top of page

Search Results

392 results found with an empty search

  • Manic Monday Survival Guide: Singles Edition

    Ah, Manic Monday —the day we collectively sigh and ask, “How is the weekend already over?”  But fear not fellow singles! While others might be starting their week coordinating schedules, managing relationship drama, or meal prepping for two, we can shake off the Monday blues our way. Here’s how to turn a manic Monday into a magnetic Monday  and start the week feeling unstoppable! 1. Start with a Dance Break 💃🎶 Who needs caffeine when you’ve got a personal concert in your bathroom? Blast your favorite hype song—whether it’s Beyoncé reminding you that you’re that girl  or classic throwback jams that make you want to jump around. Dancing while getting ready is the ultimate mood booster. Bonus points if you belt out the lyrics at full volume. 2. Upgrade Your Coffee Game Monday mornings hit differently when you treat yourself to something special. Skip the bland office coffee and grab that extra fancy latte—yes, the one with extra whipped cream, oat milk, or caramel drizzle. You deserve it. 3. Flirt With Your Schedule One of the best parts of being single? No one else’s plans dictate yours. Want to book a spontaneous happy hour? Done. Would you prefer to hit the gym after work? Go for it. Do you feel like cozying up with a book and ordering takeout? Absolutely. Your time, your rules. 4. Send That Bold Text Crushing on someone? Slide into their DMs or send a flirty text. Mondays don’t have to be about work and routine—shake things up with excitement. Worst case scenario? You’re still fabulous, and they’re missing out. 5. Romance Yourself Who says romance is reserved for relationships? Buy yourself flowers ( cue Miley Cyrus ), book a massage, or indulge in a luxurious bubble bath. Take yourself on a solo dinner date and enjoy your own company. You don’t need a plus-one to feel special—love yourself first! 6. Channel Your Main Character Energy Being single isn’t about waiting—it’s about thriving. Walk into this week knowing you’re your story’s main character. Whether that means making bold career moves, planning your next adventure, or simply enjoying the freedom to live on your own terms, own it! So, Manic Monday? Nah, let’s call it Magnetic Monday —because you’re radiating confidence and good vibes all week. https://youtu.be/SsmVgoXDq2w?si=iTAvsSVLTWPwotda Tag a single friend who needs this reminder, and let’s make Monday magic! ✨ #ManicMonday #SingleAndThriving #MainCharacterEnergy #MagneticMonday 4o

  • Are You Really Ready to Date Again?

    Dating after a breakup, divorce, or long period of being single can feel like stepping onto a rollercoaster—exciting, nerve-wracking, and occasionally nauseating. One minute you’re swiping with confidence, and the next, you’re wondering if you’re truly ready to put yourself back out there. So, how do you know if it’s time to dive back in or if you need a little more healing before taking the plunge? 1. Are You Dating to Heal or Because You’ve Healed? It’s tempting to rush into dating as a distraction from heartbreak or loneliness, but dating should be an addition to your happiness, not a bandage for old wounds. If you’re still checking your ex’s social media, comparing every potential date to them, or feeling the need to prove something, you might need more time. Actual readiness comes when you’re dating for connection, not for validation. 2. Do You Know What You Want? Are you looking for something casual? A serious relationship? Just dipping your toe in the water? Understanding your intentions before dating can save you (and others) from unnecessary confusion. If you’re unsure about what you want, that’s okay—but it might mean you need more time to figure that out before dragging someone else into your uncertainty. 3. Are You Comfortable Being Alone? Being content with your company is a good sign that you’re ready to date again. If you feel desperate for companionship, you might seek someone to fill a void rather than complement your life. The best relationships happen when two whole people come together, not when one person is searching for someone to “complete” them. 4. Do You Feel Secure in Yourself? Dating can be a confidence game. Are you entering the dating world feeling good about yourself or hoping someone else’s attention will make you feel worthy? You're in a great place to date if you’re confident in who you are, what you bring to the table, and what you deserve. 5. Are You Willing to Be Vulnerable? Dating requires opening yourself up to new experiences—and, yes, potential rejection. If you’re still emotionally guarded or scared of getting hurt, it might be worth working through those fears before jumping in. You don’t have to be 100% fearless, but you should at least be open to connection. 6. Can You Accept That Not Every Date Will Lead to “The One”? Some dates will be great, and others… not so much. If you can roll with the ups and downs of dating without taking it personally or feeling defeated, you’re in a healthy place to start meeting new people. 7. Do You Have Boundaries in Place? Boundaries are your best friend in the dating world. Do you know what behaviors you won’t tolerate? Are you clear on what a red flag is for you? Having firm boundaries and sticking to them means you’re ready to navigate dating in a way that protects your peace. So, Are You Ready? If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, it might be time to start putting yourself out there. But if you still feel uncertain, there’s no rush. Take your time, do the inner work, and trust that dating will feel more like an exciting possibility than a daunting task when you're truly ready. And when you do decide to jump back in, remember that dating should be fun! Keep an open mind, stay true to yourself, and don’t settle for anything less than what you deserve. Are you ready to date again or still on the fence? Let’s dish in the comments!

