When you look at this 2011 graphic, what do you experience? Do you feel a sense of excitement and hope that 2011 is here, or maybe a sense of indifference or even dread?
The truth is, that in many ways, we have no idea what 2011 will be like for us in terms of actual experiences and events. Even when we think we know what is in store for us, life throws us curveballs that make us wonder about our ability to endure pain and stress. We also experience pleasant surprises that make us appreciate life all the more.
A lot of what we experience is out of our control or out of our field of vision, but that doesn't mean that we don't have a very important role to play. In fact, the one thing on which we can consistently focus are the perspectives by which we view and engage in life -- the life we have lived and certainly the days ahead. Think about it, your views and mental outlook shape your interactions with your children. You can be the parent that transmits anger or delight, supportive guidance or critical judgement, hope or fear, excitement or boredom, a sense of survival or defeat.
As 2011 moves forward, and the unexpected comes your way, consider consistently asking yourself the following questions:
1. How might someone else experience what I am going through?
2. What other viewpoints exist about this situation (don't judge whether they are valid or invalid)?
3. What am I suppose to learn from this?
4. What am I suppose to enjoy from this?
5. What am I suppose to convey to my children during this time or experience?
When I provide parent coaching to my clients I often help them to make a shift in a perspective, moving through or beyond what seems impossible or negative and accessing a new parenting toolkit with which to navigate the curveballs of life.
"If the only tool you have is a hammer, you tend to see every problem as a nail." - Abraham Maslow
All the best in your parenting,
Kay Kimball Gruder
While you are wondering about how your student did last semester, he or she is wondering about whether the car is available tonight. 
It is hard to discern what is important or valuable in a world where everything seems so important. 
