I have created this blog as a place to share what I have learned through years of academic research, as well as from my professional and personal experiences. I consider each day an opportunity to examine my experiences, celebrate success, and find methods that will help others advance their knowledge and achievements. In this space, I share my words and those of scholars, artists, colleagues, and friends. I also share scientific research to support a variety of methods that will help you excel in your career and personal life. Science has proven that no two people can share the same experience in the same way.

Moreover, each person will have their perspective filtered from their beliefs and previous experiences. Knowing this, you will develop your own perspective and learning experience from this blog, which is exactly what makes the 7.5 billion people on this wonderful planet amazingly different. And, though there may be times we want others to think like us, the diverse perspectives of others are an invitation to see things differently. Wayne Dyer once said, "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." And let's add, "If what you're doing isn't working, change it" (Phil McGraw).

Thank you for taking this journey with me. I wish you endless success and happiness.

A few quick facts about me: I am a huge fan of dogs. I could spend every day, every hour, with my four-legged friends. I love academia and reading textbooks. I have been known to take a textbook on vacation for casual reading. I also like writing books; I have written two and currently working on another. My children's book is about a little dog named Lois who helps children learn their primary and secondary colors https://www.amazon.com/Lois-Magic-Crown-Jeff-Houghtaling/dp/1450536247 This is a good segue to share; I am an accomplished painter, but maintain this craft as a personal meditative practice. I had the privilege of teaching mural painting to middle schoolers for a few years. I am a certified meditation teacher guided by DavidJi. Lastly, I am also an avid exerciser and believe wellness involves several disciplines: nutrition, movement, meditation, and self-compassion. I believe in gratitude and with this, I want to share, I am thankful you are reading this. I believe in the responsibility and impact of what I am offering and will value the welfare and vulnerability of those who join this adventure. I honor your trust and time; again, I am grateful you are here.