About Life At The Intersection

Learn about Life At The Intersection, created by Dr. Terri L. Lyon to offer practical, research-based resources for sustainable activism, social change, and the 5-Step Activism Path.

A graphic logo for Life At The Intersection website

Research. Practice.
Real-World Impact.

Life At The Intersection is grounded in psychological research on motivation and sustainable engagement. It combines evidence-based strategies with real-world experience to help you take meaningful action while protecting your well-being.

As seen in: Reader’s Digest · NAMI · Walden University

Dr. Terri L. Lyon

Industrial/Organizational Psychologist & Professor

The Activist for Activists

  • I help people create change that lasts.
  • Licensed Psychologist.
  • Expertise in training, leadership, and motivation.
  • Author and Speaker.

Why This Work Matters

You care deeply about the world, but do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, unsure where to begin, or discouraged by approaches that wear you down?

Many movements are faced with a terrible dropout rate. Only a small percentage of people who start in activism continue the work long term. 

There is another way. You can take meaningful action without burning out. When you are supported in the right ways, you stay involved and build impact over time.

The Foundation of Sustainable Activism

Sustainable activism offers a different way forward. One that helps you identify where you can make the greatest impact and how to stay motivated over time.

Making change isn’t always easy, but your activism should feel meaningful and sustainable.

The 5-Step Activism Path provides a practical framework to help you focus your passion, use your strengths, and take action in ways that last.

Graphic of the 5-Step Activism Path

My Path to This Work

For decades, I was a “free rider” in social change,  learning early on that speaking up felt dangerous. My wake-up call came in 2016. I traded my silence for a Sharpie and a march on Washington. 

 
The activists I work with find joy, even when it’s challenging, because they live their values for a cause they care deeply about in a way that keeps them engaged.
Dr. Terri Lyon

Experience and Background

Education

Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology with a business minor.

Teaching and Speaking

Professor, speaker, and trainer focused on helping people apply research to real-world change.

Writing

Books and resources that translate research into practical guidance.

Consulting

Worked with Fortune 500 organizations on performance, motivation, selection, and training.

Take the Next Step

Connect