"A lot of people don't want an affair to define the next 10 to 15 years of their life. They want to just move forward," says Lisa Chen, LMFT, on why forgiveness after infidelity doesn't always mean getting back together.

"I often tell clients that the goal isn't to squeeze every last minute. It's to help your future self," says Lisa Chen, LMFT. "I consider the best Sunday evening routines to typically include all three things: something enjoyable, some rest, and a little preparation for the week ahead."

The physical clearing is helpful not just for your mind, but allows for your body and nervous system to register the change." Lisa Chen, LMFT on why the empty-nest cleanout starts with the entryway, not the bedroom.

"Resilience isn't built through ease. It's built through challenges." Lisa Chen, LMFT explains how travel interrupts rigid coping patterns.

“Saying it out loud registers differently than typing it.” Lisa Chen on low-key gratitude practices that feel natural, not forced: voice notes tied to a daily habit, and a camera-roll album of small, happy moments.

Lisa Chen on how burnout is quietly reshaping infidelity: when reserves are depleted, exhaustion may preserve commitment more than intention does.

How mentally tallying imbalances erodes trust and goodwill, and what it takes to move from a transactional dynamic into real partnership.

How a midweek start sidesteps the all-or-nothing pressure of a Monday fresh start and makes lasting change more likely.