Avoid escaping your troubles

Getting along with my mother is very difficult.  I respect her because she has provided both food, shelter, and guidance for me.  She has the best of intentions, but her advice is more like demands.  In addition, my unresolved feelings of childhood neglect makes it very difficult for me to communicate with her.  Recently, I had to make an important decision of whether or not I should move out.

Reflecting upon my thought process, I noticed many important things.  My first intuition was escape.  If I moved out, then the problems will not re-occur.  This reminds me of AOD.  People escape problems by drinking and doing drugs.  Fortunately, I am not an impulsive person.  I am very patient and weigh the ups and downs.  Perhaps the smartest thing I do in making difficult decisions is consult my close friends.  By talking about my problems and seeking resolution, it calms me and gives me a new perspective.  I am quite open about my personal history; however, others might not be very receptive to sharing personal information.  Our clients’ culture and personality always differ. 

For Chinese culture, we normally avoid sharing our troubles outside the family.  It is seen as shame and disgrace.  With this knowledge, we could encourage communication among family members.  Therapy and counseling could work with Americanized Chinese families.

Left & Right sides of the brain

Looking at my chart, I am sure my left brain does more of the daily work than my right.  Board games like Chess and playing musical instruments are good activities to practice using both brains at the same time.  Creative writing and sports are another activity good for using both  hemispheres of the brain.  The best way to motivate me to do these activities is to include my children.  Family activities are fun, educational, and very satisfying.