Many of us have looping tapes playing in our heads with a soundtrack that's largely negative. With a little practice and some small habits, we can arrest these toxic thoughts before they gain a foothold and hijack our relationships, success, and joy. And, we can teach our kiddos early on how to do this, too!

How we tell our stories determines how we see ourselves and the world. How do we frame a failure or diappointment? How do we recount a struggle? But it's not just all about the spin. In this episode, our conversation covers learning how to tell better, truer stories in order to find those glimmers of joy.

Marcus Warner's book: The Four Habits of Joy-Filled People

In this third episode of our Joy series, we look at the difference between living from a fear-based perspective and one based on joy. We walk through some easy-to-practice skills you (and your kids!) can do to learn the power of appreciation and get back on the path to emotional regulation and calm.

Marcus Warner's book: The Four Habits of Joy-Filled People

In this episode, part 2 of our joy series, we're talking about the first habit we can practice to move out of our "fear house" and into our "joy house." When we feel out of control -- like a toddler whose emotions are all over the place-- there are things we can do to quiet our bodies. Being calm isn't simply a matter of will or choice. When someone simply tells us to "calm down," it usually has the opposite effect! If your day seems to be spiraling, practice some of these calming exercises with your kids!

We hear the slogan "choose joy" tossed around a lot, but is that even possible? In this upcoming series we're unpacking a few habits that we can practice--and help our children practice to get a headstart on things!--to unearth more joy in our lives. Simple and quick habits anyone can do.

Four Habits of Joy-Filled People: 15 Minute Brain Science Hacks to a More Connected and Satisfying Life

This 2-part interview with Traci Condra details her 15+ year marriage with her husband, Kyle, who struggled for years with worsening anger and rage. After years of prayer and counseling, Traci and their two daughters found themselves at a low point, wondering if this was just what life would be like. Then, the But God moment.

National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.

Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft

This 2-part interview with Traci Condra details her 15+ year marriage with her husband, Kyle, who struggled for years with worsening anger and rage. After years of prayer and counseling, Traci and their two daughters found themselves at a low point, wondering if this was just what life would be like.

National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.

Why Does He Do That? by Lundy Bancroft

In the 3rd in our birth order series, we peel back the curtain on the baby of the family. What makes lastborns tick and how might that play out in their marriages and parenting tendencies? Lastborns have advantages and disadvantages that other children in families don't. Plus, they really know how to turn on the charm.