  • You Could Have Had Me, However You Don't Deserve Me

    The Awakening of Self-Worth Looking back, I see a time when I tried hard to hold onto a love that promised endless possibilities but delivered disappointment instead. I was ready to give my time, energy, and heart. Yet, despite that, there came a moment when the truth became undeniable: you could have had me, but you didn’t understand the depth of what you were being offered. That realization wasn’t bitter; it was liberating. It was the beginning of understanding that self-worth isn’t something to bargain with. Instead, it’s a treasure that should never be compromised. Learning the Hard Lessons Heartbreak is often painted in shades of pain, but it also serves as a profound teacher. Every tear, every sleepless night, and every pang of regret carries with it a lesson on what we truly deserve. I learned love isn’t about holding on to someone who fails to honor you. Instead, it’s about knowing when to let go so you can find someone who cherishes you precisely as you are. When someone disses your value or takes you for granted, you must stand firm in the truth: you deserve a love that uplifts you, not diminishes your spirit. Embracing the Future With Confidence Moving forward isn’t about erasing the past; it’s about integrating its lessons into a more substantial, wiser version of yourself. Each setback taught me the importance of setting boundaries and protecting my heart. It’s a reminder that not everyone who crosses our path is meant to be a part of our journey. Today, I stand confident, knowing that if someone fails to appreciate all I offer, it’s not a reflection of my inadequacy—it’s a testament to their inability to recognize actual value. I am complete on my own, and any love that comes my way in the future will be built on mutual respect and genuine care. A Call to All Who’ve Been Wronged To anyone who has ever felt undervalued or taken for granted, remember that your heart is a precious gem. Love should never require you to dim your light or compromise your essence. If someone tells you—or if you ever feel—that you could have had them, but they don’t deserve you, let that be the spark that ignites a journey toward self-love and acceptance. Stand tall, celebrate your worth, and never settle for less than you deserve. The right person will recognize and honor your brilliance, cherishing every part of who you are. In the end, the beauty of life lies in its lessons. Embracing our experiences, both joyful and painful, allows us to grow into stronger, more resilient beings. You could have had me however, you don't deserve me—a truth not of defeat but of empowerment. Let that truth guide you as you step confidently into the future with the knowledge that you are irreplaceable. Sadly, when you do not appreciate the gifts you have, they go away. So as Jo Koy says "Bye, Bye" Do not settle my peeps!

