1. Spend more time trying to envision her day and activities as she describes them to me after work.
2. I would like to raise my abilities on the dominance spectrum. I think this would be a better place for me in a professional environment when I re-enter the workforce.
3. Successfully and efficiently identifying the four communication styles and understanding how behaviors are best received by each style when communicating with people at school (and eventually, at work).
Friday, October 15, 2010
3 Goals for Growth in Communication Style
1. Work on my ability to listen more attentively to my partner Jessica.
2. Work on my ability to increase my assertiveness.
3. Do more work with style flexing.
2. Work on my ability to increase my assertiveness.
3. Do more work with style flexing.
Analysis of Personal Life in Relation to Preferred Communication Style
After taking those communication style surveys (the inventory and quiz), I realize that there are traits from other styles that I tend to identify with. The style quiz points out that I am strongest in creativity, and not far behind as a listener. The style inventory, on the other hand weighed heavily on the controller/director traits. However, stepping back and reading the definition in our text books, it would seem that my communication style fits best in Zone 2 of the Supportive Communication Style.
I think that I am a very attentive listener as a student and as a parent and partner. I am not perfect, but patience is key to my attitude when solving problems. As a parent I use my authority to direct my children, but I also use a thoughtful and deliberate manner when trying to teach "everyday" lessons. In school, I almost always avoid the use of power, unless no one steps up in a group setting. Then I empower myself as a way to show the group that they can follow my example.
I think that I am a very attentive listener as a student and as a parent and partner. I am not perfect, but patience is key to my attitude when solving problems. As a parent I use my authority to direct my children, but I also use a thoughtful and deliberate manner when trying to teach "everyday" lessons. In school, I almost always avoid the use of power, unless no one steps up in a group setting. Then I empower myself as a way to show the group that they can follow my example.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Sol was very difficult today getting out of bed. When he finally did get out of bed, he was very reluctant to take his morning medications. At one point I told him that his "attitude has to change, and it has to change starting right now!"
He replied with, "You have anger issues!"
From there we were able to communicate more calmly. I was able to explain to him why I was angry and what he does that makes me happy. He was open to communicating with me about what he was angry about as well. His bus came sooner, rather than later, and he wasn't totally ready for school, but was able to get on the bus and eat most of his cereal for breakfast.
When thinking back on his statement about my "anger issues," its hard not to laugh a little bit. It's hard not to take seriously such a statement from someone who acts out in anger on a daily basis and expects everything to be good and fine at the drop of a hat. But that doesn't mean there isn't any truth to it. I'm glad that him and I are able to point out to each other honestly and truthfully what we see/feel is fair or not fair when communicating. I'm so thankful that even when we do criticize each other, we both have the ability to keep trying and working to communicate better.
I went to school and worked on some American Radicalism homework. In the library, I did the HRTB Chapter 3/4Quiz and submitted my Team Mid-Term Review.
After American Radicalism, I ate lunch and had an appointment with my therapist. (I've been in therapy for over two years to help me through my separation, divorce, custody battle and unemployment. It started off as a weekly thing, but for the past eight or nine months, I've been seeing my therapist less frequently- about every six-eight weeks). My session was very helpful (as usual) and I set up a follow up appointment for December 9th. It will probably be my final session.
I spent the next couple of hours commuting home and picking up odds and ends needed around the house (Walgreens, Target, two different hardware stores.)
When I got home, Sol had shown signs of having a good day with his PCA. They (for the first time since Jessica and I have tried implementing this) actually wrote down his scheduled activities for the day and completed them (It's something that the directory from the company that provides Sol's PCAs suggested we start doing with Sol on a daily basis to encourage and practice doing activities that are both fun and healthy on a consistent/daily basis.)
Sol and I spent a part of the evening drafting our fantasy basketball teams together. He has a team and I have a team. I haven't followed NBA basketball very closely for over five years, so it'll be interesting to see how either of us do. It is Sol's first Fantasy League. He's been expressing interest in Fantasy Football, but it's too late to sign up for any leagues. I thought it would be cool for us to join a basketball league together because he likes basketball a lot (His uncles play a lot of basketball still). My goal while playing with Sol is to teach him the "in's and out's" of fantasy sports, but also to focus on playing for fun. Each week he'll either win a game or lose a game, and it will be a good opportunity for him to learn how to win and lose with class..... It's an extension of the "good sportsmanship" I tried focusing on when he played team baseball over the past summer.
