“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” ~ Lao Tsu I read this quote and felt compelled to write about it today. Many of us parents identify parenting as being a stressful journey where guilt, self-doubt, and even feelings of incompetence rear its ugly head. Many of us are going to bed at night replaying the days events over and over again - questioning what we said or did. Others waking up mid-sleep and not feeling settled or satisfied. Today, this quote really spoke to me because so many of us feel desperate on wanting to make some kind of change in how we're parenting and shift the dynamics of our family's. However, deep down we are often nervous, anxious or scared about driving on that road to change because we know in fact it will be journey. I'm here to remind us not to get overwhelmed by the journey and instead think about your next step. That's the step that will get you into action. Just one step at a time because it's the baby steps that accumulate into the bigger impact. Think back on your child's first steps? How each little one gave more courage, drive and encouragement to take one more step. How can you apply that same philosophy towards your vision and goal of becoming a stronger, confidant, content and more mindful parent?
This week, during my Monday evening Mindful Parent session, we discussed Stress Management and I closed the session with an exercise called the Top 3 Things™ tool. Much like today's quote at the top of this letter, the tool is about building our coping strategies with stressors at home - one step at a time. The idea is to list the best 3 things that happen in the day and update the top 3 as more things "make the list" and bump off the previous ones listed. *(For more details on the tool, please email me for a copy and instructions). There are many great tools, strategies and advice out there and they may all sound great but it comes down to our willingness to commit to doing one and really trying it out - one step at a time. My approach is all about empowering us to be the best parent because when we dig deep, we have what it takes to be great. With one foot in front of the other, you will arrive at the place where you will no longer "lose it" when your son or daughter spill their drink or refuse to keep their gloves on. Remember, like any worthwhile and memorable trip, our journey in parenting is filled with opportunities to look for the positive and emphasize a healthier outlook. You can choose to enjoy the ride because your reaction to things is in YOUR CONTROL. Have a great rest-of-the-week and stay connected on Facebook and Twitter. Stay tuned for your next boost! Straight from the heart! Sandra |
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