Ever noticed how kids have this uncanny ability to "tune out" when we start our well-intentioned lectures? It's almost like they've developed selective hearing. But here's the thing: Children will listen to you, truly listen, after they've felt heard themselves. So, what's the secret sauce to making this happen?

Let me share a secret—I had this habit of beating myself up over things I hadn't accomplished. Sound familiar? But gratitude stepped in like a wise friend, nudging me to celebrate the small victories. Didn't finish that project today? No biggie. You showed up, and that's worth celebrating.

Remember those times back to your school days when you stumbled, faltered, and made mistakes? Now, consider the messages that surrounded those moments. Were they ones of disappointment, inadequacy, or perhaps even a tinge of shame? What if, instead of criticism, we were met with encouragement and engagement in the process of fixing and learning from our mistakes?