He replied with, "You have anger issues!"
From there we were able to communicate more calmly. I was able to explain to him why I was angry and what he does that makes me happy. He was open to communicating with me about what he was angry about as well. His bus came sooner, rather than later, and he wasn't totally ready for school, but was able to get on the bus and eat most of his cereal for breakfast.
When thinking back on his statement about my "anger issues," its hard not to laugh a little bit. It's hard not to take seriously such a statement from someone who acts out in anger on a daily basis and expects everything to be good and fine at the drop of a hat. But that doesn't mean there isn't any truth to it. I'm glad that him and I are able to point out to each other honestly and truthfully what we see/feel is fair or not fair when communicating. I'm so thankful that even when we do criticize each other, we both have the ability to keep trying and working to communicate better.
I went to school and worked on some American Radicalism homework. In the library, I did the HRTB Chapter 3/4Quiz and submitted my Team Mid-Term Review.
After American Radicalism, I ate lunch and had an appointment with my therapist. (I've been in therapy for over two years to help me through my separation, divorce, custody battle and unemployment. It started off as a weekly thing, but for the past eight or nine months, I've been seeing my therapist less frequently- about every six-eight weeks). My session was very helpful (as usual) and I set up a follow up appointment for December 9th. It will probably be my final session.
I spent the next couple of hours commuting home and picking up odds and ends needed around the house (Walgreens, Target, two different hardware stores.)
When I got home, Sol had shown signs of having a good day with his PCA. They (for the first time since Jessica and I have tried implementing this) actually wrote down his scheduled activities for the day and completed them (It's something that the directory from the company that provides Sol's PCAs suggested we start doing with Sol on a daily basis to encourage and practice doing activities that are both fun and healthy on a consistent/daily basis.)
Sol and I spent a part of the evening drafting our fantasy basketball teams together. He has a team and I have a team. I haven't followed NBA basketball very closely for over five years, so it'll be interesting to see how either of us do. It is Sol's first Fantasy League. He's been expressing interest in Fantasy Football, but it's too late to sign up for any leagues. I thought it would be cool for us to join a basketball league together because he likes basketball a lot (His uncles play a lot of basketball still). My goal while playing with Sol is to teach him the "in's and out's" of fantasy sports, but also to focus on playing for fun. Each week he'll either win a game or lose a game, and it will be a good opportunity for him to learn how to win and lose with class..... It's an extension of the "good sportsmanship" I tried focusing on when he played team baseball over the past summer.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
This morning I helped Sol get breakfast and ready for school.
Jessica started her first day at work after a 13-week leave of absence (for back-surgery) yesterday. Today was day two back for her. She was able to get out of the house before Sol left for the bus.
After Sol caught the bus on time, I cleaned up a little around the house and went to school.
I spent a couple of hours in the MCTC Library studying for my Posi-Psyche test on Monday.
I also spent some time reviewing for the quiz in HRTB that is due before Sunday night.
I was able to receive my grant money remaining from this semester at the Financial Services Office a couple of days ago. Because my award letter finally came, I was also able to officially apply for a student loan to help me get through the next semester and a half. My unemployment is running out and I've had no success at finding a job as of yet.
I went to Pop-Culture Class today, but had to leave 45 minutes early so I could be sure I was home when Sol got home and off the bus. (He didn't have a PCA lined up for today, so I spent the afternoon with him).
It was a great afternoon spending time with Sol. He voluntarily did all of his homework (Math and Grammar/Spelling) and even wanted to do Math flashcards with me for fun!
He and I then went on the computer and joined a Fantasy Basketball League together. He's been showing an interest in fantasy sports, and I thought it would be a good experience for us to join a free league together. I plan on focusing on the "fun" aspect of fantasy sports, as well as helping him understand the importance of having fun over winning or losing. (It's not about winning or losing, it's how you play the game... and ultimately, are you having fun?)
He was on the computer longer than he probably should have been because when it was time to get ready for bed, he acted out a little bit and had a low-level fit.
He did fine getting over it, and took his meds while watching a movie with Jessica and I before going to bed.
