With a teenager and a preteen now, plus the aftermath of the Palisades fires in January, I’m finding that staying positive is imperative! Focusing on what we say and keeping it intentionally favorable and encouraging, despite the stress that may be swirling in our minds like a real-life tornado, can be the difference in a hopeful future or a tragic disappointment. If we want our circumstances to change for the better, we must first speak words of goodness that will impact what’s to come. Highlights:

  Why our words matter more than we think

  Shifting from reaction to reflection 

  Language shapes our relationships, and our confidence

  You best hope you catch yourself (before saying something unhelpful)

  The power of replacing criticism with curiosity