Denise Olesky - Growing for Today

02/21/2025

Creativity can reduce anxiety.

02/21/2025

Continually trying to make other people happy and seeking outside approval can be exhausting. While it may originate from good intentions, many people feel depleted when it becomes a way of life.

Seek advice and help from people you care about. Afterall, the people in your life typically want good things for you. Gather up all they have to say, process it a bit - and then - make the decision that is best for you based on your own needs and goals. You know you best, so the decisions that you make for you will be the right ones and will fit you the best.

02/19/2025

I'm honored to be included in this article by hercampus.com that discusses ways to ease flight anxiety.

Flight anxiety is common, but it shouldn't stop you from booking that trip. Here are eight flight anxiety tips to help you cope during your travels.

12/04/2024

12/03/2024

Beat the winter blues!

Somehow, when we turned back the clocks by one hour, it actually felt like five hours ☹️ The evening hours suddenly feel very long and it's also getting cold so we're finding ourselves indoors more often than we'd like.

For some people, their moods start to decline around this time. Now I'm not saying that winter will be your new favorite season, but leaning into winter festivities a bit can actually help.

Really? Really.

Creating an environment at home that you enjoy can actually boost your mood a bit and help you beat the winter blues. Think about anything that you enjoy about the winter. A warm cup of cocoa maybe? Holiday lights perhaps? Lighting candles? Create a list and participate in these activities all winter. Create an environment that is warm, cozy, and fun, and celebrate it all season long.

Here are some ideas to help get you started:

Wear comfy, warm clothes at home and at work. Tuck some fuzzy socks in your boots to wear outside and feel cozy all day.

Plan a get-together with friends to get some cocoa.

Hang lights in your home to create a festive place.

Read a book with a warm fuzzy blanket and a candle.

Take a drive to look at festive lights.

Have a movie marathon at home with family.

Plan a warm vacation to take a small break and recharge from the cold.

12/02/2024

I statements are always helpful to express your feelings. They are a great way to say what you need without blaming or shaming.

In a relationship, words can uplift us or deeply wound us. When the person who means the most to you says something that hurts deeply, instead of retreating into silence or anger, try this.

12/02/2024

This Thanksgiving, let’s embrace the 5:1 magic ratio from the Gottman Institute. For every moment of tension or conflict, aim for five positive interactions. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, expressing gratitude, or simply being present, these positive moments strengthen the bonds that make our relationships last.

12/02/2024

Racing thoughts can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Writing them down can help clear your head so you feel calmer through the day.

11/26/2024

Self-care is especially important over the holidays. Take time to take care of yourself.

Exhibiting self-care is critical when it comes to taking care of your mental health. Here are some ways you can show some self-love throughout the week!

11/20/2024

Gaslighting can be so gradual and covert that a target doesn't even realize it’s happening until their sense of self is already damaged. Here are some of the most common tactics gaslighters use.

05/05/2024

Here's an oldie but a goodie to kick off mental health awareness month.

When we have our own sense of identity, we are better able to make decisions and navigate life with more ease. We are able to include friends and partners in our lives who are emotionally healthy and with whom we can share ourselves in a healthy way. Learning about ourselves and developing a solid sense of identity can help us feel more fulfilled and happy because we are better able to guide our lives to what we desire.

Growing up in an abusive, neglectful, or otherwise unhealthy environment may stunt the development of self-identity. Here’s how to connect to who you are.