Autumn, Anger, and Advocacy
The wisdom I wish to impart to you this week is about advocating for your own health needs. … You know your own body, and it’s important to speak up if something seems abnormal.
For Teens
Gas Stations, Greed, and a Getaway Vehicle
My “tank empty” warning light came on 13 miles from the next turn of my trip, where I knew for certain I could find fuel. I had no idea if I had enough reserve gas in the tank to make it to the closest gas station…
Hot Drinks, Halloween, and Helping Others
What I want you to see is that if everyone in the world would pick just ONE THING that matters to them and then would step in and help, the world would be a kinder place.
How to Protect Yourself from Physical Danger
(The presenter for this teen workshop was Lieutenant Daniel Francis, who has been working for 15 years in the Chattanooga Police Department. He is also an instructor for basic self-defense.) The very best way to protect your personal safety is to develop the following four strategies: (1) risk awareness, (2) risk reduction, (3) risk recognition, and (4)
How to Talk So Others Will Listen
The way we communicate is very important, because it gives other people one of their first impressions of us and is a key tool for building healthy relationships. Our communication skills demonstrate the level of respect we have for ourselves, our friends, our family, and others we meet.
Planning, Pacing, and Projects
This is the time of year when a person is at great risk of being overcommitted. I want to encourage you to either use the calendar in your phone or a physical planner and block out dates for fun activities, as well as time for just taking care of you.
Potential, Perseverance, and Power
The teen years are among the most challenging in life, because you feel pressed from all sides to know “right now” who you are and what you want to become.
Personal Risk Management Insurance 101
(In our teen workshop on personal risk management, Nick Bosco explained the often-confusing lingo of insurance policies and premiums. With prior careers in engineering and telecommunications, he says that owning a Farmers Insurance agency in Chattanooga for the past seven years is the most rewarding job he’s ever had.)
Fitness, Family, and Focus
Why is it that I can imagine myself exercising to be more healthy…but NEVER do it? If I were to put as much energy into walking my dogs as I do writing my next scene, I would be much farther ahead in my weight loss goals.
Invisibility, Individuality, and Influence
You want to surround yourselves with people who don’t always think like you, but instead challenge you to be your better self. You also want to be strong enough in your own thoughts and opinions that others don’t bowl you over and keep you from your own individuality.