Dirk Stemper

66450493762f2220671669 - From harsh self-criticism to self-compassion

From harsh self-criticism to self-compassion

Self-compassion – the path to inner peace Imagine this: You make a small mistake at work and suddenly a wave of devastating self-criticism washes over you. Does this sound familiar? You’re not alone – studies show that up to 80% of people regularly suffer from destructive self-criticism. But there is a better way: self-compassion. In

From harsh self-criticism to self-compassion Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - Birdsong and Language: Uncovering the Surprising Connection

Birdsong and Language: Uncovering the Surprising Connection

How Does Birdsong Reveal the Secrets of Human Language? Introduction Many assume birdsong is purely instinctual, but research reveals its complexity. Like human language, birdsong involves syntax—rules for organizing sounds into meaningful patterns. Songbirds compose melodies that follow structured sequences, proving that their communication is both learned and intentional. A robin’s morning melody or a

Birdsong and Language: Uncovering the Surprising Connection Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - Mathematical thinking instead of decision paralysis

Mathematical thinking instead of decision paralysis

From maths phobia to excellent data analysis Some leaders find themselves in an embarrassing situation: they have a fear of maths. It undermines self-confidence, clouds decision-making and leads to missed opportunities. It’s not about numbers – it’s about the right mindset. Can you master mathematical thinking and redefine your leadership? Why mathematical literacy is essential

Mathematical thinking instead of decision paralysis Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - Johatsu - Vanishing People

Johatsu – Vanishing People

The Phenomenon of Johatsu: A Critical Analysis of Voluntary Social Disappearance in a Neoliberal Japanese Society The deliberate vanishing of individuals from Japanese society—a phenomenon known as johatsu (失踪)—presents a complex intersection of sociocultural dynamics, economic determinants, and infrastructural mechanisms that facilitate voluntary disappearance at an unprecedented scale within post-industrial societies. This phenomenon warrants careful

Johatsu – Vanishing People Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - Can Social Media Support Identity in Dementia

Can Social Media Support Identity in Dementia

How Social Media May Help Some People with Dementia Navigate Their Identity Introduction Can social media really help someone with dementia navigate their identity? The answer is complicated. While social media platforms offer unique tools for expression and connection, their usefulness depends heavily on the dementia stage, individual capacity, and caregiver involvement. For many, these

Can Social Media Support Identity in Dementia Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - The Hidden Cost of Calling Your Child an Orchid or Dandelion

The Hidden Cost of Calling Your Child an Orchid or Dandelion

A Critical Look at the Dandelion-Orchid Dichotomy: Labels That Shape Lives Introduction Could calling your child an ‘orchid’ or ‘dandelion’ do lasting harm? While the dandelion-orchid dichotomy aims to explain why children respond differently to their environments, it risks creating limiting labels that shape their self-beliefs and behavior. Understanding children’s temperaments is essential—but labeling them

The Hidden Cost of Calling Your Child an Orchid or Dandelion Read More »

66450493762f2220671669 - Detecting Deception: Practical Steps for Sharpening Your Intuition

Detecting Deception: Practical Steps for Sharpening Your Intuition

How Reading Bodily Cues Can Help Detect Deception Did you know that your body reacts to lies before your brain catches on? Studies show that tuning into physical cues—like your heart racing or your stomach tightening—can give you an edge in spotting deception. Detecting dishonesty isn’t just a skill for detectives. It’s a valuable tool

Detecting Deception: Practical Steps for Sharpening Your Intuition Read More »