​

Hey Reader,

We're heading home from Australia this week, and I'm grateful. We loved our time Down Under. Still, there's no place like home. Over the years, I’ve noticed most of the questions people ask me are about communicating with the people under their own roof: their spouses, siblings, children, and even their grown kids.

So this week is about home. :)

#1. From My Inbox “My adult children and I have radically different views about religion, politics and just the world in general. Do you have tips for me to listen without judging, but at the same time not compromise my own worldview?” - Lynne

You can hold your ground and hold your kids at the same time. The trick is order: connection first, conviction second. Start by framing your lane. “I’m not here to change your mind. I want to understand how you see it.” Then, listen.

If you feel the need to speak, say, “We see it differently, and I still love you.” Then, move on. Choose the relationship over the win. Every time.

#2. A Communication Tip: Helping Your Child with Bullies

A bully is fishing. Every mean word is bait, and your child's reaction is the catch. When someone says something cruel, the strongest move is a slow look and a simple, "Why would you say that?" Then quiet. The bully came for a reaction and left with nothing.

Practice it at the kitchen table. You say the mean thing, and let your child rehearse the calm reply until it feels easy. Practice makes permanent.

#3. Something I'm Currently Loving: Noise-Cancelling Headphones

I told y'all I love a walk with no headphones. That's true. But fly from Australia to the United States and you learn the value of good headphones real quick. I've been working on something special for you, and my noise-cancelling headphones helped me listen to the latest edits while my wife and kids slept on the plane. I’m excited to share it with you!

Many of you told me you wanted to be first to hear when my new project is ready. If you missed it, click this link and I'll add you to the waitlist. I’ll email you more details soon.

I've been working hard on this one. I can’t wait for you to see it.

Glad you're here, Reader.

J

P.S. It is going to take weeks (maybe months!) to mentally unpack our time in Australia. I have So. Many. Pictures. For now, here are a few of my favorites. Thank you, Australia!