Under ordinary circumstances, giving up an addiction, any addiction, is hard enough. But Obama isn't living under ordinary circumstances. Shouldn't we allow him his occasional cigs?

Many people believe that good self-care requires money - only the rich have the resources to invest in themselves. I met two people who explained how my thinking was understandable, but mistaken.

We mood-alter with substances (alcohol, nicotine, caffeine, etc.) and activities (shopping, gambling, sex, work etc.) We are unable to simply be awake and present to life -- so we medicate our existential anxiety.

I began re-reading Chellie Campbell's terrific book, The Wealthy Spirit. Chellie is a big believer in affirmations and they're an important part of the work she does in helping people reduce financial stress.