Hi Aloha, I came for the German Shepherds and saw this post. You remind me of my wife, she loves GSDs and would totally have an awesome pack like yours if she could (we only have two, for now...) This post, however, reminds me of me. I too want to fix me so I can be happy. I'm fed up with myself and am finally putting down my foot to work on my issues. One of my therapists recommended "The Feeling Good Handbook" by David Burns, MD and I'm slowly making my way through it. What I've read so far has been pretty helpful as a way to process my thoughts and feelings in a structured and methodical way as guided by the book. It won't replace a good therapist, I'm sure, but might be a another good tool for you to have. I wish you the best of luck!
Nonviolent Communication! A straightforward formula: 1) “when you (specific action, non-evaluative), 2) I feel (emotion, not thought or sensation, 3) “because I need/value”, 4) “Would you be to willing to (concrete, specific action)?” 5) Check in to make sure they accurately heard what you’re trying to say. Example:
“When you point out how this issue has already been discussed, I feel angry and hurt because I really value doing well at my job and need to make sure I understand this topic. Would you be willing to help me come up with other solutions so I can understand this topic while making sure we use our meeting time efficiently?” I’m really over-simplifying this strategy and I’d recommend reading the book or listening to the audiobook (I chose the latter) to fully understand and apply it’s concepts. It’s definitely helped avoid misunderstandings and helped get my needs met.