Jessica started her first day at work after a 13-week leave of absence (for back-surgery) yesterday. Today was day two back for her. She was able to get out of the house before Sol left for the bus.
After Sol caught the bus on time, I cleaned up a little around the house and went to school.
I spent a couple of hours in the MCTC Library studying for my Posi-Psyche test on Monday.
I also spent some time reviewing for the quiz in HRTB that is due before Sunday night.
I was able to receive my grant money remaining from this semester at the Financial Services Office a couple of days ago. Because my award letter finally came, I was also able to officially apply for a student loan to help me get through the next semester and a half. My unemployment is running out and I've had no success at finding a job as of yet.
I went to Pop-Culture Class today, but had to leave 45 minutes early so I could be sure I was home when Sol got home and off the bus. (He didn't have a PCA lined up for today, so I spent the afternoon with him).
It was a great afternoon spending time with Sol. He voluntarily did all of his homework (Math and Grammar/Spelling) and even wanted to do Math flashcards with me for fun!
He and I then went on the computer and joined a Fantasy Basketball League together. He's been showing an interest in fantasy sports, and I thought it would be a good experience for us to join a free league together. I plan on focusing on the "fun" aspect of fantasy sports, as well as helping him understand the importance of having fun over winning or losing. (It's not about winning or losing, it's how you play the game... and ultimately, are you having fun?)
He was on the computer longer than he probably should have been because when it was time to get ready for bed, he acted out a little bit and had a low-level fit.
He did fine getting over it, and took his meds while watching a movie with Jessica and I before going to bed.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Wednesday, October 6th, 2010
I didn't sleep very well again. I kept anticipating Elan waking up, but he didn't until 6:30.
I fed the kids breakfast and helped them get ready for school. When Sol left for his bus, I brought Elan to preschool and Nara to her bus stop. We were a few minutes late to Nara's stop, but luckily, the bus driver waited for her. I am going to make a point to be earlier for Nara's pick up for the remainder of this week.
I went to the MCTC Library and spent the next few hours finishing up a working draft for my American Radicalism Essay which is due tomorrow. I feel like it is almost complete. It could use a bit of editing, but I plan on taking some time from it for readability's sake.
Before class, I stopped by the financial services window to pay my fee to join the PTK Honor Society at MCTC. I then stopped by the Student Counseling Office to turn in my application and other materials to officially sign up for TPK. My letter of recommendation came from my Posi-Psyche teacher. She gave it to me Monday after class. Here is what she wrote:
To Whom I May Concern,
It is a pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Michael Nelson.
I met Michael during fall 2009 when he took my General Psychology course and his currently in my Positive Psychology class. I was delighted to see that he had enrolled in that course. Michael is very talented academically. He has excellent verbal and writing skills and engages the material in meaningful ways. His class comments enrich the course for students and teacher alike.
Michael is highly self-disciplined and motivate dot succeed. He has excellent, on-time attendance and is well liked by his classmates. In small group situations he often assumes a leadership role.
Micheal is an outstanding candidate for PTK.
I recommend him highly, without reservation.
.........
Elain Huaff, Ph.D. Psychology Faculty
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I was thrilled to read this when I turned in my application packet for PTK. I hadn't opened it or read it til then.
In Pop-Culture class, we watched more episodes of The Twilight Zone and identified ties between the culture of the era it was written and how it is still relevant today. My classmate lended me her TZ textbook (I had it checked out from the library, but it was due back a couple weeks ago so I don't currently have one) so I can be totally prepared for a quiz next Monday.
After class I spent time in the computer lab touching up my mid-term AmRad Essay and following up with my English 1111 assignments due before Friday's class.
I checked in about my financial aid on-line and found out I have officially qualified. My award letter is still pending, but I should have it by next week!
My next step is to apply for a child-care grant and appropriate student loans to help me finance the final semesters in my journey towards a two-year degree.
I picked up Elan from preschool before picking up Nara from her bus stop and going home.
We had spaghetti for dinner and Nara did homework while Sol, Elan and I played catch and tag outside for the evening.
The struggle between Sol and I this evening centered around trying to convince him to do homework. We made an agreement, but he didn't follow through with his end of the bargain after we finished playing outside.
