"The most important step a [person] can take. It’s not the first one, is it? It’s the next one. Always the next step."
— Brandon Sanderson, Oathbringer

As a therapist—and a fan of reading and fantasy — I often find inspiration in unexpected places. One of my favorite authors, Brandon Sanderson, wrote those words in Oathbringer, and they’ve stuck with me ever since. When life feels overwhelming, the most powerful thing we can do isn’t to figure everything out at once—it’s simply to take the next step.

That’s exactly where SMART goals come in.

Whether you're trying to build better habits, reduce stress, or gain clarity around your next move, SMART goals can help turn vague intentions into practical steps. This framework isn’t just for therapy or work—it’s for anyone who wants to make meaningful progress in everyday life.

What Are SMART Goals?

SMART is an acronym that stands for:

• S – Specific: Define your goal clearly. What exactly are you trying to do?

• M – Measurable: How will you track your progress?

• A – Achievable: Is this goal realistic for you right now?

• R – Relevant: Does it matter to you? Why now?

• T – Time-bound: When do you want to complete it?

Communication is Key: Navigating Change Together

• Why it matters: Transitioning into marriage often involves learning how to communicate more openly and effectively. It’s about being vulnerable, expressing needs, and listening actively.

• Tips:

  • Create a habit of checking in with each other regularly about your relationship.

  • Use “I” statements instead of “You” statements to express feelings without sounding accusatory.

  • Learn how to argue constructively—disagreeing is normal, but how you handle it can strengthen the relationship.

In recent years, it’s become increasingly common for people to find themselves navigating the dating scene in their 30s. Whether they’re newly single after a breakup or divorce, or simply haven't yet met the right person, more people than ever are exploring love and connection later than previous generations. While this shift is encouraging in many ways, it also brings unique challenges—especially when it comes to online dating, which has become the go-to platform for many singles.

Whether one or both partners identify as neurodivergent, managing everyday tasks can sometimes feel overwhelming. Are you struggling to navigate household chores together? You’re not alone—many couples face similar challenges. From varying processing styles to communication preferences, these differences can impact your relationship dynamics. But with the right strategies, you can transform these obstacles into opportunities for growth and collaboration. Let’s explore how to create a more harmonious home together!

In today’s interconnected world, multicultural relationships are becoming increasingly common. Couples from diverse backgrounds bring a wealth of traditions, values, and experiences to their relationships. This diversity can be a source of strength, fostering creativity and understanding as partners learn from one another. However, these relationships can also come with unique challenges. Drawing from my personal experiences and professional insights, here are some thoughts on how couples can navigate the complexities of cultural differences.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in daily routines and distractions, losing sight of what truly matters to us. Understanding and connecting with our core values can be a powerful way to navigate life’s challenges and make meaningful choices. As a therapist specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I often see how clarity around values can transform individuals’ lives. In this post, we’ll explore why knowing your values is essential, how the values mountain metaphor can guide you toward achieving your life goals, and how ACT can help you align your life with what truly matters.