In this episode of "According to the Cassles," Amy and Tray are talking about gratitude. We get into various aspects of their lives, addressing their personal and professional journeys. They tackle the challenges posed by the current economic climate, emphasizing the importance of choosing a positive approach and exploring ways to navigate through it. The episode also dips into Tray's return to a more hands-on role in his company and the adjustments this brings to their family dynamics. Additionally, they recount recent incidents where their wave runners were stolen, reflecting on the gratitude they feel despite the violation. Using humor, candid discussions, and insightful reflections on both the highs and lows of life the Cassels demonstrate how gratitude helps navigate the various struggles in life.

Key Points:

• The hosts acknowledge the challenges presented by the current economic situation but emphasize the importance of choosing a positive approach.
• Tray shares his experience of returning to a more active role in his company after a period of mentoring and consulting. He reflects on the impact on the company culture, the motivation it provides for both him and his employees, and the need for continuous growth and anticipation of challenges.
• With Tray spending more time at work, the hosts discuss the need for adjustments in their family routines. 
• They highlight the importance of communication and flexibility in adapting to changes, both in the business and home spheres. 
• The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing work and family life and the shared responsibilities between Amy and Tray.
• Amy and Tray recount the recent theft of their wave runners, expressing gratitude for insurance coverage despite the violation of their property. 
• They share details of the investigation, the challenges posed by limited surveillance, and the resourcefulness of a friend who conducted additional investigative work. 
• The emotional impact of the incident and the unexpected positive outcome.
• Despite the regret, the host encourages a focus on gratitude. They emphasize looking back on the positive impact the person had on their life and expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the positive influence.
• S.E.C.T.A.F. Acronym:
• S: Story in Your Head: Identify the narrative or story you are telling yourself about a situation.
• E: Emotion: Recognize the emotion you are feeling in response to the situation.
• C: Coming From: Understand where the emotion is coming from, whether it's past experiences or external influences.
• T: Truth: Question whether the story you are telling yourself is the absolute truth or just your perception.
• A: Avoid: Consider what actions or situations you might need to avoid in the future to prevent similar negative emotions.
• F: Forgiveness: Forgive the other person involved and focus on self-improvement rather than blaming others.
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Quotable Moments:

• Tray: "I think we have a choice. We can complain, we can get really upset and post on Facebook and then just get all the comments to stir the energy of the fact that the economy sucks, or we can work a little harder, spend less, be mindful and intentional with our money.”
• Amy: "I'm talking to myself here. If you're listening, we're not perfect. We're talking to ourselves. This is for our future reference, where we can go back and listen to our podcast and say, Hey, remember that one time we're going to start Monday?"
• Amy: But you know, I can focus on that regret. I could put all my time, my energy and focus into that regret, or I could express gratitude and think about all the ways that she had an impact on my life.

Links Mentioned:

https://www.amycassels.com

https://twitter.com/amy_cassels?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/acassels/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzoQfLNzz_ieatgaoWDTcw

Mentioned in this episode:

Sparkle Dust

NingxiaRed