I was feeling disappointed, but made it clear to Sol that even though I don't like his choice, I still love him. My disappointment doesn't mean my disapproval of him as a person.
On a personal level I was very frustrated because the kids seemed somewhat needy and I couldn't even find the Twins game on Television. On top of that, I felt stupid for letting all of this bother me.
I fed the kids breakfast and helped them get ready for school. When Sol left for his bus, I brought Elan to preschool and Nara to her bus stop. We were a few minutes late to Nara's stop, but luckily, the bus driver waited for her. I am going to make a point to be earlier for Nara's pick up for the remainder of this week.
I went to the MCTC Library and spent the next few hours finishing up a working draft for my American Radicalism Essay which is due tomorrow. I feel like it is almost complete. It could use a bit of editing, but I plan on taking some time from it for readability's sake.
Before class, I stopped by the financial services window to pay my fee to join the PTK Honor Society at MCTC. I then stopped by the Student Counseling Office to turn in my application and other materials to officially sign up for TPK. My letter of recommendation came from my Posi-Psyche teacher. She gave it to me Monday after class. Here is what she wrote:
To Whom I May Concern,
It is a pleasure to write this letter of recommendation for Michael Nelson.
I met Michael during fall 2009 when he took my General Psychology course and his currently in my Positive Psychology class. I was delighted to see that he had enrolled in that course. Michael is very talented academically. He has excellent verbal and writing skills and engages the material in meaningful ways. His class comments enrich the course for students and teacher alike.
Michael is highly self-disciplined and motivate dot succeed. He has excellent, on-time attendance and is well liked by his classmates. In small group situations he often assumes a leadership role.
Micheal is an outstanding candidate for PTK.
I recommend him highly, without reservation.
.........
Elain Huaff, Ph.D. Psychology Faculty
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I was thrilled to read this when I turned in my application packet for PTK. I hadn't opened it or read it til then.
In Pop-Culture class, we watched more episodes of The Twilight Zone and identified ties between the culture of the era it was written and how it is still relevant today. My classmate lended me her TZ textbook (I had it checked out from the library, but it was due back a couple weeks ago so I don't currently have one) so I can be totally prepared for a quiz next Monday.
After class I spent time in the computer lab touching up my mid-term AmRad Essay and following up with my English 1111 assignments due before Friday's class.
I checked in about my financial aid on-line and found out I have officially qualified. My award letter is still pending, but I should have it by next week!
My next step is to apply for a child-care grant and appropriate student loans to help me finance the final semesters in my journey towards a two-year degree.
I picked up Elan from preschool before picking up Nara from her bus stop and going home.
We had spaghetti for dinner and Nara did homework while Sol, Elan and I played catch and tag outside for the evening.
The struggle between Sol and I this evening centered around trying to convince him to do homework. We made an agreement, but he didn't follow through with his end of the bargain after we finished playing outside.
I was feeling disappointed, but made it clear to Sol that even though I don't like his choice, I still love him. My disappointment doesn't mean my disapproval of him as a person.
On a personal level I was very frustrated because the kids seemed somewhat needy and I couldn't even find the Twins game on Television. On top of that, I felt stupid for letting all of this bother me.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Tuesday, October 5th, 2010
I got up earlier than the kids and got things in order for my day at school.
I woke up Nara, Elan and eventually Sol.
Sol took his time getting up, but was able to get dressed, eat and be ready for the bus when it arrived.
I drove Elan to preschool before dropping Nara of at her bus stop Downtown (YMCA Bus Stop 9th and Hennepin) at 9:20am.
I spent the morning studying in the MCTC Library before my American Radicalism class at 11:15.
After class I had lunch and then went back to the library.
I spent the next couple of hours working on my American Radicalism mid-term essay that is due in two days.
I also spent some time reading chapters in my textbooks for BUSN HRTB and Posi-Psyche.
Next I went to the YMCA to spend 25 minutes jogging and then working on my swimming mechanics. I swam 7 laps practicing my kicks and focusing on my posture and stroke.
It was a good workout.
I picked up Elan from preschool. He was unusually whiney and emotional today. He spent pretty much the entirety of the car ride from preschool, to Nara's bus stop and then home crying. It was a long hour.
Jessica had vegan sloppy joe's and french fries ready for dinner and we all ate together as a family.
