In an era dominated by digital technology, navigating its influence on our lives, especially on our children, has become increasingly challenging. Annie, a former elementary school teacher, recognized this growing dilemma and joined Screen Sanity, an international non-profit organization, started by two other mothers five years ago. Their mission is to provide resources for parents and caregivers on how to raise children in a digital age, emphasizing the importance of using technology wisely.
Annie's journey with Screen Sanity began from her personal struggles and observations regarding technology's impact on children's sleep, attention, mental health, and creativity. These concerns are further highlighted by the CDC's 2022 report, indicating a growing mental health crisis among children due to technology use. One of the key statistics that Screen Sanity aims to address is the fact that only 14% of teens have had a helpful conversation with a trusted adult about their digital life. This lack of understanding from parents and caregivers about the effects of technology on children's brains and behaviors underscores the importance of initiatives like Screen Sanity. Screen Sanity approaches this sensitive topic with a mindset of non-judgment and understanding. They believe that discussing these issues openly and without shame is crucial. As Maya Angelou once said, "You do the best you can until you know better. Then you do better." This philosophy guides Screen Sanity's core content, which is centered around the START anagram:
Screen Sanity advocates for a balanced approach to technology use, encouraging individuals to leverage technology to their advantage while being mindful of its potential drawbacks. By creating boundaries, setting goals, and engaging in offline activities, individuals can develop healthier relationships with technology. In a world where technology is omnipresent, it's essential to take control of our tech habits rather than letting them control us. Screen Sanity's holistic approach empowers individuals to navigate the digital age with purpose and mindfulness, ensuring that technology enhances their lives rather than detracts from them.
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The holiday season, while festive and joyous, often brings a myriad of commitments and stressors that can weigh heavily on our well-being. Recently, I had the pleasure of attending an enlightening session by Sarah Owings, a seasoned professional in IT healthcare at Netsmart, where she shared invaluable insights on maintaining self-care during this bustling time. Reflecting on the Holiday Spectrum During the discussion, Sarah candidly expressed her mixed emotions about the holidays, addressing relatable topics such as the pressure of cooking, dealing with stressful family dynamics, and the overwhelming rush of end-of-year commitments. Sarah identified herself as an introverted extrovert, emphasizing the importance of recharging after social interactions—a sentiment that many of us can relate to during this bustling time. Deconstructing Self-Care Sarah's insights on self-care went beyond the surface, drawing from mental health first aid principles, Sarah emphasized the significance of a holistic approach to self-care beyond superficial activities. She stressed the importance of actively planning self-care by scheduling activities, creating personal 'no' lists, and incorporating practices like the 4-box breathing technique to manage stress and emotions effectively. We had the chance to reflect and develop our on self-care plans using the template below. Feel free to take a couple minutes to determine a couple places where you can implement self care this coming season. Her message was clear: self-care isn't just about pampering but addressing emotional, mental, physical, and community needs to achieve overall well-being.
Granting Yourself Grace One of the key takeaways from Sarah's insights was the idea of allowing oneself grace during the holiday rush. She acknowledged the inevitable variations in weeks and days, where some are balanced, while others may involve multiple fast-food dinners. Understanding and accepting these fluctuations is crucial in maintaining a healthy perspective. Navigating Personal Trajectories Acknowledging that the holidays hold diverse meanings for everyone, Sarah offered resources and guidance for navigating through grief or trauma that some might associate with this time of year. Her understanding and empathy shed light on the importance of inclusivity during this season. Conclusion Sarah Owings' reflections on self-care and navigating the holidays offer a holistic approach to managing the festive season's demands. As we enter this holiday season, let's implement Sarah's wisdom, granting ourselves grace, and prioritizing our well-being amidst the rush. Remember, taking care of yourself allows you to care for others more effectively. In the world of professional careers, change is inevitable. This holds especially true for Ben Rosen, BSN RN, a seasoned healthcare professional whose career path has been marked by various transitions. Ben's journey, from a bedside nurse to healthcare IT, showcases the importance of being open to change, seeking growth and aligning your passions with your career.