  • Defining Non-Negotiables in Your Next Relationship: The Blueprint for Authentic Connection

    When it comes to matters of the heart, knowing what you truly need can transform your dating journey. Often, we hear about compromise and flexibility in relationships—and while these qualities are invaluable, having clear non-negotiables can serve as the foundation for a healthy, lasting partnership. In this blog post, we’ll explore what non-negotiables are, why they matter, and how to define them for your next relationship. What Are Non-Negotiables? Non-negotiables are the essential qualities, values, and boundaries you require in a relationship. They are the aspects you simply can’t compromise on because they reflect your deepest sense of self and what you need to thrive. Unlike preferences or desires that might be flexible, non-negotiables are the deal-breakers. They could include: Core Values:  Honesty, integrity, kindness, or shared spiritual beliefs. Communication Style:  The need for open dialogue, conflict resolution, or emotional vulnerability. Lifestyle Choices:  Views on family, finances, or personal growth. Boundaries:  Respect for personal space, time, and individuality. Establishing these non-negotiables sets a clear standard for what you expect in a partner and protects your emotional well-being from potential compromises that could lead to resentment over time. The Importance of Defining Your Non-Negotiables 1. Clarity in Self-Reflection Before you can communicate your needs to someone else, it’s important to understand them yourself. Ask yourself: What values do I hold dear? What behaviors or attitudes will I not accept? How do I envision a respectful, supportive relationship? Taking time for introspection helps you build a clearer picture of your relationship blueprint, ensuring that you pursue connections that align with your authentic self. 2. Empowerment and Self-Worth Knowing and asserting your non-negotiables is an act of self-respect. It reminds you that your needs are valid and that you deserve a partnership that honors them. This empowerment can bolster your confidence, enabling you to set healthy boundaries and avoid settling for less than you deserve. 3. Effective Communication Once you’ve identified your non-negotiables, the next step is sharing them with potential partners. Open, honest conversations about your values and boundaries can prevent misunderstandings down the road. Remember, the right person will respect and appreciate your clarity. Steps to Define Your Non-Negotiables 1. Reflect on Past Experiences Consider your past relationships—what worked and what didn’t? Identify patterns or recurring issues. Understanding these can offer clues about what you need to change and what is non-negotiable for you in the future. 2. List Your Core Values Write down the values that are most important to you. Think about the principles that guide your decisions and shape your identity. These core values often serve as the backbone of your non-negotiables. 3. Set Clear Boundaries Establish what behaviors or circumstances you cannot tolerate. Whether it’s disrespect, dishonesty, or lack of emotional support, being clear about your boundaries will make it easier to spot red flags early on. 4. Visualize Your Ideal Relationship Imagine a partnership where both individuals thrive. What qualities would the ideal partner possess? How would they communicate, resolve conflicts, or support your personal growth? Use this vision as a benchmark for your non-negotiables. 5. Practice Assertive Communication Once you’re clear about your non-negotiables, practice expressing them assertively. Role-playing scenarios or journaling can be effective ways to build confidence in discussing these important topics with potential partners. Integrating Non-Negotiables into Your Dating Journey Screening Early:  Incorporate your non-negotiables into early conversations with potential partners. It could be as simple as asking about their views on honesty, commitment, or life goals. Mindful Observation:  Look for signs that align—or conflict—with your non-negotiables. Often, actions speak louder than words. Reevaluation:  As you grow and evolve, so might your non-negotiables. Revise and adjust them to ensure they remain true to your evolving self. Embracing the Journey Defining your non-negotiables isn’t about creating a rigid checklist; it’s about honoring yourself and cultivating a relationship that celebrates who you truly are. The right relationship will not only embrace your non-negotiables but will also inspire you to continue growing into the best version of yourself. Remember, every journey is personal. By establishing and communicating your non-negotiables, you set the stage for a partnership that’s built on mutual respect, deep understanding, and lasting connection. Happy dating!

  • "I’m Not Ready for Anything"—But You’re on Tinder? Yeah, That Sucks.