After dinner, the entire family went to the near by park. Sol and I played catch with the football for about a half an hour. Nara made friends with a little girl at the park and Jessica pushed Elan in the swing. Before leaving, Nara, Sol and I made obstacle courses and timed our efforts.
When we got home, Nara did homework before brushing her teeth, getting her pj's on and going to bed around 9:30.
I got Elan ready for bed and read two story books to him before he fell asleep at 9pm.
Sol got himself ready for bed and I tucked him in around the same time as Elan.
I woke up Nara, Elan and eventually Sol.
Sol took his time getting up, but was able to get dressed, eat and be ready for the bus when it arrived.
I drove Elan to preschool before dropping Nara of at her bus stop Downtown (YMCA Bus Stop 9th and Hennepin) at 9:20am.
I spent the morning studying in the MCTC Library before my American Radicalism class at 11:15.
After class I had lunch and then went back to the library.
I spent the next couple of hours working on my American Radicalism mid-term essay that is due in two days.
I also spent some time reading chapters in my textbooks for BUSN HRTB and Posi-Psyche.
Next I went to the YMCA to spend 25 minutes jogging and then working on my swimming mechanics. I swam 7 laps practicing my kicks and focusing on my posture and stroke.
It was a good workout.
I picked up Elan from preschool. He was unusually whiney and emotional today. He spent pretty much the entirety of the car ride from preschool, to Nara's bus stop and then home crying. It was a long hour.
Jessica had vegan sloppy joe's and french fries ready for dinner and we all ate together as a family.
After dinner, the entire family went to the near by park. Sol and I played catch with the football for about a half an hour. Nara made friends with a little girl at the park and Jessica pushed Elan in the swing. Before leaving, Nara, Sol and I made obstacle courses and timed our efforts.
When we got home, Nara did homework before brushing her teeth, getting her pj's on and going to bed around 9:30.
I got Elan ready for bed and read two story books to him before he fell asleep at 9pm.
Sol got himself ready for bed and I tucked him in around the same time as Elan.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Monday, October 4th, 2010
I woke up and helped get Sol out of the bed and ready for school. Before I left the house, I made up a schedule of things for Sol to do when he gets home.
I picked up Elan from his mom's house and got him to preschool (Children's Village Montessori in SE Minneapolis) before my 10am Positive Psychology class.
After class I studied in the MCTC library. I still don't have my textbook for Human Relations or my Positive Psychology classes. I have luckily been able to spend a lot of time using the library resources effectively.
My Award Letter status was still unavailable when I checked on the MCTC website. I'm expecting some word from Financial Aid this week.
After the library, I went to the YMCA and did a work out. I lifted weights, worked on stretching and did some core work.
After my workout I picked up Nara at her bus stop and Elan from preschool. We brought home some Little Ceasar's Pizza for dinner.
Sol and Nara spent almost an hour doing homework.
I gave Elan his bath. Nara took a shower. Sol had a difficult time because Jessica and I wanted him to take a shower. It took about an hour for him to finally agree to take a shower. He showed escalated signs of frustration and anger, but for the most part he did really well. I think I had a slight affect in his behavior because I checked in with him on a couple of occasions when he was pouting and showing signs of hostility.
I shared with him some things I do to help me overcome feelings of disappointment and what helps me when I'm feeling overwhelmed. It didn't have an immediate impact, but I think it partially accounts for his ability to calm down and finally take his shower later on.
Elan woke up multiple times and wanted attention. Each time I carried him back to his bed and made sure he slept in his own bed (Not something he's used to when he's at his mom's house. He co-sleeps with his sister or mom when he's at her house.)
I picked up Elan from his mom's house and got him to preschool (Children's Village Montessori in SE Minneapolis) before my 10am Positive Psychology class.
After class I studied in the MCTC library. I still don't have my textbook for Human Relations or my Positive Psychology classes. I have luckily been able to spend a lot of time using the library resources effectively.
My Award Letter status was still unavailable when I checked on the MCTC website. I'm expecting some word from Financial Aid this week.
After the library, I went to the YMCA and did a work out. I lifted weights, worked on stretching and did some core work.
After my workout I picked up Nara at her bus stop and Elan from preschool. We brought home some Little Ceasar's Pizza for dinner.
