Many difficulties encountered in adulthood are not the result of insufficient effort, insight, or self-discipline. Rather, they emerge from behavioral and emotional patterns established early in life that were once adaptive but were never revised. These patterns persist because the nervous system does not update automatically with age, context, or
In 1966, sociologist William Petersen introduced the term model minority to describe Japanese Americans who, despite historical discrimination and internment during World War II, demonstrated notable socioeconomic achievement. Although the term appeared complimentary, it functioned primarily as a political narrative. It implied that success was attainable through discipline, conformity, and
From the outside, everything looks fine. You’re showing up to work, you’re keeping your relationships intact, and checking off milestones. Maybe you’re even excelling! But inside? There’s a quiet, heavy ache. A numbness. A thought that creeps in when you’re driving home or lying awake at night:“What’s the point?” Or,
