Life can and will be challenging at times, but it is important to be prepared with some ‘tools’ before those times arrive. My tools are personal – having words of strength surround me such as, compassion, determination, drive, desire, hope, and happiness. Tools can be cheerleaders, supporters, trainers, teachers, coaches, and even advocates in your life. Tools can be equipment such as books, treadmills, journals, computers, AdvoCare or a written plan.
I love my siblings even though we have different views on many topics, such as, religion, politics, parenting, or money. Although we love each other, sometimes when we gather, conversation can get heated and there can be disagreements. I have however; learned that many people have challenging relationships in their lives and tools can help us all.
For those of you that don’t know, I am the middle child of seven children born over an 8-year span. Four of us live locally, but rarely see each other. A couple of years ago it was really bothering me that we weren’t connecting more. I wanted to be closer to my siblings or at least check in more often, but I knew it would be easier if I had some tools before we met. We decided to meet once a month, in a public place, without spouses or our children. We meet for breakfast and each of us gets 15 minutes to check-in (while my organized brother times us). To you this might seem silly, but to me it is wonderful. We took a situation that has proven to be challenging in the past and made it work for us. We removed extra people, set boundaries – personal space, no alcohol, and determined times: 15 minute check-ins and once a month gatherings. Not only do I love seeing my siblings and look forward to our once a month breakfast, but it also makes my mom very happy to see her children connecting.
What ‘tools’ can you use to make challenging situations work? With the right tools we can make any goal achievable.
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