Mirror, Mirror: Teaching Teens to Reflect Without the Drama.

Mirror, Mirror: Teaching Teens to Reflect Without the Drama.

Reflection turns struggles into strength. (Desiree Panlilio).   Self-improvement isn’t something we hand to our teens—it’s something we invite them into. One of the most powerful tools in that invitation is reflection. As our teens grow, they’re not just physically...
Mirror, Mirror: Teaching Teens to Reflect Without the Drama.

Self-Improvement Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Lifestyle Shift

Happiness depends upon ourselves. (Aristotle).   There’s a myth out there that you have to feel motivated in order to grow. That somehow, people who are making progress—who seem disciplined, productive, or successful—are riding some invisible wave of inspiration....
Shame Your Teen? Nah, Let’s Try Something That Actually Works.

Shame Your Teen? Nah, Let’s Try Something That Actually Works.

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.(Winston Churchill).   We’ve all been there. Your teen misses a deadline, flunks a quiz they said they were ready for, or forgets an important commitment. In that instant,...
Shame Your Teen? Nah, Let’s Try Something That Actually Works.

Space for Personal Growth.

Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still. (Chinese Proverb).   In recent weeks, I’ve shared thoughts on the power of self-reflection and the importance of goal-setting for both parents and teens. These two practices are essential...
Stop Hoping. Start Planning.

Stop Hoping. Start Planning.

Only three percent of adults have written goals, and everyone else works for them. (Brian Tracy).   A New Year’s resolution often feels like throwing sand into the ocean—it slips away almost immediately. By the end of January, most resolutions have evaporated....
Take Time to Reflect.

Take Time to Reflect.

Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action. (Peter Drucker).   I am often asked, “Why do we need to reflect?” It’s a good question, and a fair one, especially from parents who are knee-deep in...