As the summer comes to an end, it’s time to prepare for the exciting transition to college life for some. This period can be both thrilling, scary, and overwhelming, especially when it comes to balancing academic responsibilities, socializing, and adjusting to a whole new environment. In this blog post, we will explore how to have conversations with your loved ones, using the CMC (Center for Motivation and Change) ITC (The Invitation To Change) approach to help them navigate college successfully.
1. Understand the CMC ITC Approach:
Familiarize yourself with the CMC ITC approach, which emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and curiosity. This approach encourages open communication and mutual understanding, creating a safe space for both you and your loved one. For now if you are not familiar with the ITC Approach that is quite all right. Use this blog as a guide for now! Find out more after you read it.
I highly suggest you purchase the Invitation To Change, A short guide workbook from CMC “The Invitation to Change: A Short Guide (Print Edition)” while your kids are off to College. You can read it and learn something new too!!
2. Express Your Support:
Start the conversation by expressing your support and excitement for their college journey. Let them know that you are there to provide guidance and assistance as they navigate this new chapter in their life. Even though your kids know you are there for them. Let them know again, tell them that you are always available to talk about anything. Nothing is too small when they are away.
3. Discuss Time Management:
Talk about the importance of time management and finding a balance between studying and socializing. Encourage them to carve out dedicated study time and create a schedule that allows for both academic commitments and social activities. I invite you to choose to speak to your Loved Ones about this balance. For example saying you are not at college to make friends, does not help your loved one figure out how to balance this new college life when people, parties and Substances are part of the exposure and possibly their new normal. With that I say, Let’s meet our Loved Ones where they are at.
4. Explore Study Strategies:
Discuss different study strategies and help them identify what works best for them. Encourage them to utilize resources such as study groups, the library (that saved me), tutoring services, or academic support centers on campus. Emphasize the importance of seeking help when needed. Have this first conversation before they leave for school or start school.
5. Address Social Pressures:
Acknowledge the social pressures that come with college life, including new friends, parties, and social events. Discuss the importance of making responsible choices and setting personal boundaries. Explain that Boundaries are okay and can be very personal and it is okay to be different. What this might look like: Everyone wants to stay at the party until 2 am. Your child wants to always leave by 12am that is a personal boundary that will be challenged by their Peers wanting to have a good time, just caught up in the fun (this still happens to me as an adult, pressure from others). Encourage open communication about their experiences and any concerns they may have. You might hear somethings you do not like. I invite you to try to be as open as possible without making your Loved One feel badly. For some of us this whole thing I am saying might not make sense or you are not able to relate to this idea of pressure in college, of friends and all the extra social media pressures. That is okay if you don’t. Having the conversation anyway helps open up communication with your loved ones.
6. Foster Healthy Relationships:
Talk about the importance of building healthy relationships in college. Encourage them to seek out like-minded individuals who share their values and interests. Discuss the significance of surrounding themselves with supportive friends who will positively contribute to their college experience.
7. Encourage Self-Care:
Highlight the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Discuss the benefits of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep. Encourage them to prioritize their well-being and seek out campus resources for mental health support if needed. Remind your family that getting or asking for help is always a good idea. Encourage doing things for ourselves is not selfish. Here is a blog post on that, “The Importance of Self-Care in Achieving Personal Growth and Success.”
8. Emphasize Flexibility and Adaptability:
Remind your loved one that college is a time of growth and learning. Encourage them to embrace new experiences, be open to change, and adapt to the challenges that may arise. Remind them that it’s okay to make mistakes and that learning from them is part of the journey.
Having conversations with your loved one about preparing for college and navigating the various aspects of college life is crucial for their success and well-being. Visit conversations periodically. Try not to wait until you see something is wrong. Follow your intuition when dealing with your College Kids. Remember to come from kindness and empathy. Some of you know the quote, You catch more bees with honey then you do vinegar. Same is true with our own families. By using the CMC ITC approach, you can create a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters open communication and mutual understanding. Remember to express your support, discuss time management and study strategies, address social pressures, foster healthy relationships, encourage self-care, and emphasize flexibility and adaptability. With your guidance and support, your loved one can thrive and make the most of their college experience.
If you have any further questions or need additional guidance, maybe a Coach is the way to go to support you and your family at this time. Feel free to reach out to me.
Contact me at 516-984-3756 or click the button below.
Wishing you well always..
Peace, Love, & Tapping,
Cassandra Toppi