    There’s nothing quite like the gut punch of getting a text that says, “I’m not ready for anything right now,”  only to see that same person swiping away on Tinder later. It’s like being told, “It’s not you, it’s me,”  while they’re actively browsing for someone new. And honestly? That sucks. The Classic Mixed-Signal Move When someone says they’re not ready for a relationship, we usually take it at face value. We assume they need time, space, and healing—whatever the case. We respect that. But then, a wild dating profile appears. Suddenly, their need for “time”  feels like a convenient excuse rather than an honest reflection of where they’re at. Let’s be honest: why are you in the dating pool if you're not ready? Why are you entertaining new connections while telling me, “It’s just not the right time” ? It feels like a cruel joke—like someone pressing pause on you while hitting play with everyone else. The Harsh Reality: You Weren’t the One He Wasn’t Ready For This part stings, but sometimes, “I’m not ready”  means “I’m not ready for you.”  And that’s a hard pill to swallow. Because if they were genuinely uninterested in dating, they wouldn’t be on an app built specifically for that. Instead, they’re keeping their options open, waiting for something that feels  right to them—while leaving you in emotional limbo. That’s not fair. That’s not kind. And that’s not the kind of energy you need in your life. So What Do You Do? First, recognize that this says more about them than you. Someone who genuinely respects you wouldn’t feed you a line while playing the field. They wouldn’t string you with half-truths while swiping for their next distraction. Second, take this as the clarity you need. Why should you waste another second waiting around if they're looking elsewhere? Be with someone who wants  to be with you, not someone who leaves you questioning your worth. And finally, remember: you don’t have to settle for mixed signals. The right person won’t make you feel like an option—they’ll make you a priority. So, to the guy who isn’t “ready”  but somehow manages to be Tinder-ready—best of luck. But I won’t be waiting. Bye-Bye!

  • Domestic Violence: We Do NOT Stand for It

    Domestic violence is a crisis that affects millions of people, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. It doesn’t just happen behind closed doors—it’s in our communities, our workplaces, and even among our friends and family. The reality is chilling, but the message must be clear: we don’t stand for it. The Reality of Domestic Violence According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), nearly 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. But domestic violence isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, psychological, financial, and verbal. It’s about control, manipulation, and power. Victims often feel trapped, ashamed, and scared to leave. Abusers use intimidation, threats, and even financial dependence to maintain control. But silence only fuels the cycle, and the more we ignore it, the more it thrives. Breaking the Silence For too long, society has treated domestic violence as a private issue, something to be handled behind closed doors. But domestic violence is a human rights issue, a public health crisis, and a legal matter.  Speaking up can save lives. If you suspect someone is experiencing abuse, believe them. Offer support, not judgment. Please encourage them to seek professional help and resources. And if you are in an abusive situation, know that help is available, and you are not alone. Resources for Help: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, here are resources available 24/7: National Resources (U.S.) National Domestic Violence Hotline  – Call 800-799-SAFE (7233)  or text START  to 88788 | www.thehotline.org Love Is Respect  (for young people in abusive relationships) – Call 866-331-9474 , text LOVEIS  to 22522 | www.loveisrespect.org StrongHearts Native Helpline  (for Indigenous communities) – Call 844-7NATIVE (762-8483)  | www.strongheartshelpline.org RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)  – Call 800-656-HOPE (4673)  | www.rainn.org Futures Without Violence  – Advocacy, prevention, and policy resources | www.futureswithoutviolence.org National Center for Victims of Crime  – Legal and emotional support | www.victimsofcrime.org Resources for Women Women’s Law  – Legal support for domestic violence survivors | www.womenslaw.org WomensLaw Email Hotline  – Legal assistance through confidential emails | www.womenslaw.org/emailhotline Resources for Men The Domestic Abuse Helpline for Men & Women  – Call 888-7HELPLINE (743-5754)  | www.dahmw.org Resources for LGBTQ+ Individuals The Anti-Violence Project  – Support for LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing domestic violence – Call 212-714-1141  | www.avp.org Forge Forward  – Resources for transgender and nonbinary survivors | www.forge-forward.org International Resources UN Women  – Global efforts to end domestic violence | www.unwomen.org Canadian Women’s Foundation  – Support for survivors in Canada | www.canadianwomen.org Women’s Aid UK  – Domestic abuse services in the UK | www.womensaid.org.uk 1800RESPECT  (Australia) – National domestic, family, and sexual violence service – Call 1800 737 732  | www.1800respect.org.au We must educate, advocate, and act.  We don’t stand for domestic violence, and we won’t tolerate a culture that allows it to continue. Whether supporting survivors, demanding policy changes, or raising awareness, we all have a role to play. Let’s be the generation that ends the silence. Let’s stand together. Let's work not to lose one more person!

