Summary: Stress responses are first learned at home. Parents, as leaders, are the first ones who can make a difference. Here are some ways to rethink your methods for getting into “the safe stress zone.”
Dear Dr. Sylvia,
The world, these days, is filled with extremes.
There is either too much of something or too little.
Almost all the weather reports include, “It has never been this way before.”
In addition, what about how we treat each other?
Needs improvement.
Finally, I am disappointed with myself and how I lash out at people when stressed.
I need help as a parent to my three teen sons and my executive team at work.
When I yell, I feel ashamed.
When I ignore complex issues, I feel defeated.
I am willing to do mental health work to communicate better when stressed.
Firstly, I would like to start doing better to master stress with my twelve-, fifteen-, and seventeen-year-old sons.
Thanks in advance for responding.
Signed,
The Growler!
Dear Growler,
Good for you! Becoming a stress buster is vital for all parents, especially in our polarized world.
Thus, I have written a handbook for parents, “Parents as Leaders: Conquer Stress and Thrive.” It is a companion book with the best seller “Invisible Stress (It’s NOT What YOU Think)” and the Stress Mastery online four-module program.
For all parents, it is vital to understand the true impact of stress on children and family dynamics.
Shedding light on this vital subject will empower you to act and address stress more effectively.
I only wish there had been a handbook when my daughters were growing up.
What did I do?
I yelled.
What else did I do?
I threatened.
And yes, I punished.
Can you relate?
I often felt desperate when I asked them to listen to me. When I spoke politely, sadly, it went in one ear and out the other.
Sometimes I felt deflated and, even worse, like the worst mother on the planet!
Therefore, I want to offer practical strategies I have accumulated as a therapist and executive coach.
This handbook will give you actionable tips, techniques, and coping mechanisms you can immediately implement.
You can reduce stress levels and create a more harmonious environment.
Chronic stress can strain relationships within the family.
I offer insights on nurturing and strengthening relationships amidst stress so you can promote better communication, empathy, and understanding at home.
This handbook will give you a map for identifying stress triggers.
Most of us struggle to identify the root causes of stress at home. This handbook will guide you on effectively managing or mitigating those triggers.
Here you will get guidance and emotional support and create a safe space for everyone to express their feelings.
In this way, you foster a more resilient and emotionally healthy family unit.
We know parenting is a continuous learning journey, and this handbook is a valuable resource to enhance parenting skills regarding stress.
Therefore, within the home, parents are leaders and must learn skills to teach the children well.
The impact of positive stress skills will impact you, your children, and even your grandchildren.
As parents, you are role models for your children. By showcasing healthy coping mechanisms, parents learn to handle stress positively.
Then you can teach your children valuable life lessons that can last a lifetime.
Stress affects not only mental health but also physical well-being.
Here you will get tips on healthy eating, regular exercise, and self-care practices that can alleviate stress symptoms.
Here is one tip: eat blueberries. They are stress reducers and taste great.
Moreover, we all know that stress can significantly impact a child’s academic performance.
You can help set up an optimal study environment with ways to create positive time management methods. In that way, you support your children in achieving their academic goals despite stressful circumstances.
You and your family can build resilience to navigate life’s challenges.
As you change, your children can change also. You give them the ability to bounce back from stress and adversity, ultimately leading to stronger individuals and families.
Get a complimentary copy of “Parents as Leaders: Conquer Stress and Thrive.” Begin the journey to new, improved communication and collaboration methods at home.
Here’s to your success,
Sylvia Lafair
PS. Want a fun way to learn simple techniques to keep you in the safe stress zone? Join The Sanity Challenge and take five minutes daily for one week to gather new skills. Sign up here.
