Notice the Good
Our first shift is noticing the good. Take a week or two to really set an intention and focus on all the good. Focus on things you’re thankful for, the good things during your day, and most of all, the good things your kids are doing. But even more important, share with your children, spouse, and others the great things they do that you appreicate.
Why?
Well, first of all, it feels good to be noticed and appreciated. Second, it changes behavior. The more we notice and praise the good things, the more likely someone is to do those things. And third, it rewires our brain for positivity instead of negativity.
Parents Job: Notice the great things your kids do and give them genuine attention and acknowledgment.
I don’t care if it’s something they always do. I don’t care if it’s something they should be doing. I don’t even care if you had to tell them 20 times to do it. Just notice, appreciate, and say thank you. (Leave out the “finallys” though!)
Examples:
“I noticed how you tried really hard to stay calm when your sister was yelling. You did a really good job, I know that’s hard”
“I really appreciate that you always bring your dishes to the sink every day after dinner.”
“Thank you for cleaning up your room like I asked”
Kids Job: Say what they’re thankful for or the best part of their day at the end of every day. Make it part of your bedtime or dinner routine. Get everyone in the habit of focusing on the good things in your world.
Once you’ve got this down! We’ll move to family shift 2!
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