When I first learned about the Power Traits framework my life was forever changed. As a parent of young children at the time I was struggling to understand my little people. Remember, I taught high school. These little people baffled and challenged me at times but I knew there was something I was missing. I lacked understanding. I knew I wanted to honor the seed of who they were, but I must admit, I failed on a regular basis. I would think to myself "Ah, if only they could be more like me! Must everything be such an adventure?"

This speaks to how I didn't see them as they were. I saw them as I was and as I wanted them to be. This is why something as simple as acknowledging our children's dispositions causes them to willingly show up in the world. It sheds light on why the needs of a 'people smart' child might challenge a parent who operates more in the 'self-smart' zone and just needs alone time.

When I came across the work of Mariaemma Pelullo-Willis and Victoria Dodson (the thought leaders of this Power Traits work) I knew I had to go through their certification program. When something benefits me this profoundly, I feel compelled to share it with others. But more than anything, I wanted to know how to esteem the children I had been blessed with. The freedom that came (and still comes) from understanding my children's Power Traits has spared me a lot of unnecessary frustration. I still face challenges but it's not because I'm unaware; I'm just experiencing periodic discomfort as I allow others to be who they are even if it 'bothers' me.

I want every parent to experience this awareness and clarity. I truly believe that as we discover and celebrate the seed of who our children are we will see them shine like never before. We won't find ourselves fighting against the grain of who they are. I believe if we can help them avoid the 'kid-life' crisis then maybe we can help them avoid the midlife crisis.