Resolutions 'R Us
When my editor asked if I had any "family resolutions" for the new year I didn't really have any idea what she was talking about. I resolve to get through each day with my dignity intact but that doesn't always work out. So casting about a year-long resolution seems a bit beyond my capacity. And the truth is for a list on how to make your family better and healthier, you can't beat this article (though I wouldn't call it resolutions you can stick to, I might call it resolutions you will want to stick to, but will fail from time to time)
It did get me thinking and I asked a few friends about what we could resolve to be better in the next year and this is what we came up with, in no particular order.
I resolve to stop jaywalking with my kids.
I resolve to keep sarcasm out of active listening. Eg: So you think it's OK to sit you your brother's face laughing hysterically while he wails in terror.
I resolve to drink less wine during family conversations and to stop using the talking stick as the beating stick.
I resolve to stop doing a happy dance everytime my kid eats a vegetable.
I resolve to stop asking my daughter 50 times a day if she has to pee.
I resolve to get outside more with the kids, even if the weather is crappy.
I resolve to stop avoiding my husband when I know he wants to have sex.
I resolve to stop labeling my kids, especially within earshot.
I resolve to sign my kids up for programs during the early bird specials.
I resolve to stop saying I can't play with you right now, a little less and say I would love to play with you a little more.
I resolve to stop checking Twitter every time I can't think of a word/sentence/idea (follow me at @whiningndining)
I resolve to beat my husband at one video game.
I resolve to Celebrate All Wins (CAW) no matter how small and insignificant.
I resolve to reflect on my child's behaviour and see that when they are acting horribly, it's because they feel horrible.
I resolve to let my kids make mistakes, so they can experience making it better.
And I will thank them.
Laura Trice at TED, September 2008
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