CHILL LAB 超正常研究室 – 關注青少年的精神健康,讓參加者覺察及表達當下的情緒並調適自己

Trust yourself can be better

Life is not always a smooth road. We all face challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. During these times, many people question whether they can truly become better. However, believe this: everyone has unlimited potential. We can improve if we believe in ourselves and put in the effort.

Change is a gradual process. When we recognize our shortcomings and identify areas for improvement, we’ve already taken the first step. Psychologist Carol Dweck introduced the concept of a “Growth Mindset,” which suggests that abilities are not fixed but can be developed through effort and learning. This means that even if we feel inadequate in some areas, it doesn’t mean we’ll never improve. We unlock the possibility of change by being open to learning and trying.

Setting realistic goals is also key. Don’t be afraid to start small because each step is crucial to success. For example, if you want to enhance your knowledge, spend around 15 minutes a day learning something new. Another example is incorporating simple exercises into your daily routine to improve your health. These seemingly small efforts, over time, can lead to significant change. Seeing even tiny progress can bring a sense of accomplishment and boost your confidence.

We cannot change the past but choose how to shape the future. Believe in yourself. Start now. Make the change. Become better!

Take care of yourself before take care of others

In our daily life, do you often consider others and neglect your own?

There are many pressures in our lives, including studies, work, financial, interpersonal relationships. In terms of family, parents need to take care of their children, and the elderly also need someone to take care of them. However, as a caregiver is not easy at all. We have to take care of their daily life and also their mental health. When we often focus on others, we usually neglect to take care of ourselves.

But in fact, taking care of yourself is the most important.

If we often neglect our health and feelings, we will feel stressed. When we are troubled, it will be more difficult to take care of those around us.

Some may ask, how can we take care of ourselves?

Cultivating your own interests is an important part. We can only feel happy when we do the things we love. Therefore, in our busy lives, I hope everyone can take time to focus on themselves and achieve a balance between work and life.

In addition, we can also listen to more music, do more exercises, and get closer to nature, which can help us relax in our daily lives.

I hope we all can learn to love ourselves before we love others from today~

Cherish every moment to make life more fulfilling and meaningful.

From a young age, our lives have always followed the passage of time. Time is like an invisible framework that tells us what to do at every moment. For example, in school, when the bell rings, we know it’s time for class, recess, or lunch. These markers of time guide our daily lives. However, no matter how fast we go, time keeps flowing, which often makes us feel stressed.

Sometimes, we become so busy with work or study that we overlook the people around us. Imagine finishing a week of work, spending every day working overtime, and having no time to spend with family. One weekend, you finally carve out some time to go on a picnic with your family. Sitting on the grass in the park, watching the children play and hearing their laughter, you realize how precious these ordinary moments are. You might even bring homemade sandwiches and fruits, enjoying this simple pleasure.

Remember, time cannot be controlled, and we can never catch up to it. Instead of desperately rushing, it’s better to change our perspective and enjoy time with family and friends. For instance, on the weekend, why not invite a few friends to go hiking, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of nature? Sharing a simple lunch at the top of the mountain and chatting about life’s little joys feels far more enjoyable than a busy workday.

Additionally, you can establish small habits during the week to help balance speed and slowness. For example, spend ten minutes every morning to calm your mind, drink a cup of tea, look at the scenery outside, or listen to soft music to relax. After work, try jogging or taking a walk instead of immediately going home to watch TV; this can help release the day’s stress and enhance your physical and mental health.

Cherish every moment to make life more fulfilling and meaningful. This way, we can truly enjoy life, appreciate the value of time, and find our own balance amid busy urban living.

You are not truly happy, your smile is just the protective color you wear

In today’s society, smile seems to have become a must-have protective color for everyone. We often see others smiling, but we don’t know the emotions behind them. In fact, many people may appear happy on the outside, but may actually be facing loneliness and anxiety inside.

Psychological research shows that hiding emotions for a long time can cause psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. When we dare not face our own negative emotions, they will hide deep in our hearts, causing accumulation of stress. Therefore, it is important to recognize and accept your emotions. Learning to express your feelings not only relieves inner stress, but also promotes authentic communication with others.

How to get rid of this “protective color”? We can try to self-reflect and understand our true emotional needs. You can also share your inner feelings with trusted friends or professionals to seek support and understanding. Also, developing healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, creating art, or meditating, are all ways to release your emotions.

True happiness comes from self-acceptance and understanding. True happiness can be found when we have the courage to face the dark side of our hearts and learn to relate to the world with our true selves. Remember, a smile should not be a cover-up, but an expression of sincerity. Let us learn to be our true selves together and embrace our true emotions!

Being Strong Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Cry

Have you ever heard the saying, “Strong people don’t cry”? This statement equates crying with weakness, leading people to hold back tears and bury their emotions deep inside. However, true strength isn’t about completely suppressing our emotions but about understanding how to face and handle various feelings.
Psychological research shows that crying is an important emotional release mechanism for humans. When we cry, our body releases various chemicals, including oxytocin and endorphins, which help relieve physical and mental tension and provide emotional comfort. At the same time, tears can carry away stress hormones, helping us regain our sense of calm.
Tough people know when to allow themselves to be vulnerable and understand the importance of accepting their emotions. Crying isn’t about avoiding or giving up; it’s a process of rest and healing. Just as the sky becomes clearer after rain, timely crying can help us unload our burdens, reorganize our thoughts, and continue facing life’s challenges.
Therefore, don’t be afraid to let tears flow when feeling sad or stressed. Letting yourself cry and giving yourself a moment to breathe is an important step toward mental well-being.

Don’t care about the views and evaluations from others

In daily life, we are often influenced by the words and evaluations of others, which can lead to anxiety and unease. However, there are several effective methods to help you care less about others’ opinions and enhance your self-identity.

First, self-reflection is key to building confidence. Taking the time to understand your values and goals can help you gain a clearer understanding of yourself. You might try keeping a journal to record your thoughts, which can aid in exploring your inner self. During this process, ask yourself questions such as, “What do I truly want?” or “What are my strengths and weaknesses?” Through this reflection, you will better understand your uniqueness, thereby reducing the impact of external evaluations on you.

Secondly, setting boundaries is crucial. Learning to reject unnecessary criticism can help protect your mental health. When others evaluate you, try to express your differing opinion lightly and shift your focus back to your own goals. For example, you could say, “I understand you have your perspective, but I tend to lean towards this approach.” This not only minimizes external distractions but also allows you to concentrate on your inner voice and maintain your confidence.

Finally, focus on your growth. Direct your attention towards personal progress and achievements rather than others’ opinions. Set small goals and strive to achieve them, such as learning a new skill or participating in an activity. Each time you accomplish a goal, your self-confidence will grow, allowing you to concentrate more on your own path rather than others’ evaluations. Regularly reviewing your achievements can remind you of your progress and motivate you to keep moving forward.

In summary, self-reflection, setting boundaries, and focusing on growth are methods that can help you be more at ease with being yourself and live a happier life. Remember, the most important thing is to stay true to your feelings and beliefs, as this is how you can truly live an extraordinary life!

Love yourself on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is a romantic day that is often used to celebrate love and intimacy. But in addition to sharing sweet moments with your partner, the day can also be an opportunity to love and grow in yourself. Here are a few ways to love yourself on Valentine’s Day:

 

  1. Alone time

Arrange a day to yourself and do something you like, such as reading, watching a movie, or going to a small spa. During this time, let go of the stress of work and enjoy your own company.

 

  1. Gourmet feast

When preparing a sumptuous meal, whether you cook it yourself or enjoy it out, the focus is on enjoying the meal. Choose your favorite dish and pair it with a glass of wine to satisfy your taste buds.

 

  1. Self-reflection

Use this day to think about your life and goals, and write down your mood, thoughts, or future plans. Not only will this help you clarify your thoughts, but it will also help you understand yourself better.

 

  1. Make small wishes come true

Fulfill a small wish on this day, such as buying a long-awaited item or attending an interesting workshop. Allow yourself to feel accomplished and happy.

 

  1. Exercise your body and mind

Join a yoga or fitness class to relax your body and mind. Exercise releases endorphins, which help lift your mood and make you feel more fulfilled.

 

  1. Write a letter to yourself

Write a letter to your future self and share your current feelings, dreams, and goals. This is not only a way of self-affirmation, but also a way to look back on your own growth one day in the future.

 

  1. A grateful heart

Make a list of things or people you are grateful for, no matter how big or small. This kind of practice can make you appreciate the good things in life more and improve your happiness.

 

Valentine’s Day is not only a day to celebrate love, but also a time to love and value yourself. No matter which way you choose, the point is to feel happy and content with yourself so you can love others better. Let us give ourselves a pampering on this special day!

