Let Go Like a Parent
Parents start by doing everything—tying shoes, zipping jackets, holding little hands across the street. But eventually, kids have to try things on their own. Even when it’s messy. Even when it’s hard to watch. Stepping back can feel wrong, but it’s what allows them to build confidence and learn what they’re capable of. That same […]
Lead by Example Like a Parent
One of the biggest lessons we learn from parents doesn’t come from what they say—it comes from what they do. Children may hear rules and guidance, but what really shapes them is the behavior they’re surrounded by. When kids see patience, they learn patience. When they’re spoken to with kindness, they internalize kindness. When a […]
Use Your Words Like a Kindergartener
One of the first lessons we teach kids is to use their words. We say it when they’re frustrated, when they want something, when they’re struggling to express themselves. We tell them, use your words, because words bring clarity. They help us understand each other. They make life easier to navigate. But somewhere along the way, we stop thinking […]
WAIT – Why Am I Talking?
I had to find a way to stop myself from getting trapped in the same frustrating cycle—repeating myself, saying the same things over and over, desperately trying to get someone I love to finally understand me. I’d catch myself in the middle of a monologue, saying it again for the 58th time, hoping that this […]
Why Feelings Matter
How are you? How are you doing? What are you feeling? These questions are everywhere, but they’ve mostly turned into polite greetings. We often respond with a quick, “Fine,” “Can’t complain,” or “Not bad.” But what if we paused and asked ourselves, “What am I really feeling right now?” A lot of us might feel […]
Shifting Mindsets with Simple Tricks
My brother, Michael, recently showed me a clever way he taught his kids to “trick” their minds when faced with something they resist. During my visit, he told his 4-year-old it was time for medicine, which brought instant tears. The anticipated taste was enough to cause a meltdown, so Michael reminded him they could use […]
When Helping Hurts
I’ve always loved helping. I’d jump in to make someone’s work easier, help their party go smoothly, or even try to boost their self-esteem. It felt good to be the person who set aside my own needs to be of service. But when I really looked at it, I started to see it wasn’t all […]
I’m Every Woman
Sometimes I get really loud and excitable and need a party of people to have fun with. Sometimes, I think the world is too loud and I need to be quiet and alone. Sometimes I want to share my controversial opinions and scream them at everyone. Sometimes I just want to sit back and listen. […]
Stop Giving Advice
A few years ago, I made the decision to stop giving unsolicited advice. It’s been tough to stick with, especially when someone opens up and I think I have the perfect solution. The urge to fix problems is strong. But I’ve come to believe that resisting that impulse makes me a better, kinder person. When […]
Don’t Lose Your Mind
I would like to always be kind, thoughtful, and considerate. I think many of us want that. But then, life throws us a tough moment, and we quickly react with a sharp and cruel response. How does that happen? We don’t want to be mean to people we know and love, but stress pushes us, […]
