I refuse to sacrifice my family because I am afraid to disappoint my own parents. I refuse to put my parents’ happiness (and often manipulation) before that of my wife/husband and kids. Early on, my wife felt unsafe and rightfully resentful because I didn’t have the strength to be firm with my Dad about boundaries.… Continue Reading ›

Today, I assume the best about others’ intentions. Instead of blaming, I give people tools to succeed. Instead of assuming my child is just being difficult, I discover the root of the issue–does he need tools to help with his anxiety or stress? Is that student lazy…or overwhelmed? Is that child misbehaving or just in… Continue Reading ›

Today, I make myself a priority. My peace of mind is important. Even though I am busy, I carve 20 minutes out of my day/evening to read, garden, listen to music on my headphones, rock in a chair alone, pray, call a friend, be creative, use MY gifts, exercise, learn something *I* am interested in.… Continue Reading ›

Can you relate to this email (reprinted with permission) I received this morning? “I am ashamed to admit that I am glad it’s Monday. I hate weekends. I wondered why I was feeling  hopeless yesterday. I mean it’s a break from the chaos of the school week–and that’s nothing but non-stop rushing for us. So… Continue Reading ›

Our LIVE workshops are most often described as life-changing, practical and laugh-out-loud funny. We can train teachers, parents and students on the same day. You can view videos and get more information by clicking Celebrate Calm Workshops or Calm Christian Parenting Workshops. We serve schools, churches, synagogues, homeschooling groups, associations (i.e. keynote Foster & Adoptive… Continue Reading ›

Today, I am assertive. Instead of hoping that my spouse, kids, boss or friends can read my mind and know what I need, I will tell them. I will be specific, firm and matter-of-fact. I will practice asking for help. I have needs and I will not be afraid to state them plainly. I am… Continue Reading ›

We were driving home a few weeks ago on our way back to our little village (a long five-hour trip over terrible roads)…we try to think of ways to make this trip seem shorter.  So, we decided to listen to some of your CDs.  We’ve listened to them on our own, not with the kids.… Continue Reading ›

Today, my child may struggle in school academically or socially. Rather than react to my anxiety and fear, or try to fix everything, I will take a deep breath. I will realize this is normal. I will sit down, ask questions and listen. I will show my child that he is okay, that everyone struggles,… Continue Reading ›

Today, I am free. I am not responsible for my child’s happiness. I am not responsible for managing my spouse. I am not responsible to make life perfect for everyone. It is not my job to fix everything or everyone. Today I do one thing that brings me joy. I celebrate it. And then I… Continue Reading ›

How much have your kids changed you? Besides the gray hair, of course. Picture that single guy with no kids, age 37. Gets to play video games, watch ESPN, go out whenever he wants. Now picture the 37-year-old couple, married for 15 years, two kids. Or the single parent juggling demands. Who is likely more… Continue Reading ›