Sol and Nara spent almost an hour doing homework.
I gave Elan his bath. Nara took a shower. Sol had a difficult time because Jessica and I wanted him to take a shower. It took about an hour for him to finally agree to take a shower. He showed escalated signs of frustration and anger, but for the most part he did really well. I think I had a slight affect in his behavior because I checked in with him on a couple of occasions when he was pouting and showing signs of hostility.
I shared with him some things I do to help me overcome feelings of disappointment and what helps me when I'm feeling overwhelmed. It didn't have an immediate impact, but I think it partially accounts for his ability to calm down and finally take his shower later on.
Elan woke up multiple times and wanted attention. Each time I carried him back to his bed and made sure he slept in his own bed (Not something he's used to when he's at his mom's house. He co-sleeps with his sister or mom when he's at her house.)
Sunday, October 3, 2010
3 Goals and Steps to Achieve Goals
Goal 1: Receive award letter for Fall and Spring Semesters and receive more student financial aid.
Step 1. Wait patiently for my Award Letter. I checked in with Financial Aid last week and it they said it should come any day now.
Step 2. Apply for child-care grants.
Step 3. Apply for necessary student loans.
Step 4. Follow up with any necessary paper work for the previous two steps.
Step 5. Contact child-care facility about intentions for Financial Aid funding.
Step 6. Complete this goal before November 8th (when my Unemployment Insurance funding runs out.)
Goal 2: Implement and stick with a scheduled daily plan to work, play and communicate with Sol.
Step 1. Introduce idea with Sol's PCA.
Step 2. Introduce idea/schedule to Sol.
Step 3. Be present daily to help implement new schedule.
Step 4. Be patient when encountering difficulties with communications about and implementations of new schedule with Sol.
Step 5. Concurrent with all previous steps, be sure to show encouragement and reinforce good behavior and communications with Sol.
Step 6. Never give up. Stay positive. Present to Sol positive attitude as much as possible.
Step 7. Evaluate progress after each week.
Goal 3: Get back into triathlon racing shape.
Step 1. Fitness Assessment.
Step 2. Create work out schedule weekly.
Step 3. Include Cardio, weight training, and swimming in schedule regularly.
Step 4. Work on swimming mechanics. Start from scratch.
Step 5. Work on HR while jogging and stationary biking.
Step 6. Work on stretching ability.
Step 7. Work on core strength and stamina.
Step 8. Evaluate progress every 4th week.
Step 9. Make adjustments accordingly with results from progress.
Step 1. Wait patiently for my Award Letter. I checked in with Financial Aid last week and it they said it should come any day now.
Step 2. Apply for child-care grants.
Step 3. Apply for necessary student loans.
Step 4. Follow up with any necessary paper work for the previous two steps.
Step 5. Contact child-care facility about intentions for Financial Aid funding.
Step 6. Complete this goal before November 8th (when my Unemployment Insurance funding runs out.)
Goal 2: Implement and stick with a scheduled daily plan to work, play and communicate with Sol.
Step 1. Introduce idea with Sol's PCA.
Step 2. Introduce idea/schedule to Sol.
Step 3. Be present daily to help implement new schedule.
Step 4. Be patient when encountering difficulties with communications about and implementations of new schedule with Sol.
Step 5. Concurrent with all previous steps, be sure to show encouragement and reinforce good behavior and communications with Sol.
Step 6. Never give up. Stay positive. Present to Sol positive attitude as much as possible.
Step 7. Evaluate progress after each week.
Goal 3: Get back into triathlon racing shape.
Step 1. Fitness Assessment.
Step 2. Create work out schedule weekly.
Step 3. Include Cardio, weight training, and swimming in schedule regularly.
Step 4. Work on swimming mechanics. Start from scratch.
Step 5. Work on HR while jogging and stationary biking.
Step 6. Work on stretching ability.
Step 7. Work on core strength and stamina.
Step 8. Evaluate progress every 4th week.
Step 9. Make adjustments accordingly with results from progress.
