Author Archives: msw blog
Self-compassion
Self-compassion allows us to look honestly at our lives without judgment. It gives us the emotional safety to acknowledge what isn’t working, while also recognizing that struggle is part of being human. When we meet ourselves with warmth instead of … Continue reading
safety
When someone keeps explaining themselves, pause. They’re not trying to convince you. They’re trying to feel safe. Safe from being misread. Safe from being dismissed. Safe from being blamed. That habit didn’t come from nowhere. It came from not being … Continue reading
friendship
I just found out that my friend reads ALL of my substack essays! And not just reads them, but can literally quote sentences from them! I know that‘s not a big deal to a lot of people, but to know … Continue reading
Craftsmanship
It is possible to both be focused on small things that matter while having an eye on the “big picture” whatever that may mean to you. Those small things then fall into place just right. Taking pride in the details … Continue reading
Employment: A clean slate
In “New 2026 minimum wage, laws take effect” (Jan. 1, Northwest), The Seattle Times described several newly effective state laws. House Bill 1747 should be added to the list. This expands the 2018 Fair Chance Act that stops employers from … Continue reading
Real Life of an MSW 