  • Healing Your Heart and Soul After a Breakup

    Breakups or Divorces are never easy. Whether you saw it coming or were blindsided, the end of a relationship can feel like a storm rolling through your life, leaving behind a mess of emotions, memories, and unanswered questions. But within the wreckage, there's an opportunity— a chance to heal, to rediscover yourself, and to come out stronger on the other side. Pain isn’t something to be rushed or ignored. You have to feel it to heal it. Allow yourself to grieve the relationship, the lost future you imagined, and the parts of yourself that were tied to your partner. Cry, journal, scream into a pillow—whatever helps you process the emotions instead of suppressing them. Crying can be one of the healthiest methods; do not hold it in, let it roll. It’s tempting to check their social media, revisit old texts, or replay memories like a highlight reel. But every time you do, you reopen the wound. Set firm boundaries with yourself—unfollow, mute, or even block if necessary. Protect your healing space. Your healing space is yours; do not let people tell you what to do; you know what you need to find yourself again; no matter what you do, you will learn from this experience. You can lean on friends and family; you don’t have to do this alone. Surround yourself with people who remind you of your worth—friends who make you laugh, family who give you perspective, or even a therapist who can help you navigate the emotional waves. Heartbreak isn’t just emotional; it’s physical, too. Get moving—take a walk, go to a yoga class, or dance around your living room. Eat foods that nourish you instead of comfort-eating your way through the pain. Sleep when you need to. Your body and mind are deeply connected, and caring for one helps heal the other. Almost every time I've felt sad, I get up and move, even during the cold. It’s easy to think about what you could have done differently, but the truth is that relationships end for a reason. Whether it was incompatibility, timing, or circumstances, dwelling on the "what ifs" will not change the outcome. Accept the lessons, not the regrets. Healing doesn’t mean you need to jump into another relationship right away. It means being open—to new experiences, to new friendships, to new love when the time is right. Your heart isn’t permanently broken; it’s just learning to beat itself again. Breakups can leave you feeling lost, but they also allow you to prioritize yourself in ways you may not have before. Show up for yourself, be kind, and remember that your happiness does not depend on someone else—it starts with you. Healing takes time, but every day is a step forward. And one day, you’ll look back and realize that this wasn’t just a heartbreak but a breakthrough. Stay strong!

