honest communication in relationships. Many of the characters regret not expressing their true feelings or resolving past conflicts, leading to missed opportunities and lingering heartache.

3. Forgive Yourself and Others: The novel underscores the importance of forgiveness, both for oneself and others. Holding onto grudges and regrets can prevent individuals from moving forward and experiencing true happiness.

4. Embracing Change and Uncertainty: The time travel cafe represents the inevitability of change and the unpredictable nature of life. The characters learn to embrace the unknown and adapt to unforeseen circumstances, finding new opportunities and growth amidst the uncertainty.

5. Appreciating the Present: The novel encourages readers to focus on the present moment and appreciate the beauty and simplicity of everyday life. By cherishing simple joys and ordinary interactions, individuals can find greater fulfillment and contentment.

6. Understanding the Limits of Time Travel: While the cafe offers a unique opportunity to revisit the past, it also highlights the limitations of time travel. Changing the past is not possible, and individuals must learn to accept the consequences of their actions and find peace with their present circumstances.

7. The Power of Connection and Belonging: The cafe serves as a haven for characters seeking connection and belonging. Through shared experiences and heartfelt conversations, individuals find solace and support, reminding us of the importance of meaningful relationships.

8. Living Life with Intention: By contemplating the passage of time and the limitations of our existence, the novel encourages readers to live life with intention and purpose. By pursuing our dreams and making the most of each moment, we can create a life filled with meaning and fulfillment.

Bonus Lesson: The novel encourages readers to face their fears and regrets. By confronting the past, individuals can gain closure, heal from past wounds, and move forward with greater courage and resilience.

BOOK: https://amzn.to/3uVb4qp

You can also get the audio book for free using the same link, as far as you are registered on the Audible Platform.

09/11/2023

There are many ways to engage and help save lives. Learn more.

06/03/2023

I'm sharing my favorite quotes on Instagram 👉 https://bit.ly/3mJmK5B

04/02/2023

The ability to express personal choice and agency is fundamental to human wellbeing regardless of what age we are.

Graphic Credit: from https://northstarpaths.com