Have you paused recently to notice how and when you compare yourself to others? In this episode Emily and Alix pick through some of our favorite research around the comparison experience. Emily brings up an exciting study from Olympic Medalists, while Alix dives into some of the neurobiological evidence surrounding our stories of comparison, featuring the writing of author Deb Dana (2018). We get into how this impacts the creative process and how an informed and self-aware approach can help us all feel better when comparison shows up. 

After listening to this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the ways comparison shows up in our lives - both pros and cons  
• Learn about ways comparison affects happiness and satisfaction 
• Understand the role of disconnection vs connection when it comes to comparison
• Learn how to reframe comparison and address counterfactual thinking 

Make art with us:

• Website: makeartandfeelbetter.com 
• Instagram: @makeartandfeelbetter

Do you have a journaling practice? Are you interested in starting one? In this episode Emily and Alix recall times in their lives when journaling has really meant a lot. In this episode, you’ll gain insight into their current journaling practices, as well as recommendations for journaling outside of therapy sessions. Alix and Emily speak about why journaling helps people feel better and how it can help in your day to day life. 

After listening to this episode, you will be able to:

• Understand the impact of journaling as a way to clear your mind and decrease anxiety 
• Learn some creative ways to incorporate journaling into your day to day life 
• Understand how to use journaling to set intentions or create affirming statements 
• Learn about how journaling can be helpful in between therapy sessions 

Make art with us:

• Website: makeartandfeelbetter.com 
• Instagram: @makeartandfeelbetter

What feelings come up for you when you think about your friendships? Do you sometimes feel you need help navigating friendships in adulthood? In this episode, Alix and Emily explore healthy adult friendships, the evolution of friendships, and attachment styles. They also explore the transition of friendships when children are brought into the relationship. Through this brief conversation, we hope that you’ll be inspired to investigate the important friendships in your life - in what ways can you take radical responsibility? In what ways can you let unrealistic expectations go?

After listening to this episode, you will be able to

1.)    Understand how friends can help regulate our nervous systems 

2.)    Understand why managing expectations in relationships is important

3.)    Notice how attachment styles can influence how we show up in friendships, not just romantic relationships  

For more resources on art, healing, and creativity you can go to makeartandfeelbetter.com or on Instagram at instagram.com/makeartandfeelbetter.