VS Grenier ~ Award-Winning Author, Speaker & Podcaster

  Greetings, dear readers! Our journey together has taken us on a path of self-discovery, embracing optimism, redefining the elusive work-life balance, and learning to effectively manage our energy. Today, we embark on a profound exploration—a topic that delves into the very core of human existence: the concept that meaning is the motivation that moves us (Frankl, 1946). Join me as we unravel the significance of finding purpose and how it can inspire us to lead more fulfilling lives.   The Quest for Meaning   Throughout our lives, we are driven by a profound innate desire to uncover meaning and purpose (Baumeister, 1991). This universal pursuit lies at the core of our existence, guiding our choices, actions, and aspirations. The magnetic pull propels us forward, providing us with a compelling reason to greet each new day with enthusiasm and purpose.   In Viktor Frankl's seminal work, "Man's Search for Meaning," this unwavering quest for purpose is illuminated in the ...

  Dear readers, in our previous exploration, we confronted the conventional wisdom surrounding work-life balance and understood that it might be more of a myth than an attainable reality. We discussed the importance of actively managing our energy levels rather than fixating on the elusive concept of equilibrium (Schwartz, 2017). Today, we take the next step in this journey by delving into the practical realm of energy management. Join me as we uncover a toolkit of practical strategies to harness vitality and optimize our daily lives.   Practical Strategies for Energy Management As we embark on this illuminating journey through energy management, we will explore the what and how—practical strategies that empower us to make the most of our natural energy rhythms. These strategies are not mere theories but actionable approaches that can be seamlessly integrated into your daily routine.   1. Self-Awareness: Navigating Your Energy Patterns The foundation of effective energy m...

Dear readers, our journey together has taken us through a fascinating exploration of optimism and the art of positive framing. We've uncovered the power of a positive mindset and its transformative effects on our lives. Today, we venture into a new realm of understanding—one that challenges our preconceived notions about work and life balance. Welcome to "Harnessing Vitality: Why Work-Life Balance is a Myth."   Redefining Work-Life Balance   In our previous discussions, we've often heard about the concept of work-life balance, an ideal state where our professional and personal lives are thought to coexist harmoniously. However, this ideal can be elusive and often leads to frustration and disappointment. As we journey through this topic, we'll come to realize that achieving an exact balance between work and life is an unrealistic expectation (Elsbach & Cable, 2012).   The Myth of Equilibrium   The traditional notion of work-life balance assumes that our energy ...

Greetings, dear readers! Our journey together has explored various facets of life, from balancing responsibilities and embracing growth to nurturing connections and fostering well-being. Today, I'm excited to explore an empowering concept that can potentially transform our lives: the idea that optimism can be learned. This empowering concept invites us to shift our perspectives and approach life's challenges with a positive mindset (Seligman, 2006). Join me on this journey as we transition seamlessly from our previous discussions and embark on a new exploration into the art of optimism and the transformative practice of positive framing. We will discover how cultivating this skill can lead to a brighter, more fulfilling life.  The Foundations of Optimism   Optimism, often seen as a natural disposition, is not solely an inherent trait but a skill that can be nurtured and developed over time (Dweck, 2006). It's rooted in our ability to perceive and interpret the world around ...

Dear readers, the wisdom gained from adjusting to back-to-school season extends far beyond academic pursuits. The principles of open communication, balanced routines, meaningful connections, and personal growth have the power to transform our relationships and enrich our lives.  While my experiences are uniquely mine, the principles of open communication, balanced routines, meaningful connections, and personal growth have a profound impact on our ability to build and nurture relationships. As we navigate life's diverse seasons, we can harness these insights to foster deeper connections with others, creating an environment of understanding, trust, and shared growth. Prioritizing Open and Honest Dialogues:  Effective communication is the bedrock of any meaningful relationship. By prioritizing open and honest dialogues, we not only express our thoughts and feelings but also actively listen to others. Whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or even casual encount...

Hello again, dear readers! It's lovely to reconnect after a brief pause in my blogging journey. Life's twists and turns often surprise us, and in my case, a malfunctioning AC prevented me from utilizing my home office for writing. But, as seasons change, so do our circumstances, and I'm excited to continue our discussions on self-care, personal growth, and the art of balancing life's demands. With school resuming for my kids and the midpoint of my current course session, let's delve into how we navigate challenges and embrace growth during these dynamic times. Adjusting to Back-to-School Season: Nurturing a Supportive Environment for Our Kids As we transition into a new school year, palpable energy fills the air – a mix of anticipation, excitement, and maybe a hint of nerves. Back-to-school season is a time of adjusting rhythms and routines for parents and children. In my role as a mom, I find myself reflecting on the importance of creating a supportive and nurturin...

  Welcome back, dear readers! As we continue our journey together, I'm thrilled to share some exciting updates on my ongoing pursuit of personal and academic growth. The new term has just begun, and I am diving into two intriguing college courses: Social Psychology and the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. Additionally, I'm humbled to be an APA ambassador at Bay Path University, have earned a spot on the dean's list, and am honored to serve as a peer mentor this semester. As I embark on these 6-week-long courses, my passion for learning is reignited. Social Psychology offers an intriguing exploration of human behavior and the influence of social interactions on our lives. Understanding the complexities of human interactions not only enriches my academic journey but also provides valuable insights into interpersonal dynamics in our daily lives. From understanding the impact of conformity to the power of persuasion, social psychology equips me with knowledge that extends beyond the c...

     Welcome back, dear readers! It's a pleasure to continue our journey together as we explore the importance of self-care and finding balance amid life's demands. In our previous blog post, we delved into my personal experiences and the pursuit of balance in various roles and explored the intersection of motherhood, advocacy, studies, and creative pursuits in my life. What I have found and know through my psychological studies is that self-care can have transformative power and is universally important in maintaining a good work/personal life balance. Now, let's dive deeper into actionable steps and practical suggestions to incorporate self-care practices into your lives. The Power of Self-Care:        As I strive to fulfill my roles as a mother, advocate, student, and creative, it's essential to recognize the significance of self-care. Life can often become a whirlwind of responsibilities, commitments, and obligations. Taking time for ourselves allo...

  Welcome back, dear readers! I reconnect with you after a transformative period in my life with great excitement and a sense of renewed purpose. As we dive into this new chapter, I want to share the multifaceted journey I've embarked upon, where motherhood, advocacy, academic pursuits, and creative endeavors converge. When I first started this blog 18 years ago, I was a new mother with a passion for writing. Over time, my journey took an unexpected turn as I delved into public service as a victim advocate, dedicating myself to supporting and empowering those who had experienced trauma. During this period, my writing and creative pursuits took a backseat, but my commitment to making a difference in the lives of others only grew stronger. As my children have grown and reached significant milestones, I find myself at a pivotal moment. Driven by a desire to further my knowledge and expand my capacity to help others, I decided to return to school. Currently pursuing my master's deg...