Nov. 16, 2011 Self Care! Weekly Tips to Help You Create the Life You Desire Tip of the Week   So What (My Annual Holiday Reminder!) I can tell from spending time with my clients and friends recently, that many people are heading to Thanksgiving gatherings with some ambivalence. Families are "messy" and if you will be spending time with yours, you too may see it as a mixed blessing. So here's my tip for you...if someone slights you, makes a condescending comment, tries to impress you with their success, brags about their "perfect" kids, drinks too much and gets "loose lips," gets their feelings hurt, or in any other way makes you feel uncomfortable, say to yourself, SO WHAT! Really, so what...these scenes are being repeated in homes across the country. You've been annoyed, offended, pissed off, or hurt on other like occasions. How about trying something new and just let it go? Choose not to have negative emotions, let people get on your nerves, or be critical. Recognize that these are patterns that have been in place for years. Know that no family is perfect. So what that yours isn't either! Enjoy them for who they are. The holiday is about giving thanks. If you enjoy yourself in spite of the idiosyncrasies of the people you've spent it with, you can give thanks to yourself  for being an adult, being human, and cutting you and others some slack! Happy Thanksgiving! Are You Stuck?   So many people get stuck in unhealthy patterns and behaviors. Do any of the following keep you stuck? Poor communication Irritability or anger with others or life in general A feeling that you should be happier An inability to find your "passion" Grief from a loss that doesn't seem to go away Eating, drinking, or spending more than you would like A disappointing relationship with a significant other As this year is coming to a close, maybe now is the time to work on alleviating the things that keep you stuck. Counseling can help you get on the path to making your life what you want it to be. Give me a call at 913-663-3611 to get started. About Karen Karen Rowinsky, LMSW, is a licensed master social worker. She has a private counseling practice in Overland Park. She helps people:  Manage the challenges of life transitions  Deal with relationship and family issues  Grieving or experiencing a  loss  Increase self-confidence and self-esteem Recover from anxiety, depression, or past trauma  Who do you know who may be struggling with changes in his or her life? Grieving the death of a loved one?  Recently separated or divorced? Holidays are the roughest time to go it alone if you are grieving or have experienced a major life change.  Make sure those you care about have the support they need. They will thank you for suggesting someone who can help.   Contact Information Karen Rowinsky, LMSW 10551 Barkley Street, Suite 320 Overland Park, KS 66212 913-663-3511 www.overlandparkcounseling.com Join our mailing list!