As parents, we all have dreams for our children—visions of success, happiness, and, let’s be honest, sometimes a dash of “doing things the way we would.” But as our kids grow into young adults, they may start to make choices that can leave us scratching our heads, feeling a bit frustrated, or even biting our...Read More
Traditional goal-setting methods often follow the SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework has its merits, and it can sometimes lead to frustration, especially when unforeseen obstacles arise. For instance, setting a goal to exercise for 30 minutes every day might seem achievable, but what happens when you’re sick, have a busy workday,...Read More
One of the things parents and teachers both ask about is the student who does not self-advocate. To the adults, it does not seem to make sense that a struggling or confused student would not reach out. The student may need your guidance to access help. ________________ When was the last time you had to...Read More
One of my favorite things to remind people is that it’s never too early and it’s never too late to get started making a difference. Prime happier, more joyful holidays with videos and books that will boost you now and as you ring in the new year! What if you could give practical, engaging gifts...Read More
When I realized that I’d forgotten my mom’s birthday, the self-judgments hit me hard. “I’m a horrible daughter. And an airhead. How could I be so selfish? My mom would never be so thoughtless. I must be one of those self-absorbed millennials the news is always complaining about.” Ever had self-abasing thoughts? It’s true that...Read More
I have earned a C- on a test I was sure I’d aced. I feel my shoulders slump and my energy plummet. I hide the test and start chatting with my friends, trying to put my sadness and shame from my mind. Have you ever tried to shove away an unwanted feeling? Who hasn’t! No...Read More
After an unbelievably tough day, I slump through the door. I should get to work on my assignments or chores, or at least eat a healthy dinner, but I feel way too defeated to do any of that. I just want to relax! I grab a bag of chips, flop on the sofa, and lose...Read More
I wake up, an underslept mess because I was tossing and turning all night, pestered by regrets and worries. The morning starts in a confused fog of bad feelings and muddy thinking. I’m sullen towards everyone I see, and I’m angry at myself. I want to get things done! I want to get along with...Read More
It’s my birthday. My friends serenade me as my mom brings out the birthday cake, the candles glowing. I’m about to blow them out and make a wish when the negativity hits. My birthday will be over soon, and then it’s back to chores and assignments. What if I don’t get what I wish for?...Read More
Sitting with my interview file on my lap, I try hard to pay attention to my interviewer. I know it’ll be important to respond that what she’s saying, but my thoughts keep wandering. Do I look okay? Can she hear the waver in my voice? Will she smell that “everything” bagel I ate for breakfast?...Read More