Today I talked to my boys about making their own happiness.  I think it worth sharing.

Each of us, whether we have a diagnosis or not, has to choose what path we follow. 

If you view an issue as a "problem", then you will mentally develop an attitude of entitlement.  People need to care for someone who has a problem!

If you view an issue as an opportunity for growth and a challenge or puzzle that requires a new solution, you will develop an attitude of self determination!  You see an issue, and you make it right for yourself.

Look, we all have our good days and bad days.  Sometimes its easier to wallow in self pity than pick yourself up by the bootstraps.  Don't let this become a way of life! 

We can raise our special kids believing that their is something wrong with them, or something different about them.  The difference between the two is HUGE!!!  We tell our boys that they are mentally different, not disabled or challenged.

Now for the case in point!

Jim has no mid-line shift in his brain.  Basically, his left brain and right brain don't communicate.  This is a necessary communication for anything artistic, compound or complex.  Graphing, various math problems, writing letters etc.  He recently took the advice that I posted above and used it!

He had a complex task to complete at school.  He broke the task into 2 parts, and mentally place the first complete part into his hand and held it there while he completed the second part.  Then he put the 2 parts together!

Pretty damn creative huh??

If a 15 year old can figure this stuff out than so can you!  Give yourself the opportunity to look at your issue and put it into positive words.  Just like the behavior plans that I write, turn each negative thing into a positive statement!  Instead of "I can't do this because I have PTSD".  Think instead (and say it outloud if needed) "This will be a challenge because of my PTSD, but I know that I can get it done."

Hell, occasionally I have to give myself the speech of "Look!  It doesn't matter if you can't do it, it still needs to be done so just shut up and do it!  Worry about it being impossible after you finish it!!"