How we Belong - self-actualization on We Deserve Better - Dorrin Rosenfeld

Expecting the Unexpected; that's what Catherine Gruener tells parents to help their children thrive. She believes that understanding one's own strengths and transforming weaknesses can help children thrive in their environments. That is advice we all need to hear when circumstances change and we no longer seem to be in control of our lives.

Self-Actualization has been her focus for years. Part of this process was fueled by watching the family of a high school classmate fall apart after the traumatic brain injury of the brother of her friend. When outside circumstances cause a change, it's important for the entire family to learn how to deal with the new normal. This process is about blending the view "from within" and "from outside."

This series of steps involves staying connected to both the soul and one's true essence. It is important to honor every person for who they are. We're always shaping our sense of belonging and our importance to the world. To help people fit in, it is important to ask questions rather than imposing our own opinions. This allows us to see each individual for who that person really is.