  • Owning Your Singledom: Thriving on National Singles Awareness Day Playlist

    This ultimate singles empowerment playlist  blends classic anthems with modern hits to remind you that being single is a strength, not a status to change: You Don’t Own Me  – Lesley Gore (1963) Hit the Road Jack  – Ray Charles (1961) Respect  – Aretha Franklin (1967) I Will Survive  – Gloria Gaynor (1978) My Life  – Billy Joel (1978) Go Your Own Way  – Fleetwood Mac (1976) Don’t Stop Me Now  – Queen (1978) I’m Still Standing  – Elton John (1983) Love Is a Battlefield  – Pat Benatar (1983) Dancing with Myself  – Billy Idol (1980) It’s Raining Men  – The Weather Girls (1982) Express Yourself  – Madonna (1989) No Scrubs  – TLC (1999) Believe  – Cher (1998) Miss Independent  – Ne-Yo (2007) Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)  – Beyoncé (2008) Since U Been Gone  – Kelly Clarkson (2004) Raise Your Glass  – P!nk (2010) So What  – P!nk (2008) Shake It Off  – Taylor Swift (2014) New Rules  – Dua Lipa (2017) Truth Hurts  – Lizzo (2019) Flowers  – Miley Cyrus (2023) Vampire  – Olivia Rodrigo (2023) Trustfall  – P!nk (2023) I Am Woman  – Emmy Meli (2021) Unstoppable  – Sia (2022) Livin’ on a Prayer  – Bon Jovi (1986) Eye of the Tiger  – Survivor (1982) Let's rock it out this National Singles Awareness Day! Because ultimately, we are all badass rockstars! xoxo Erin

  • Single on Valentine’s Day… Again?! A Survival Guide

    Ah, Valentine’s Day. That annual love-fest where couples parade their affection while the rest of us—single yet again—brace for an avalanche of heart-shaped chocolates, overpriced flowers, and social media posts dripping with romance. If you’re rolling solo this year (again), let’s talk about how to survive and thrive  on the day dedicated to love. First of All, You’re Not Alone Statistically speaking, there are millions of single people on Valentine’s Day, so let’s ditch the notion that this is some exclusive couples-only holiday. If anything, it’s a reminder that love comes in many forms—not just the romantic kind. Redefine the Meaning of the Day Valentine’s Day is ultimately about love, including self-love, platonic love, and even the love of a good Netflix binge. Instead of feeling left out, make it a day to celebrate you . Buy flowers, treat yourself to a luxurious meal, or indulge in whatever makes you feel appreciated—because you deserve it. Host a “Singles Appreciation” Celebration If you have single friends, gather them for a fun, anti-Valentine celebration. Have a wine and cheese night, watch happily-ever-after-free  movies, or exchange “Galentine’s” or “Palentine’s” gifts. Make it a night of laughter and camaraderie instead of moping. Treat Yourself Like You’d Want a Partner to Treat You Why not do it yourself instead of waiting for someone else to spoil you? Order your favorite dessert, book a spa treatment, buy that gift you’ve been eyeing—because you’re just as worthy of love and care as anyone in a relationship. Unplug from Social Media (If You Need To) Scrolling through a feed filled with candlelit dinners and gushy captions might not be your vibe. Instead, allow yourself to avoid constant reminders and focus on genuine connections. Call a friend, go on an adventure, or spend time doing something that brings you joy. Remember: Being Single can be great! Society often highlights Valentine’s Day as a celebration of couples, but being single isn’t a setback—it’s an exciting chapter in your journey. It’s a time of growth, self-discovery, and the freedom to shape your life exactly how you want. Every experience, whether shared or solo, brings you closer to the people and moments that truly align with your happiness. So this Valentine’s Day, instead of feeling “single again,” think of it as another opportunity to love yourself, celebrate your independence, and embrace the possibilities ahead. After all, the best love story you’ll ever have starts with you.

  • The Best Ways to Communicate With Your Ex (and Leave the Kids Out of It)

