DRAWING THE LINE WITH LOVE HELP YOUR KIDS FLY, WHILE YOU SET THE BOUNDARIES
Watching your children grow into independent adults is one of life’s greatest joys — but just because your kids are grown doesn’t mean they won’t test your limits now and then. As they build their own lives, the relationship between parent and child shifts, and deciding where to draw the line can be challenging. If you’re an empty nester, it’s time to redefine and set healthy boundaries that protect your time, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s financial independence, personal space, or learning to say “no” without guilt, establishing
space. Remember, you are forging a new relationship with them, becoming more of a mentor than a director. Resist the urge to immediately run to their aid because the more lessons they learn for themselves, the more self-confidence they will build. RECOGNIZE YOUR LIMITS Your life, needs, and routine also undergo significant changes as your child enters adulthood and leaves home. It’s time to identify your own desires, plans, and limits. Communicate
clear expectations can strengthen your relationship with your grown kids while allowing you to enjoy this exciting new chapter. EMBRACE THEIR INDEPENDENCE Though they will always be your baby, the first step in setting new boundaries is acknowledging their independence and adulthood. Your children need to make their own decisions and mistakes and find their own belief system, no matter how much it may differ from yours. Set flexible boundaries that give them the space to problem-solve without your interference. Though it may be your first instinct to provide them with advice or guidance, they may want
clearly with your children about what you’re doing with your time, and learn to say “no” if their behavior or expectations overstep your boundaries. It could be as simple as saying you can’t cover their bills for them, but you’ll help them look for a new job or set up a savings account. Remain open to discussion and change, but stay consistent. Having more time for yourself is an emotional transition, too, so practice self-care. Taking care of yourself will model healthy behaviors for your children in their adult lives — and enable you to live the life you choose.
Inside Phil’s Inspiring Golf Program Where Joy Meets the Fairway
It’s not every day you come across someone who blends passion, purpose, and care all together, but that’s precisely what our client
Whether hosting field trips at Queen’s Harbour, visiting children at Wolfson Children’s Hospital through the Smiles for Life program, or working with schools like the North Florida School for Special Education, Phil’s energy is
Phil has done with Gifts in Golf (GIG), a nonprofit organization he founded to make golf accessible and joyful for individuals with special needs. After a meaningful experience in 2009, working with a young boy with Down syndrome in Miami, Phil was inspired to create a program that could share the love of golf with a broader community. What started with one child and a few pieces of adapted equipment quickly blossomed into a full-fledged mission — to provide professional, inclusive golf instruction to people of all abilities. Now based in Jacksonville, Phil and his wife Beth (GIG’s executive director) are bringing that mission to life through a variety of programs at local schools and hospitals and their upcoming
contagious. He creates an environment where kids feel welcome, parents feel hopeful, and everyone walks away smiling. Golf is only the beginning — GIG emphasizes life skills like patience, teamwork, persistence, and confidence, all learned while having a blast on the course. GIG is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies on grants, donations, volunteers, and partnerships with schools and community groups to keep growing. If you’d like to support their mission or register a child for camp, visit GiftsInGolf.org.
Phil’s goal is to make sure golf and the joy it brings are something everyone can experience. And judging by the smiles, “high fives,” and laughter at every event, he’s definitely on the right path. Thanks for all you do, Phil! You’re incredible!
Summer Camp, which is now open for registration at GiftsInGolf. org. The camp is inclusive, adaptive, and, most importantly, fun, with colorful equipment, encouraging instructors, and a large focus on ability over disability.
2 | 904-232-8760
2 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! Jacksonville & Fleming Island
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator