Get real-world advice on your toughest life questions
“I have allergies to perfume and other fragrances. How can I navigate this scented world and escape the fragrance?” – Connie from Federicton, New Brunswick Answer: For those of us with allergies, many scents can trigger a reaction: perfume, incense, and candles, to name a few. We live in a very social world and it is difficult to carry a …
I am struggling to find a social life outside of work, especially with the social distancing going on. Where do I start? – Allysen in Chapel Hill, SC Answer: Now more than ever, we need to come together and re-frame how we interact. Social distancing is here to stay for a while, so staying social and connected requires creative thinking, …
“Hey Lynn, I’ve seen in your recent post, and in the newsletters, that you have been coping with the COVID-19 pandemic by making masks. Would you share how this is helping with the associated stress? And maybe some tips on how to make the masks?” – Izzy in Milpitas, California Answer: Doing something constructive and taking action always improves my …
“I’m feeling incredibly stressed right now. I am afraid of me or my family getting or spreading COVID-19. I’m following all the guidelines to stay healthy and keep others safe, but what can I do to reduce stress and anxiety?” – Hayley, Lake Charles, Louisiana Answer: Truth be told, many of us have seen our stress and anxiety mount over …
My mother has the most obnoxious barking dog. The dog barks nonstop at a high pitch. It’s impossible to have a conversation with her in person or on the phone. I know she loves the dog, but what can I do? I want to have my mom talks back! – Leesa in Bar Harbor, Maine Answer: Throughout our lives we …
I’m having a hard time managing all the things I want and need to do every day. How can I juggle a full-time job, keeping my home clean, regular exercise, making myself some healthy meals, and the hobbies I’m passionate about, all while maintaining relationships with my friends? There just doesn’t seem to be enough time in the day! – …
I’m new to the area and therefore my apartment building. I’m nervous about meeting my neighbors. How do I break the ice? – Connie in Palmer, AK Answer: Lots of people feel nervous about meeting new people. Neighbors, co-workers, gym members, or anyone who participates in a shared activity are all waiting for the other person to make the first …
I recently moved to a new area where I don’t know anyone. I’ve always been shy, but I want to make some new friends. How and where can I meet new people? How do I develop friendships now that I’m out of school? – Riley in Tucson, AZ Answer: Moving to a new area is packed with emotions, from excitement …
I feel bad admitting it, but I’m jealous of my friends’ lives. It seems that everyone I know is getting their dream job, traveling to a dazzling country, getting married, or otherwise living an exciting, happy life. I feel like I don’t measure up. How can I get over my envy and be happy with what I do have? – …
The holidays are just around the corner, and I’m stressed about the political conversations that will certainly come up. My family has very strong political opinions, and they’re very different from my own. I hate engaging in these conversations and would rather avoid them altogether. How can I politely tune my family out when politics come up? – Andi in …
I’ve always loved pets, and have a cat and dog. My boyfriend of 2 years wants to move in with me… but he’s allergic to animals. I can’t imagine giving up my furry babies. How can we live together despite his allergies? – Janie in Norfolk, NE Answer: Janie, I’m so glad to hear your commitment to your pets loud …
My job is mundane and I’m struggling to find purpose in my life. What are your ideas? – Roberta in Loveland, CO Answer: I know that having a mundane job can really seem soul-crushing and cause you to feel lost. Sometimes, your job may feel so mundane that you can’t think of anything that would make it more interesting. Other …
I’m single – and happily so – but it seems that no one else can understand how I’m content without a partner. Family members are constantly asking when I’ll get a boyfriend, and friends try to set me up on dates or get me to use dating apps. How can I make it clear to my family and friends that …
I’ve been dating my boyfriend for almost a year, and I’m ready for him to meet my family. The problem is, my boyfriend works in construction, and I’m in a family of lawyers and doctors. I worry they’ll look down on him, or worse, won’t think we should even be together. How should I handle this so everyone gets along …
Ever since I graduated from college, I’ve felt less and less certain about what I’m doing with my life. I don’t know what kind of career I want, what kind of relationship I should be in, or how I want to live my life. It feels like a quarter-life crisis. How can I figure out who I am and what …
When should I move in with my significant other? – Erin in King of Prussia, PA Answer: Erin, major life decisions should be made, whenever possible, from a position of tranquility. This means that you’ve had time to consider all of the things that will result and be impacted by the decision, and how your life could potentially change based …
I’m entering my 30s, and I’m starting to feel the pressure to have children. My husband wants kids – soon – and I don’t know how long I’m going to keep putting it off. I want children, but I just don’t feel ready yet. Help! – Heather in Sherman Oaks, CA Answer: All big decisions should be approached with care, …
My husband wants us to take a vacation without our young children. I’m having a hard time with this – I can’t imagine leaving my kids behind while we travel somewhere exciting. My parents always took us kids with them, and some of my happiest memories are of our family vacations. My friends are all encouraging me to do it, …
My mom is struggling to make decisions since my father died. Do I make the decisions for her, or should I focus on giving her emotional support? – Ricki in Kirkland, Washington Answer: Lynn: Ricki, I am going through the same situation right now, so I totally get your dilemma. In my case, it may be a bit easier as …
I am surrounded by critical and negative people. Friends and family alike. How do I say “no” and break down the barriers to find a happier place? – Gabriella in Milford, Connecticut Answer: Gabriella, do your friends and family seem negative because they are venting? Are you their safe sounding board? That may be one thing to consider. And while …