What do we really want for our kids? Most parents say happiness, success, love, good health, financial stability, or a solid education. But when you break it down, every one of those desires points to one thing: a feeling.

I’ve heard much complaint over the past few years about how teen choose to identify, and I have to say, it’s the teens, not the adults who have it right…mostly.

We’re acting like we’re powerless, at the mercy of everyone else’s words. But we’re not. We are in control of how we feel. Our brain is what gives meaning to words. It happens so fast that we don’t notice, but it’s always our thoughts, not the words themselves, that create our emotions.

Everything matters. What you say, what you don't say, it all adds up. Whether you're raising kids or training horses, you're always communicating. The question is: what message are you sending?

Is your environment shaping your growth, or limiting it? In this article, I’ll walk you through how to take charge of your relationships, your time, and your input. Because if you want to reach your full potential, you’ve got to stop letting your surroundings happen to you, and start happening to them.

“Fully accepting ourselves and unconditionally loving ourselves is not a good idea. It is our duty to mankind. For without a commitment to pursue this ideal, we cannot fully love the people we deeply care about or make the contribution to the world that we were destined to make. Disregarding this endeavor not only limits ourselves, we limit our full sphere of influence.” – Shane Jacob