Show Summary from April 1, 2020

Cathy Paynter, Educator and Home Economist

With Cathy’s background in education (of adults, teen and children) and life-long learning focus from degrees in education and curriculum, she was the perfect guest to talk with us today as more women are at home either working remotely, parenting/grandparenting or all of the above.

When people fall into totally reactive responses, too often things are said and/or done that we regret. Instead, when critical thinking skills are implemented, the results more positively impact a greater number of people. PLAN…PLAN…PLAN, while allowing for flexibility, can be the difference between success and failure. So here are some productive ways to manage the stress/challenges (See below to get a complete SMART guide and the SMART Checklist):

S — Sensible Scheduling

 If you are working from home or have a new routine at home for various reasons, start your day as if you were going to work or accomplishing what you used to get done before this change. Schedules are particularly important if you are new to working from home and/or if children are home due to the closing of schools.

M — Memorable Moments

Neuroscientist David Eagleman says that when you inject novelty into your life, you prevent the blur. Surprise stretches time. So, break the script and interrupt the blur with moments of elevation. Boost sensory appeal. Think of activities that allow you to be engaged vs. just sitting. Do something different. 

A — Accountable Actions

We all like it when family, friends and co-workers keep their promises—in other words you will be able to count on them. When handled correctly, accountability happens naturally. People own their mistakes and take positive steps forward. Accountability Requires:

• Respectful conversations
• Input from all parties involved
• Specific vs. vague actions/expectations
• Planning…Planning and more Planning, recognizing the need for changes as the situation changes.

R — Responsible Reactions

• Define and analyze the problem
• Identify suggestions to solve the problem
• Choose and evaluate suggestions
• Establish a specific timeline and person/s responsible for each task
• Discuss suggestions, successes and challenges
• Repeat process as needed

T — Try Something New

Larry Alton, Alton Experiences CEO and contributor to Huffington Post, identifies these Benefits of Trying New Things:

• Generally, fear is the primary reason to avoid new things so ask yourself “What if I find it really enjoyable?”
• Trying something new is a great opportunity to find out more about yourself so take the leap.
• Creativity is often the result of trying something new.
• When someone is willing to engage in activities, they become more interesting and it can make you more marketable.