Six Steps to Resolve Conflicts

On the third day of the Lunar New Year (Chi San), it’s a good time to reflect and resolve interpersonal conflicts. Here are six detailed steps, along with everyday examples, to help you effectively handle disputes:

1. Calm Down

When a conflict arises, emotions can often cloud judgment. It’s important to temporarily calm down and avoid emotional reactions. When you feel angry or frustrated, take a few deep breaths, count to ten, or briefly leave the scene to engage in relaxing activities like walking or listening to music to help yourself regain composure.

Example: If you have a disagreement with a colleague over work tasks and feel emotionally charged, you can tell them, “I need some time to calm down; let’s discuss this later.” This way, you can avoid emotional reactions that could lead to more unnecessary conflicts.

2. Clarify the Issues

Identifying the core issue of the dispute is crucial. You can ask yourself several questions:

  • What is the specific reason for this conflict?
  • What are my needs and feelings?
  • What are the other person’s position and needs?

Specific Approach: Write down the main points in your mind or on paper. This will help keep the focus during subsequent discussions.

3. Open Dialogue

Choose an appropriate time and environment for the conversation, ensuring both parties have enough time and space to communicate. Avoid discussing sensitive topics when emotions are high or in public settings. Use phrases like “I feel” to express your feelings and listen to the other person’s thoughts.

Example: If you and a friend disagree on travel plans, you could meet at a quiet café and say, “I feel we have some differences in our travel plans, but I want to hear your thoughts.” This can promote understanding and prevent emotions from escalating.

4. Find Common Ground

During the discussion, emphasize shared goals and look for solutions that both parties can accept.

Example: When you and a colleague have different opinions on how to approach a task, you can identify a common goal, such as improving team efficiency, and then collaboratively explore how to achieve that goal. This can reduce opposing emotions and foster cooperation.

5. Develop a Solution

Based on the consensus reached, clarify each person’s roles and actions, and set a practical timeline to ensure both parties feel accountable.

Example: In a close relationship, if there’s a dispute over financial management, you can decide to create a joint budget plan and agree to review expenses and income monthly. This ensures that both parties can accept the solution.

6. Follow Up and Reflect

After resolving the issue, regularly check in on progress and have follow-up discussions with the other person to confirm each other’s feelings and thoughts. Learn from the experience to enhance your ability to handle similar situations in the future.

By following these six steps, you can more effectively resolve conflicts, promote harmonious relationships, and strengthen every connection. So even on the third day of the Lunar New Year, you won’t have to worry about arguments!

Thinking too much, forget the original intention

I wonder if you have ever been “thinking too much”? When we are facing major matters, we certainly need to think over and over, but for some minor matters, did we spend too much time for thinking but still find that it is difficult to make the decision?

 

In fact, insisting on perfectionism may lead to overthinking, and usually these are nonconstructive thoughts. When we tend to spend a lot of time about thinking and making decisions for things that are not worthwhile, we may become indecisive or find it difficult to make appropriate analyses, and even tend to be irritable, depressed or anxious. Most of these thoughts are repetitive and make people tired.

 

To avoid this situation, we can clarify the principles to judge which things are important and we should spend time on. This can avoid us from getting annoyed by minor things.

 

We can have high standards, but we should also learn to accept imperfection as no one is perfect. We should set feasible goals and adjust our expectations appropriately.

 

Let us stop unnecessary and repetitive thinking, and spend our time on meaningful things.

How to overcome with the New Year depression

It’s a new year again! Will you look forward to the future, or look back to the past and become depressed? In fact, at this special moment, it is easy to remind us the goals that we have not achieved in the past year, and tend to be depressed and even resist to the new year.

 

When we feel depressed, we can try to slow down the pace first, and don’t give too much pressure to ourselves. Even if we find that we have many goals we have not yet achieved, don’t be too disappointed. We can readjust our expectations and goals, and achieve step by step.

 

We can also try to distract ourselves by doing something that we are interested in, such as listening to some relaxing songs, painting or doing more exercises, which can help to improve our emotions.

 

Feeling depressed during the New Year may be caused by weather changes, which can easily lead to emotional instability and anxiety. Therefore, we can try to spend more time under the sun and feel the sunshine, which may help to improve our mood.

 

Depression during the New Year usually only remains for a short period. Adjusting your plan appropriately will help you to get through the depression period. Let us look forward to the new year and have a good start.