Hi, friends 👋🏽. I’m Stacy Casson, Chief Play Officer at Things to Think About. As a mom of five who also held a full-time job, I used to hold a PhD in creating chaos. Now, I help other busy, overwhelmed parents have peaceful evenings and avoid dramatic mornings. I discovered that by applying organizational principles through play, I could reduce my mental load, stop nagging, and finally move from overwhelm to action. You set the tone for your kids, and I can help you set a calm one. Let’s get started.
Celebrate Your Wins
Pause for a moment:
What’s one thing you accomplished this week—big or small?
- Did your kid do a chore without you having to nag them?
- Did you finally check out that new restaurant?
- Did you hold a boundary?
Drop your win in the comments or share it with a friend!
My wins: I announced my launch party for my new group coaching program and set up my first community. Reflecting on your wins helps to energize you when you are drained.
Every week, we explore a Tarot card because Tarot is rich in symbology and helps us to tap into our intuition. Reflecting on the card and noting what comes to mind is a metaphorical form of brainstorming that can provide insights when problem-solving.
Card of the Week: Six of Wands
A person is riding victoriously on a horse holding a staff adorned with a laurel wreath. People walk beside the rider, and one of them looks up in awe. It may not feel like it, as you curse under your breath as you step on a Lego™, but you are doing a good job. Not everyone is cut out to be a parent, and you aren’t giving yourself enough credit. It’s hard to be in the spotlight. We focus on our failures and ignore the fact that you made a dollar stretch farther than an elastic waistband.
The Pattern It Reveals
As parents, we often worry that we are going to mess up our kids because of all the mistakes we are making. We put on a brave face and fake it till we make it. One day, I was substitute teaching at a school, and the school lost power and internet. It was hot. The kids were perched near the window, trying to feel cooler. Do you know the first person they wanted to call? You. Their parents. Your kids look to you in a crisis and trust that you will have answers.
The Question Worth Asking
When was the last time you celebrated your wins?
One Small Experiment to Try This Week
Write down at least ten successes, no matter how big or small, before you go to bed. If you bought groceries, your kids have something to eat. Win. If your kids went to bed. Win. If you went on a date with your partner. Win. If your kid gave you a hug today. Win. I want you to remind yourself of your wins, because it’s all too easy to focus on your perceived flaws. Your kids are watching and will pick up on how you show up in the world. You are their role model. It’s time to step into your role as family leader. Get back on the horse and hold your head high.
Ready to Have a Community?
Parenting can be isolating. You may feel like you are the only one who ever forgot that it was your day to be the room parent. You are doing your best. You probably just need a nap. You don’t have to parent alone. I’m hosting a launch party for my new group coaching program. Let the Arrow Fly. It is a live, honest conversation with parents who are carrying too much and ready to put some of it down. Sign up today using this link, as spots are limited.
P.S.
I’ve also launched a community, just for you. It’s called Peaceful Parent, a virtual hideaway where you can let your hair down and relax in a supportive space. Join today.
