December 2017
Trans4ming News
Is It Really the Most Wonderful Time of the Year?
During this time of year many of us transform into overexerted people with endless lists and gatherings. It can be quite difficult to reign in our anxiety and stress and focus on what is most important. Is it really possible to do less, or do we need to look at making healthier choices? Sometimes the answer is not as easy as it would seem. Sometimes what we need is a gentle reminder in the “how to” category. Here’s a simple plan:
SIT - BREATHE - BE STILL - FOCUS

So, I encourage you to sit...

Take a breath in and release it slowly...


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Be still...

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Focus.


Need an idea of what to focus on? Try Rainbow Days' Major Messages. Once we learn them, we can teach the children and youth in our lives. And, of course, the best way to teach is to model!

I AM likable, capable, unique and valued
I CAN treat others the way I want to be treated
I HAVE strengths, capabilities and people who care about me
I WILL make healthy choices and be alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free
I BELIEVE I have a purpose

Let’s take these major messages a step further as we look at what matters most to us during the holiday season and beyond. My mind is one of those crazy ones that will create acrostics continuously. As I was thinking on this newsletter article I visualized the name of our training division, The Trans4m Center, and I began to think of ways we might want to transform our lists and gatherings into something simpler or more meaningful. Maybe we need to start by asking ourselves a couple of questions, “Do I have a desire to transform?” and, “What specifically do I want to transform?” If you answered yes or identified a needed transformation, here are some ways you can begin to make changes.

T reasure time with family and friends – holiday rituals give kids a sense of security, continuity, and safety. 

I HAVE strengths, capabilities and people who care about me.


R emember those who are less fortunate – volunteer together as a family and at the same time you will teach the importance of giving back. 

I CAN treat others the way I want to be treated.


A lways show kindness – We rise by lifting others – Robert Ingersoll

I BELIEVE I have a purpose.


N ame at least one thing for which you are grateful - adj. warmly or deeply appreciative; thankful 

I AM likable, capable, unique, and valued.


S chedule time for yourself – remember the “me” in merry! – David R. Topor, PhD

I WILL make healthy choices and be alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free.


4 get about perfection – Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are. – Brene Brown

I WILL make healthy choices and be alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free.


M easure your words – Our tongue has the power to build or to destroy. - PJVIncent

I CAN treat others the way I want to be treated.

I want to end with one more “to-do”. Wait a minute; haven’t we been discussing doing less?? Well, maybe we haven’t been talking about doing less as much as we’ve been talking about doing what is best. You know, making healthier choices!

It’s time I put in a good word for LAUGHTER !! I just love that there is research that proves laughter keeps us healthier. We can watch a funny movie, tell jokes, and play a board game with friends or family. These changes are really not that hard, but they may take a concerted effort. Want more reasons to laugh ?

Do you want to transform? Are you ready to transform? Or, maybe you just need a little break from all that is hectic. Find the time for self-care during the holidays and you will find yourself being a kinder person to everyone who comes along your path. You just might carry these new found transformative qualities into the new year. After all, it might actually become the most wonderful time of the year!
May you and yours have a blessed holiday season,
Kathy Daley
Consulting Trainer
Training Calendar
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Fun, Exciting Classroom Guidance Activities!
Tuesday, January 23, 2018

This highly interactive and experiential workshop will focus on activities that School Counselors, CIS Social Workers, After-School Program Facilitators, Faith Leaders, and Parent-Ed Coordinators can use to: 
  • Engage youth, adults, and families
  • Develop and enhance new skills, like communication, problem solving, team work, stress Management, leadership, etc.
  • Establish or maintain connections within the community
  • Give alternatives for drug, alcohol, and tobacco use
  • Teach and have fun!

Participants will leave with dozens of new activities for their tool belt. This workshop will be very interactive, so dress comfortably and be prepared to have FUN!
 
$50 per person

Choose between the
Morning session, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
OR
Afternoon session, 1:00 - 4:00 pm
We Want to Hear from YOU! 
Have you been facilitating the CBSG Program with children and/or youth and have some success stories you would be willing to share? We would love to hear your stories of the lives you are changing for the better!!

Please email Sandi McFarland and you might see your story in a future Trans4ming News newsletter!

Please remember to not share specific details or names. A Permission to Print form will be sent to individuals whose stories have been chosen.
The Trans4m Center | 214.887.0726 | trans4mcenter.org
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