At the start of 2011, many parents and caregivers will begin to make New Year Resolutions for themselves and their families. While setting goals can be a wonderful thing, we often identify our resolutions from perceived failures. As a result, we are beginning our goal setting from a negative frame of mind and often with unrealistic expectations. This year, start off 2011 with a look back on all of the successes that you and your children have had and aspire to set goals that build upon those strengths. Coming from a place of positivity creates energy and confidence.
Once you begin identifying your resolutions or goals keep a few things in mind:
• Create goals that are realistic. You can't run a marathon before you can run a mile. Identify areas you and your children would like to improve and create attainable steps in the process.
• Identify goals that are developmentally and age appropriate and suit your family. What is right for one child or family isn't necessarily right for another.
• Set goals that are specific and measurable so that you are able to recognize and reward progress.
• Resolve to laugh more, increase family activities like reading together or playing games and catch your kids being good. In addition to adding fun to your lives these resolutions will increase family communication, strengthen relationships and build self-esteem.
• Finally, as a parent/caregiver differentiate between self-care and selfishness. People often don't do things for themselves because they believe it to be selfish and instead focus on the needs and desires of others. In order to be your best self and have the physical and emotional energy to care for others, you must first care for yourself. Keep in mind one of the first safety rules you are given when you fly: always put the oxygen mask on yourself first!
Best wishes for a healthy and happy new year!
Kristi Hallman, LCSW-C
301-712-9015, Ext. 1012
www.KristiHallman.com
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