Waleed Mahmud Tariq
Stories (34)
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I am Proud of Myself!
It is no secret that we live in a world that thrives on recognition and applause. From social media likes to workplace accolades, we have created an environment where external validation has become the yardstick for self-worth. Even parents who want to express their love and pride for their children commonly say, “I am proud of you,” as a way of acknowledging their achievements. And in this simple phrase lies a trap that can shape their understanding of self-worth, motivation, and autonomy.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
How would YOU feel in a Cage?
Ludovico Einaudi — Broken Wings x WaterBear — YouTube This morning, I found a small bird on my balcony, gasping for breath. It had climbed up seeking respite from the relentless summer heat, only to succumb to thirst and exhaustion. This tragic event stirred a deep agitation within me, amplifying a persistent unease about our treatment of animals.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
A New Way to Understand our Freedom of Choice
We often simplify the question of freewill to a binary choice: do we have it or not? This perspective, however, misses the complexity of human autonomy. Instead of asking a simple yes or no, we should ask: How much autonomy and freewill do we actually possess?
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
What Is Cognitive Dissonance?
We often find ourselves standing at the crossroads of conflicting beliefs and actions, experiencing a piercing internal disconnect and discomfort. This phenomenon, known as cognitive dissonance, is more than just a psychological curiosity; it’s a fundamental aspect of our human experience, shaping our decisions, beliefs, and ultimately, our lives.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
Why are we more Depressed than Ever?
Globally, an estimated 5% of adults suffer from depression. — W.H.O I often find myself staring out the window, thinking about the seemingly paradoxical nature of our times. We live in an era of unparalleled connectivity, technological marvels, and endless opportunities, yet more people than ever are grappling with the dark abyss of depression. As someone who has personally walked through the tumultuous waters of major depression and anxiety, I feel compelled to explore this question:
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
Is Mindfulness Just a Buzzword?
Mindfulness has become a buzzword in our postmodern, hyper-connected world. Even I repeatedly use the word ‘mindful’ in my writings in different contexts. From meditation apps to wellness retreats, the practice promises a path to inner peace amidst the chaos. But what lies beneath the surface of this practice? Are there any scientific principles that make mindfulness more than just a fleeting trend?
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
Why Can’t I Stop Biting My Nails?
As someone who has battled with major depression and anxiety, I understand the struggle of managing compulsive behaviors like nail-biting. Nail-biting, medically known as onychophagia, is a common yet often misunderstood habit. For many, like me, it is more than a simple bad habit; it is a coping mechanism for underlying anxiety. The compulsive nature of nail-biting can feel uncontrollable and perplexing. In this article, we look into the psychological underpinnings of nail-biting, its connection to anxiety, and explore empirical basis on managing it.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I)
Quality sleep isn’t a luxury but a necessity, essential for our cognitive function, emotional stability, and physical health. Yet, for many of us, securing the rest we need is a nightly struggle. The consequences are critical as insufficient sleep is linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and cognitive decline. However, hope is never lost.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
Why We Crave Virtual Validation?
In the age of social media, it seems the gazes of others increasingly co-author our lives. We project our thoughts and experiences onto the screens of countless strangers, seeking validation in the form of likes, comments, and shares. But why do we crave this virtual validation so intensely?
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
A Tale of Success and Emptiness
Danny Rossi woke up alone. Not merely alone in bed but feeling a pervasive emptiness in his entire life. How could this be? he asked himself. Here I am in my new — Fifth Avenue duplex overlooking Central Park. In a minute a butler is going to walk through that door with my breakfast on a silver tray. He’ll also be bringing this morning’s mail, which will contain invitations to at least a dozen parties all over the world. And I suddenly feel unhappy. Unhappy? What a ridiculous thought… Unhappy? There isn’t an orchestra in the world that wouldn’t die to have me as a soloist… So why do I feel worse than I ever did when I was stuck in that lousy little practice room in my parents’ cellar?
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
How Much of your Autonomy are you willing to Give up?
We have always thrived on the new and the now. Trends seem to dictate everything from the clothes we wear to the ideas we share. But why do we follow trends so fervently? What drives us to adopt the latest fads and fashions, often without a second thought? The answer lies in an interdisciplinary examination of psychology, sociology, and evolutionary factors.
By Waleed Mahmud Tariq2 years ago in Humans
