Over the past few years I have had many parents talk to me about their children having meltdowns. The parent is usually not sure what to do especially when the emotional pleas take place in public. I would like to suggest that many of these meltdowns could be reduced if the parent would think about how they can live as a “champion parent,” as opposed to being a victim of their child’s behavior. That sounds quite harsh, but I am suggesting that parents join me in cutting some of their own … [Read more...]
Stop Juggling & Start Living
Each year in the United States approximately 1.5 million children are transitioning due to changes in their parents’ marital or relationship status. We have all seen the ramifications of so much change. And we all wonder why some children appear more greatly affected than others. We have all told our own children to be kind to the child who is going through “a rough patch”. However, what can we as the parents do to help our own children fare better? Helpful Tips for Parents: Be … [Read more...]
Key Components of Active Parenting
What words would you use to describe your relationship to parenting? Is it... a privilege, a responsibility, hard work, a drag, being crazy in a sea of chaos, overwhelming...? I would like to suggest that you have the privilege to affect the future by parenting well. You have the opportunity to offer leadership to your household. Yes, sometimes it is chaotic, overwhelming, sad and frustrating - but then other times, it is rewarding, joyous, funny, and very fulfilling. Parenting is a role … [Read more...]
Fun Activities to do with Your Kids (For Dad or Grandpa)
Potato Cannon When it comes to making a lasting memory with your child or grandchild, there is something tangible and real about a building project. It gives your child a real object that says, “Here is what I made with Dad or Grandpa.” That is why the potato cannon build is capable of creating such lasting memories. Not only is it great because of the process of putting it all together, but when it is ready there is huge satisfaction in launching potatoes hundreds of feet with a cannon you … [Read more...]
Develop an Unbreakable Bond With Your Children
Over 21,000,000 are being raised in non-traditional households with a non-custodial parent or grandparent wanting to have a relationship with their family member, but stating that it is difficult to do. So, last year, I asked one of our parent coaches, Jillian Kennedy, how she would recommend spending time with children during this break. She had a hard time just offering a few ideas on how to best connect. Her comment was that there are lots of ways you can connect with your child! She … [Read more...]
To Thyself Be True
According to popular LinkedIn research, 80% of people "do not enjoy" or "strongly hate" their jobs. In 2010, the research said that 80% of people were "dissatisfied" with their jobs. The word “hate” seems really strong in light of doing something on a daily basis. In fact, I feel like a freak when I read this statistic because I love my job, as a Mediator. Let me demystify what mediation is. What is mediation? It is an alternative dispute resolution mechanism where the goal is to resolve a … [Read more...]
Better Together
Not long ago, I had the pleasure and challenge of a consistent workout routine with a partner. I have tried this concept of working out many times for self-improvement. However, getting myself to go out into the cold alone has been inconsistent at best. This concept of "exercising with a good friend" has reminded me about the power of partnership for personal growth. Our energy together has been far stronger than our energy alone, and there were times when I could actually feel myself being … [Read more...]
Be a True Friend to Thyself
Last week I asked three people how they had survived their divorce process? They each said that their friends and family members being so supportive was their key to their survival and current success. This again reminded me that we truly need compassionate people in this world. And when we encounter such people, they make it possible for us to do well in the future and help another human being or two also. What does it mean to be a compassionate person anyway? When I used a thesaurus, it … [Read more...]
6 Steps to Victorious Living
I have a place I go when I need clarity in my life. I love to walk and at the Grotto Sanctuary in East Portland. Last week, I took advantage of my Monday morning, it was a cool, rainy day and the cloud cover overhead was beautiful and gray. I was determined to leave my feelings of heaviness or anxiety and dread here. And exchange these feelings with optimism and renewal. I had a necklace that somebody had given me stating that I had unlocked some of their past beliefs, and helped them move … [Read more...]
Resources for Growing Ourselves
We think of 2019 being a special year because it is the last year in the teens before we go into the 20’s. It is the year of the earth pig on the Chinese calendar - which is considered the year of good fortune and luck. But most importantly it is the year that we make it. So far in our posts we have talked about getting in line with our Core Value Index. Getting our thought processes in line with reality: Congruence. Prioritize Personal Growth & Development There have been … [Read more...]