    Co-parenting with an ex can feel like navigating a minefield—one wrong step, and BOOM. Emotions flare, misunderstandings happen, and suddenly, your once peaceful day is anything but. One of the biggest mistakes people make? Using the kids as messengers, leverage, or emotional support. Your children deserve to be just that—kids. They shouldn't be responsible for passing messages, refereeing conflicts, or carrying the weight of your frustrations. So, how do you communicate effectively with your ex without dragging the kids into the mix? Here are the best ways to keep things clear, civil, and—most importantly—kid-free. 1. Use a Co-Parenting App There are several co-parenting apps designed to streamline communication and minimize conflict. Apps like OurFamilyWizard, Talking Parents, and Cozi  allow you to schedule visits, track expenses, and send messages without miscommunication. Bonus? The messages are time-stamped and can't be altered, which helps keep things accountable and drama-free. 2. Stick to Business Treat your communication like a business transaction. Keep emotions out of it. Stick to the facts, be direct, and avoid unnecessary personal commentary. If you wouldn’t say it in an email to a colleague, don’t tell your ex. Example: "I can't believe you forgot to pick up Johnny again. You're so irresponsible!" ✅ "Johnny's pick-up was at 3:00 PM today. Can we confirm future times to avoid confusion?" 3. Email Over Text Texts can be impulsive and emotionally charged, leading to misinterpretation and heated arguments. Email allows for more thought-out responses and provides a written record. If you must text, keep it short, clear, and only about logistics. 4. Establish Boundaries Set clear guidelines for communication: No calling or texting after a specific time unless it's an emergency. No discussing personal lives—stick to parenting matters. No engaging in arguments via text. If tensions rise, take a step back and respond later. Boundaries protect your mental peace and prevent unnecessary conflict. 5. Designate a Neutral Third Party (If Necessary) If direct communication is impossible without tension, consider using a mutual friend, family member, or mediator for essential discussions. This works well in high-conflict situations where every exchange turns into a battle. 6. Use a Shared Calendar Instead of constant back-and-forth texts about schedules, keep everything in one place. Google Calendar, Cozi, or a shared paper planner can help keep track of school events, vacations, and custody schedules without unnecessary conversations. 7. Keep It Short and Sweet Less is more when dealing with an ex. Keep messages brief and to the point. The more words, the higher the chances of misinterpretation. If they send a long, emotional message, don’t match their energy. Reply with only what’s necessary. 8. Don’t Vent to Your Kids Your kids should never be your sounding board regarding your ex. Call a friend, talk to a therapist, or write in a journal if you need to vent. Your child should never feel they must take sides or fix your problems. 9. Focus on the Goal The goal is to co-parent effectively. It’s not about who “wins” the conversation or proving a point. It’s about raising happy, healthy kids in a stable environment. If a message isn’t productive, don’t send it. 10. Know When to Walk Away Not every message requires an immediate response. If your ex is pushing your buttons, take a deep breath, step away, and reply when you’re calm. Silence can be powerful when used wisely. Co-parenting isn’t always easy, but keeping your communication clean, respectful, and kid-free will make it smoother for everyone involved. Your kids deserve to be shielded from adult conflicts, and by handling things maturely, you set an example of how to deal with challenging situations gracefully. And if your ex refuses to cooperate? Keep doing your part. Lead by example. Your kids will thank you for it.

