I enjoyed an interesting and motivating presentation several weeks ago in Nashville, TN for my business.  Company managment and field leadership shared content-rich sessions and I had several ah-ha moments.  A motivational speaker, Dale Smith Thomas from http://www.WinnersByChoice.com spoke and confirmed a critical philosophy I am striving to pass onto my young son - the issue of choice.

When I had power struggles when my son was 2- and 3-years old, I asked his pediatrician about how to deal with the behavior challenges.  It was simple - give him choice.  I started to give my son a "this-or-that" type choice on a regular basis.  For example, instead of asking would you like to put on your shoes (or something to that effect), I started asking "Would you like to start with your left shoe or your right shoe?"  It worked brillantly.  I have since moved up to "Option A", which is usually what I need him to do or "Option B", which comes with a negative consequence and is typically something he would like to do.

The presentation by Ms. Smith Thomas reminded me of the control we truly have over the present situation - not that we can change circumstances by sprinkling pixie dust.  We choose how we react to a situation.  We have a choice on how we take responsibility for our actions in a given situation.  I always asked my son as I dropped him off in the mornings - "Are you going to have a good day?"  Now I ask "Are you choosing to have a good day?"  My son is a generally upbeat and optimistic child so the answer is an enthusiastic "Yes!"  I like that tone.  And if I am not able to pass on any other value, I choose to pass on the value of choice.  It is never too late for me to learn the power of choice as well.

Savor life's best,

Aimee

http://www.OccasionsToSavor.com

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