Consider: The only person’s happiness you’re responsible for is your own. This has been a big learning for me. I suspect it’s a big learning for most (if not all) of us — and our teens need to learn this too. Teen…
Teen Speak: Notes to Self When Life is Changing
This summer was a season of unknowns. I felt untethered, unsure, and unsteady most of the time. Frankly, it kind of sucked. And now the summer is over. There is comfort in being back in the routine of school, though…
Responsibilities and A**hat Mode
Let’s all take a reminder for today (adults/parents and teens/kids alike): We’re not responsible for the feelings, happiness, or emotional well being of any other person — only ourselves. Say it with me if you need to. We’re not responsible…
Make Me Happy: On Happiness and Other People
Check out a teen’s perspective on happiness, ourselves, and other people. A tough (though useful) life lesson I’m starting to get (after years of trying to please every coach, teacher, boss, and other “authority figure,” even into adulthood, and seeing…
College Applications and the Land of Comparisons
My oldest’s college application process has been interesting to witness, both for her and her peers as well as what it’s brought about for me. It’s been eye-opening to see highlighted old stories I still grip and continue to reactivate…
A Working Theory and Other Notes to Self
Today I could use some reminders to self. So here goes: I can’t parent “wrong”. There are an infinite number of ways something could be done (and I can never know exactly what would be best for someone else because…
On Happiness
Today’s note to self for our teens (and us too!): You are responsible for your own happiness. You are not responsible for making anyone else (such as your friends, teachers, parents, or significant others) happy, nor are they responsible for…
Finding Happiness (Or Not)
Today’s food for thought is on happiness. Happiness (the sustainable kind) doesn’t live in food and drink, nor in social media scrolling, compliments, new toys, or promotions. Sure, sometimes things outside of us can bring fun, smiles, and immediate good feelings…