What Version of “You” Are You Running?

How to upgrade your mindset and model motivation from the inside out.

Last week, my phone froze right before a Zoom call—classic timing. 😅

Instead of panicking, I did what most of us do: I restarted it, cleared a few apps, and gave it a moment to breathe. It struck me how easy it is to give our phones the grace of a quick reset… but we rarely offer that same reset to ourselves or our kids.

When emotions run high or motivation runs low, maybe it’s not about being “off”—maybe we just need a little update.

That got me thinking about how tiny upgrades to our habits, routines, or self-talk can help us reboot emotionally too. Not by changing who we are, but by giving ourselves permission to grow.

One of the best ways to explain this to kids is with a fun comparison I learned from Vishen Lakhiani at Mindvalley. He talks about how just like we upgrade or reboot our phones, we can do the same in life.

Our 'hardware' is what we believe about ourselves (Models of Reality), and our 'software' is our daily habits and choices (Systems of Living). When something isn’t working, maybe it’s time for an upgrade!

Let’s explore how to bring that mindset home. 🧠✨

Guiding the Gifted Heart

"My 12-year-old son was adopted when he was a baby. He’s a kind boy and really smart, but he doesn’t seem motivated to do much. He likes things like engineering and coding, but even then, he gets distracted or gives up easily. I want to help him believe in himself and feel excited about learning, but I’m not sure how. What can I do?"— Nnaemeka I.

Nnaemeka, it’s clear you care deeply about your son and want to see him grow into his full potential.

When kids seem unmotivated, it’s easy to think something’s wrong. But here’s a mindset shift I love to share: motivation isn’t missing—it’s just hiding. And that’s because motivation is a bit of a monkey—it swings in, swings out, and can be super unpredictable (let alone, unreliable).

So instead of chasing motivation, we can outsmart it. Here’s how:

Get Clear on What He Wants (Not What He “Should” Do)

Instead of aiming straight for big goals like “become an engineer,” try asking him what he wishes he could do more of right now. Maybe it’s building things, figuring stuff out, or just having quiet time to tinker. That’s your starting point.

Offer Small Options That Spark a Smile

No pressure. Just possibilities. Could he design a LEGO invention? Watch a short how-it-works video? Sketch something cool? Tiny wins build real momentum.

Show Him What Growth Looks Like—In You

This is the part we often forget. Kids learn best by watching us. Try something new yourself—a small upgrade, like starting a new book, doing a puzzle, or learning a new skill—and let him see you enjoying the process. Check out my identity shift tips from my blog I’m the Kind of Parent Who...

Helping our kids build inner drive isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about opening the door, stepping in with them, and reminding them (and ourselves!) that change doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful.

You're doing better than you think. Keep showing up with love, and trust the process—tiny steps, every day.

Have a parenting challenge you'd love some fresh insight on? Email your question my way—I’d love to help!

🎧 Podcast Feature – Episode 46 of Dream Cultivators

We’re excited to shine a spotlight on a powerful and heart-centered episode of the Dream Cultivators podcast that aligns beautifully with our mission to support young changemakers. Episode 46 is an inspiring conversation that centers on emotional growth, empathy, and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in children.

In this episode, host Shenita McLean sits down with two incredible women: La Shaunn Spivey-Angeletti, a passionate advocate for emotional wellness and community building, and Sylvia Tam, founder of Raising Empowered Kids—and a valued member of our own educator team. Together, they explore how love, emotional intelligence, and empathy are essential foundations for raising not just future entrepreneurs, but well-rounded, compassionate human beings.

La Shaunn brings a deeply moving perspective on how emotional awareness helps children and educators connect more meaningfully, while Sylvia offers her thoughtful insights on fostering a sense of purpose and empowerment in young learners. Sylvia’s contributions reflect the heart of what we do—and we’re proud to see her voice represented in this important conversation.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, and anyone committed to nurturing the whole child. Tune in and be inspired by this soulful and practical dialogue:
🎙 Listen on Apple Podcasts
🎧 Listen on Spotify

Before we go, I want to share that I had the most empowering Mother’s Day this year—not with breakfast in bed, but by spending the weekend with seven incredible women I’ve had the honor of interviewing on my Mompreneurs Raising Kidpreneurs podcast. These mamas are living proof that when we show up with heart and vision, amazing things unfold.

Someone at the event said it best: “When women come together—fully aligned, fully empowered, and fully in their truth—the impossible becomes possible.”

I felt that deep in my bones. And I want you to feel it too.

So here’s my invitation: Send those same empowering vibrations out into your own community. Maybe it starts with a Saturday walk, a message, or a smoothie bowl meetup. Feel free to post in the REK Facebook Group too! However it looks, the parenting journey is more fun and successful together.

We’re not just raising kids—we’re raising the world.