The 8th & 9th "C's": Curiosity & Creativity are Soul Mates

There’s such beauty and wonder in observing the natural curiosity of babies and toddlers!  I feel lifted up and very aware of a greater power.  We were all born with the gifts of joy, laughter, curiosity and, yes, creativity (imagination). 

If we’re really lucky, the “outer-world” won’t beat it out of us entirely by the time we reach adulthood.

Add a bit of scepticism, but nurture the natural curiosity of childhood.  Be that child.  If you can do that, you’ll have a better chance of nurturing curiosity and passion in your kids.

From Curiosity flows Creativity.  The possibilities are limitless.  As young parents, we didn’t have much money for toys.  It’s amazing what little ones can do with a box, pots & pans, sheets and towels!  As young entrepreneurs without money, we created a unique and successful business from curiosity, ideas, ideals, imagination and passion. 

It’s possible to add great value to the experiences of others and in the world from the gifts we’re given at birth.

Christmas is a marvelous time for celebrating and nurturing the gifts from our Creator.  If the Christmas season is one of sadness for you, reach out to someone else who could use a lift. 

Merry Christmas - Sharon

The 7th "C": Consequences

Consideration for others brings me to the 7^th “C”, consequences.  Along with the self-centered, me-focused trend come the “blamers”.  It’s not my fault, they say!

Taking responsibility for your words, behaviour and actions takes a high form of maturity and character building.  It’s never too soon to teach your children the consequences of their actions in a positive, kind manner.  The “blame game” is cowardly and serves no one.

What will your kids learn from your behaviors?

The 6th "C": Consideration

This seemingly simple word contains a powerhouse of implications.

I recall, when my son was in his early teens, trying to teach him about good manners and consideration for others and how important it was for his daily interactions with people.  His response: Mom, everyone will think I’m a dork!

A dork?  Yes, it’s really a word – I looked it up.  It means social misfit, among other things.  I felt a stab of fear go through me.  He was at that age where fitting in with his peers was crucial.  I was definitely outnumbered. 

Giving up on this important issue wasn’t an option so I decided that I could still insist on these values at home.  We could set the example as well as requesting that he honour them at home and at work.  He worked part time at our store which became a great place to walk the talk. 

Good manners and consideration for others is about respect.  And, it seemed that our son was correct and the world was changing.  In this increasingly fast-paced world, people are becoming more self-absorbed, self-centred and thoughtless towards others. 

Consideration of others first requires that we become conscious, awake and present.  In other words, it means shifting your focus.  This is where the real power exists. 

When you are experiencing struggle, anxiety, and adversity, shift your focus away from yourself.  Show kindness and consideration and really listen to someone else.  This is a powerful tool for healing yourself and making an impact on others.  Consideration and respect can go a long way to calming the anger, chaos and frenzy of today’s world.

If we had more dorks in the world maybe there would be fewer bullies.