Strenghts V. Weaknesses
3 Strengths
• Patience
• Positive Self Concepts
• Inner Drive for Excellence
3 Weaknesses
• Pressure/Stresses from Poor Communication Skills with Ex-Wife
• Occasional Lack of Openness to Avoid Confrontation
• Procastination
• Patience
• Positive Self Concepts
• Inner Drive for Excellence
3 Weaknesses
• Pressure/Stresses from Poor Communication Skills with Ex-Wife
• Occasional Lack of Openness to Avoid Confrontation
• Procastination
7 Major Themes in Human Relations
1. Communications- I feel like I practice good communication skills with people in general. More specifically, recognizing that “communication is the human connection” (Reece, Brandt, Effective Human Relations, 17) it my effective communication skills are very positively correlated with how many healthy relationships I have in my life. (I.E.- Relationships with my friends, family, children, partner, school intructors, student peers, etc…)
2. Self-awareness- I think that I have a solid understanding of my self-awareness. Being aware of my weaknesses and strengths and making decisions on which “battles” are worth fighting for when having difficulty communicating with people (whether it be my ex-wife or my children).
3. Self-acceptance- I didn’t journal any previous experiences regarding past attempts to overcome obstacles with the intentions of reaching goals at former places of employment or volunteer organizations. I believe I have a good foundation with my self-acceptance and it has shown me how to be more tolerant, cope with change and work in group more successfully. Some of these jobs included the US Army and working with South Minneapolis Neighborhood Organizations who wished to oppose city and state legislation that negatively affected their communities.
4. Motivation- In my relationships I am frequently reviewing “where we are at” and “what I could do” to make things better, or keep them as they are. This would be an example of the motivation theme and how it key to making the best of my interpersonal relationships with friends, family, and peers.
5. Trust- In my experience with my step-son Sol, I can see how trust plays an integral role with how we can overcome the stress of disappointment. Also, by building trust with him, it enables me to support him in learning how to make good and healthy decisions about hygiene, homework, dietary choices, and social skills.
6. Self-disclosure- I did not journal about my previous work experiences, but self-disclosure is an important key for me because I have a criminal record. I’ve always made a point to bring this up at all of my interviews, and explain what the crimes where, when they committed and pointed out my commitment to distance myself from the activities of a young kid to show that I am a now a responsible parent. This has always worked in my favor, as opposed to not bringing it up at the interview and then having to go over it after a thorough background check. Often times, the later-way results in immediate disqualification from the job I was interviewing for.
7. Conflict Resolution- Although I avoid confrontation more than I probably should, it’s not always possible. I find that I have the ability to step into the role of mediator when my step-son may have an argument or problem communicating with his mom (my partner).
2. Self-awareness- I think that I have a solid understanding of my self-awareness. Being aware of my weaknesses and strengths and making decisions on which “battles” are worth fighting for when having difficulty communicating with people (whether it be my ex-wife or my children).
3. Self-acceptance- I didn’t journal any previous experiences regarding past attempts to overcome obstacles with the intentions of reaching goals at former places of employment or volunteer organizations. I believe I have a good foundation with my self-acceptance and it has shown me how to be more tolerant, cope with change and work in group more successfully. Some of these jobs included the US Army and working with South Minneapolis Neighborhood Organizations who wished to oppose city and state legislation that negatively affected their communities.
4. Motivation- In my relationships I am frequently reviewing “where we are at” and “what I could do” to make things better, or keep them as they are. This would be an example of the motivation theme and how it key to making the best of my interpersonal relationships with friends, family, and peers.
5. Trust- In my experience with my step-son Sol, I can see how trust plays an integral role with how we can overcome the stress of disappointment. Also, by building trust with him, it enables me to support him in learning how to make good and healthy decisions about hygiene, homework, dietary choices, and social skills.
6. Self-disclosure- I did not journal about my previous work experiences, but self-disclosure is an important key for me because I have a criminal record. I’ve always made a point to bring this up at all of my interviews, and explain what the crimes where, when they committed and pointed out my commitment to distance myself from the activities of a young kid to show that I am a now a responsible parent. This has always worked in my favor, as opposed to not bringing it up at the interview and then having to go over it after a thorough background check. Often times, the later-way results in immediate disqualification from the job I was interviewing for.
7. Conflict Resolution- Although I avoid confrontation more than I probably should, it’s not always possible. I find that I have the ability to step into the role of mediator when my step-son may have an argument or problem communicating with his mom (my partner).
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