One of my students (14) complains to me daily about how her mom expects so much from her, yet has barely any expectations of her older brother (17). She has to clean and do everyone’s dishes, yet her brother doesn’t have any chores. She works because she has to pay for anything that she wants, including sports equipment, yet her brother has never worked and gets whatever he wants. Her mom hasn’t gone to any of her games, but is at all of her brother’s game. These are just a few examples, but this young lady expressed similar frustration that I’ve heard from many girls. She says when she points out her mom’s unfair parenting, her mom gets upset and starts yelling. Have you experienced this as a child or parent?

“If you don’t trust your child, it is because your child doesn’t trust you” - Diana (a 14 year old)

This weekend, because of the snowstorm, I found myself reflecting on something. I come from Costa Rica, where snow was never part of daily life. I was never a fan of winter, but I always loved short trips to experience it. A year and a half ago, I left behind comfort and familiarity because a dream of mine couldn’t wait any longer. This weekend was my first real experience with a serious weather alert, and I also got the flu, which made it even more challenging. It wasn’t easy, but it reminded me how much discomfort changes us, not just physically, but mentally. I’ve seen many people leave their comfort zones in search of better opportunities. In my case, what drives me is the desire to grow, to become better, and to make a positive impact. Being in New York constantly challenges my mindset, and that friction, as uncomfortable as it is, has been one of my greatest teachers. Having studied psychology and now working closely with young people and families, I see how powerful it is when kids are exposed to healthy challenges. Not pressure, but experiences that stretch them, build resilience, and help them trust themselves. Growth rarely happens in perfect conditions. It happens when we step into uncertainty, adapt, and keep moving forward. It made me think about how important it is for young people to see examples of courage, effort, and intentional living. What kinds of challenges do you feel are helping your child grow the most right now?

How many of you struggle with breaking generational curses when it comes to how you speak to your children or what expectations you’ve set (or not set)? Well here is some humor to show you are not alone lol. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSdhfgiACvt/?igsh=ZnM3enk1YXF5bDVx

Your kids aren’t listening to what you say. They’re watching what you do. If you want them to be confident, they need to see you take care of your body. If you want them to build healthy relationships, they need to see you maintain yours. Confidence is borrowed before it’s built. Kids repeat what they observe, not what they’re told. So here’s the real question: What’s one upgrade you can make in your own life that you’d want your kids to inherit?