This episode explores the importance of listening and seeking to understand, especially during divisive times.

Key Points:

1. Listen Without Agenda: Approach conversations with curiosity, not judgment, to foster understanding.

2. Psychological Safety: Everyone deserves to express their opinions without fear of retribution or humiliation.

3. Find Common Ground: Even if perspectives differ, shared values may be expressed uniquely.

4. Deep Listening Tips:

- Paraphrase what you hear to show understanding.

- Use silence to encourage deeper expression.

- Practice by observing conversations, even with the TV muted.

Join us tomorrow for Day 5 of this series! Explore deep listening in Shawna’s book Meet Me in the Middle, which is on sale this week and now available on Audible.

👉 Link to the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/e4jCJ1W

Today’s episode of the "7 Days of Sanity" series focuses on the importance of setting healthy boundaries, especially during stressful times like election season. Protecting your energy is essential to maintaining peace and well-being.

Key Points:

1. Understanding Boundaries: Boundaries are not about excluding others but about choosing what you allow into your space, like a fence or gate.

2. Practical Examples: Limit your exposure to potentially draining content (e.g., opt for movies instead of cable TV or restrict phone use).

3. Scripts for Communication: Inform others of your choices without criticizing them (e.g., “I won’t watch the news until after the election to protect my sanity”).

4. Protecting Your Space: Fill your personal space with activities that recharge you, such as cooking or reading.

5. Try This: Set a timer for social media or news consumption and leave the environment when the time is up.

Homework: Set a new boundary today and observe how it impacts your peace. Repeat it if it works for you.

Join us tomorrow for Day 4 of this series! Explore more about boundaries in Shawna’s book Meet Me in the Middle, which is on sale this week and now available on Audible.

👉 Link to the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/e4jCJ1W

In today’s episode of Seven Days of Sanity, we explore managing emotional triggers and the power of responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively. Shawna shares practical strategies to stay grounded during emotionally charged moments—especially in the lead-up to the election.

Key takeaways:

1. Understand the difference between responding vs. reacting.

2. Use breathing techniques and tactile objects (like keys or coins) to discharge emotional energy.

3. Anticipate triggers—prepare responses to maintain your peace in challenging conversations.

4. Align your responses with your personal values and the brand you want to project.

Homework: Identify your common triggers and plan how to respond next time they arise. Take deep breaths, walk away if needed, and maintain your inner calm.

Join us tomorrow for Day 3 of this series! If you'd like to dive deeper into managing emotions, check out Shawna’s book, Meet Me in the Middle, which is on sale this week and is now available on Audible.

👉 Link to the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/e4jCJ1W