I have written before about how I tend to ignore things that need to get done and to escape from my real life in order to come with stress. Unfortunately, this is a habit that I have passed on to my kids. We spend too much time in escape mode, playing when we should be working, putting things off, and procrastinating till it's almost too late, which really creates more stress. I am in the process of trying to retrain myself and my kids to respond to stress by acting, not by escaping.
I was talking to my daughter the other night. She's almost 18 now. I have about six months left with her in my home. We were talking about how changing is hard, and doing new things is hard. As we talked about dealing with the stress of doing hard things, I was reminded of how I need to go first and show her the way. If I want to be a good leader, I have to give her something to follow. When I lead the way for her, even if the path is hard, she can follow in my footsteps, making her path a little easier. As she shared some of her fears, I told her that I will help her, and I will go with her as she tries to make positive changes in her life that are scary.
Change is hard. But it's usually a good thing. It stretches us and causes us to reach and grow. I want to show my kids the good that comes from stretching and growing. I want to show them that even though something is hard, it can still be done. I want to show them what it looks like and feels like to face the scary things and beat them. And when I've done that, I can take their hands and lead the way as they find the courage to make positive changes in their own lives.
Today is a recommitment day for me. I am recommitting to my weight loss program, my job as an Arbonne consultant, my family, my home, my church responsibilities, and my happiness. My list of things to do is ridiculously long, but even if I don't get it all done, I intend to make a good dent in it. I am learning not to expect perfection from myself, just a good effort. Because I sometimes get off track, I end up having to recommit myself relatively frequently, but that's okay, as long as I keep trying. Here's to another day of enjoying the journey. Have a blessed day. :)
I've thought about this idea of leading our children by example. What a touching thought to picture you having such an intimate discussion with your daughter. They learn so much for us, both good and bad. But it really is important for the to learn about struggle, then how to deal with it. I remind my kids sometimes when they make mistakes how good it is that they do it in a loving environment with the family. Not that we always have that perfect outlook,but I can try! Thank you for your inspiration! I need to recommit myself in so many ways!
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