In this episode of Lessons After Sessions, Jen and Trev explore the complexities of expectations in various aspects of life, particularly in parenting and relationships. They discuss the emotional transitions that come with significant life changes and how these transitions can be tied to our expectations. The conversation delves into the burden of expectations, how they can lead to disappointment, and the importance of reframing expectations as intentions to foster a healthier mindset. The hosts emphasize the need for grace and flexibility in our goals and intentions, encouraging listeners to approach life with a lighter perspective.

Takeaways

• Parenting brings a unique set of expectations.
• Expectations can lead to disappointment in various relationships.
• Stress often stems from unmet expectations.
• Reframing expectations as intentions can reduce pressure.
• Setting intentions allows for grace and flexibility.
• Expectations can box us in and create feelings of failure.
• It's important to have low expectations to avoid disappointment.
• Emotional transitions can be complex and multifaceted.
• We should approach our goals with intention rather than rigid expectations.
• Expectations are a natural part of human relationships.

Sound Bites

• "I'm now an empty nester."
• "Expectation is like a box."
• "Expectations are 100% natural."

In this episode of Lessons After the Sessions, Jen & Trev delve into the complex topic of forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of self-forgiveness as a precursor to forgiving others. They explore the misconceptions surrounding forgiveness, the emotional burdens of shame, and the necessity of releasing toxic feelings. The conversation also addresses challenging scenarios, such as forgiving those who have caused significant harm, and offers practical tools for emotional release. Ultimately, they propose a shift in language from 'forgiveness' to 'releasing' to better capture the essence of letting go and reclaiming personal power.

TRIGGER: sexual assault briefly discussed

Takeaways

• Forgiveness starts with self-forgiveness.
• Shame can turn into toxic shame if not addressed.
• Forgiveness is a personal journey, not about the other person.
• Releasing is about taking back your power.
• Daily practices of releasing are essential for emotional health.
• Understanding the 'why' behind our choices aids in forgiveness.
• Forgiveness does not excuse harmful behavior.
• Writing letters to abusers can be a powerful tool for release.
• Releasing shame can create a ripple effect of positivity.
• Conscious choices are crucial in the process of releasing.

Titles

• The Power of Forgiveness
• Releasing Shame: A Path to Healing

Sound Bites

• "Releasing is gaining power."
• "You can feel it vibrate within you."
• "It's a daily choice to release."

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Technical Difficulties

03:01Forgiveness Starts Within

08:12Tools for Releasing Pain

13:40Daily Releases and Their Impact

In this inaugural episode of the Lessons After Sessions podcast, hosts Jen (LCPC) and Trev (LMFT) explore the complexities of parenting teenagers in today's world. They discuss the balance between safety and autonomy, the impact of technology on parenting, and the importance of building healthy relationships with children. Through their experiences as therapists, they emphasize the need for trust, understanding, and allowing children to make mistakes as part of their growth process. The conversation highlights the significance of family dynamics and the lessons learned from navigating parenting challenges.

Takeaways:

• We're both therapists, but we are not providing therapy.
• The more you try to control something, the more out of control it gets.
• Let them make mistakes. It's a huge gift.
• Balance is the key.
• What do you want for your children?
• Every single family, every single child is different.
• Trust your kid.
• Relationships are the key.
• You have to give them some space to make mistakes.
• What message does that send to your children?