  • Navigating Matters of Opinion: Finding Harmony Amid Differences

    In today’s world, we’re constantly surrounded by diverse perspectives. Whether it’s family discussions, debates with friends, or conversations at work, we often encounter differing opinions. Navigating these differences isn’t always easy, but learning to handle them gracefully and understanding is key to building stronger relationships and a more tolerant society. Here are some essential tips for embracing and navigating differences of opinion. Approach with an Open Mind: It’s natural to want to defend your beliefs, but approaching discussions with curiosity rather than defensiveness can open new doors. Instead of focusing on why someone disagrees, try to understand their perspective. Asking questions like, “What led you to that opinion?” or “Can you share more about your experience?” can deepen your understanding and show respect. Recognize the Difference Between Facts and Opinions: Sometimes, conversations get heated because we confuse opinions with facts. A fact is a verifiable truth, whereas an opinion is a personal belief. By keeping this distinction in mind, we can engage more thoughtfully and avoid unnecessary arguments. Respecting others’ rights to their opinions, even if you disagree, is essential in fostering mutual respect. Embrace Empathy: Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes can be transformative. Empathy doesn’t mean you have to agree, but it allows you to connect with the person behind the opinion. Acknowledging the emotions or experiences that shape someone’s beliefs can lead to more compassionate, constructive conversations. Know When to Agree to Disagree : Not every conversation will end in consensus, and that’s okay. Sometimes, the best outcome is to acknowledge that you see things differently. Recognizing that it’s OK to leave specific discussions unresolved is part of mature communication. This approach can preserve relationships, especially when the topic is not central to the relationship itself. Avoid Labels and Stereotypes : When disagreements arise, it’s easy to label or stereotype those with differing views. This can create an “us versus them” mentality, eroding trust and making meaningful dialogue harder. Instead of seeing people as “right” or “wrong,” view them as complex individuals with their own stories and experiences. Be Willing to Change Your Perspective: It’s rare, but not impossible, that we might change our opinions after hearing new viewpoints. Being open to shifting your perspective, even slightly, can be liberating and lead to growth. At the very least, it shows the other person that you value their input and are committed to personal growth. Set Boundaries: Some topics can be particularly sensitive or triggering. Setting boundaries around discussions that could lead to unnecessary conflict can be beneficial. It’s okay to tell someone, “I’d prefer not to discuss this,” or “Let’s focus on what we agree on.” Healthy boundaries can preserve relationships and keep conversations positive. Remember the Bigger Picture: Often, our disagreements are a small part of a much larger relationship. Focusing on what you share with someone rather than what divides you can help you see things in perspective. When we value relationships over being “right,” we’re better equipped to handle differences in a way that enriches our connections. Differences in opinion are natural, and navigating them well can be a rewarding experience. By engaging with curiosity, empathy, and respect, we can turn potential conflicts into opportunities for connection, learning, and growth. After all, our relationships are strengthened not by our similarities but by how well we respect and embrace our differences. How do you handle or did you handle the differences in your most recent or past relationships?

  • Family Navigation

    Let’s face it, when you have family surrounding you during and post-divorce, it's wise to ensure they're supportive and NOT getting out of line. This is your life and your situation, not theirs. But families are complicated, and depending on how many siblings, parents, step-parents, grandparents, cousins, etc., you surround yourself with, everyone has an opinion, and few of them have filters when it comes to adding their two cents worth. How often have I heard “hear me out” from loving family members who have listened to my stories and either immediately commented or thought about it? At least 100. And whether they tell you what they believe in the moment or later on, trust me, they WILL voice their opinion. Whether you agree with their comments, here's the deal: Stick to your standards and your comfort level. And as we enter the holiday season - hallelujah to those who can jet off somewhere family-free! - most of us will face family members, those who are supportive and those who are not. Take some time beforehand to think about how you will handle unwanted opinions of your current situation when you're all together. It’s easy to fly off the handle when people tell you crap you don't want to hear, but bite your lip, keep your cool and focus on what's best for everyone. You'll thank yourself after it's all said and done. Here are a few things you can say to help you through these times. My advice: memorize them! “I appreciate your concern, and I hear you." “We want to keep this part of our divorce private." “I know you love me and want the best; thank you for being here." If someone shames your ex: “I understand your concerns about (insert name); however, we're working together to do what's best for everyone." “Though this is difficult for everyone to understand, we know you care and love us, which I really appreciate.” “I want to enjoy the holidays, and I’m taking it daily. I want to enjoy this time with the family rather than talk about the details of my divorce.” “Thank you for being here for me, but I'd rather not discuss the past right now.” Then turn it around and ask about THEM. Redirection works wonders! Remember to hang tough because everyone has an opinion, and you must ensure that while they may have good intentions, you create boundaries when discussing your situation. For Pete's sake, it's your life, not theirs. OK, that stated, I wanna know your favorite: Traditional turkey with all the trimmings or made-from-scratch, 5-layer lasagna?!

  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Contact us at erin@divorceedish.com or 502.774.0767

©2025   Divorcee Dish, DBA DULLAGHAN INK. All rights reserved.

bottom of page