A Foundation in Medicine Ben's early exposure to medicine through his grandfather's influence set him on a path toward the medical field. Graduating from Kansas State University with a degree in Exercise Science, he initially aimed to become a doctor. However, his journey took a different direction when he realized that a career in nursing resonated more with his goals. Embracing Transitions Ben's career showcases the power of being adaptable and open-minded. His transition from CNA to EMT to nurse was marked by his desire to gather diverse experiences. Each step allowed him to develop new skills, explore different aspects of healthcare, and build a foundation for future changes. Pursuing Passion and Change Transitioning within a field isn't just about switching roles; it's about aligning your passion with your profession. Ben's move from nursing to healthcare IT illustrates the importance of recognizing what aspects of a job make you feel fulfilled. His desire to remain connected to healthcare while moving into a more technology-focused role highlights the possibility of finding harmony between one's passion and professional growth. Recognizing the Need for Change Knowing when it's time to transition can be challenging. Ben's advice of evaluating personal growth and learning opportunities within your current role is crucial. Seeking mentorship, open communication and coffee talks can help you gain perspective on your situation. Asking yourself if you're genuinely happy and fulfilled is a vital step in determining if it's time to move on. Managing Transition Stress Making career changes often comes with stress. When faced with decisions, consider various factors such as financial stability and personal goals. Seeking advice from others can provide valuable insights and help you make a well-informed choice. Ben's emphasis on understanding your passions and finding a balance between your interests and responsibilities is key. Overcoming Challenges and Gaining New Skills Ben's shift from hospital to office brought new challenges, underscoring the importance of adaptability. Transitioning into a role where the job profile seems beyond your current experience requires a proactive approach. Understanding that skills can transfer and that learning on the job is possible can empower you to take on new challenges. Mastering Patience Throughout his journey, Ben's experiences underline a crucial lesson: patience. Career growth takes time, and it's essential to focus on gaining valuable experiences rather than rushing through tasks. While the world often emphasizes speed, success is built on a foundation of gradual learning and skill development. Ben Rosen's career story is a testament to the power of embracing change, seeking growth and aligning passion with profession. His transitions within the healthcare field and beyond highlight the importance of remaining open-minded and adaptable. Remember that change is not just a transition from one role to another; it's a journey of self-discovery and continuous learning. As you navigate your career path, take inspiration from Ben's story and approach change as an opportunity for growth and fulfillment. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2 August 2023 Kansas City, Kansas - Go Further Foundation, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to creating communities of young professionals committed to personal and professional growth, is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated return of its Annual Volleyball Tournament on September 16, 2023. This year's event promises to be bigger, better, and more impactful than ever before, bringing together participants, sponsors and spectators for an evening of fun and philanthropy. The Go Further Foundation Volleyball Tournament has become a beloved tradition within the community, and this year's edition is set to exceed all expectations. The tournament will take place at Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball, located at 19800 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS 66218, and will kick off at 3:00 PM. Participants of all skill levels are encouraged to form teams and register for a chance to showcase their volleyball skills while supporting a noble cause. With a commitment to bridge the importance of both personal and professional development and their ties with mental health, dedicated to supporting young professionals, all proceeds from the event will go towards funding the Go Further Foundation's various community outreach programs. These programs include peer-to-peer mentorship, executive coaching and mental health education and training, ensuring that every contribution made during the tournament will directly impact the lives of those in our community. "Our Annual Volleyball Tournament is not just about having a great time on the court, but also about coming together as a community to create lasting change when it comes to mental health," said Ryder Chaffee, Co-founder of Go Further Foundation. "This year, we aim to raise the bar higher and make an even greater impact on the community of those we serve. We are immensely grateful for the support of our participants and sponsors, as they play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission." The Go Further Foundation, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of young professionals who are committed to personal and professional growth, encourages local businesses and individuals to get involved in the event by becoming sponsors, providing in-kind donations, or signing up a team to ensure the tournament's success. Companies that choose to sponsor the event will not only gain valuable exposure to a diverse audience but will also showcase their commitment to our young professionals and mental health awareness in our community. In addition to the volleyball matches, attendees can look forward to a wide range of engaging activities throughout the day. From a DJ to raffle draws and food offered at Shawnee Mission Beach Volleyball, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Registration for the Go Further Foundation's Annual Volleyball Tournament is now open. To secure your spot, please visit http://bracketpal.com/GFF2023 and learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Mark Potts at [email protected]. About Go Further Foundation: The Go Further Foundation is a registered nonprofit organization dedicated to creating communities of young professionals committed to personal and professional growth. With various programs and initiatives, the foundation aims to make a positive impact on mental health by offering resources and structure that are consistent reminder that nobody on their journey alone. https://www.gofurtherfoundation.org/ For media inquiries or more information about the event, please contact: Mark Potts Go Further Foundation Email: [email protected] Phone: (913) 957-3626 ### |
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