Lori Kaniewski, NCC, LCPC, LPC

02/13/2026

02/13/2026

02/11/2026

Let’s contemplate a word together.

What do you think of when you see the word BALANCE?

How does that word impact your life?

Stay tuned for more contemplations!

02/11/2026

Before you say ‘both sides are boundaries’, I invite you to hear me out. A boundary is about communicating your needs and limits in a way that prioritizes your well-being. On the other hand, statements that attempt to dictate what someone else should or shouldn’t do can be ineffective, as they shift the focus away from your own agency and onto controlling the other person’s actions “Stop asking me personal questions” or “Don’t call me when I’m at work” are framed as commands. While they may seem clear, they place the responsibility for change on the other person, which often leads to defensiveness

People don’t like feeling controlled, and these statements come across as attempts to dictate their behavior. This approach makes it harder to maintain a respectful relationship dynamic

In contrast, boundaries that focus on your actions and choices are far more effective. So, instead of saying,
“Stop asking me personal questions,” you could say, “I’m not ready to talk about this yet, it’s too personal.” This statement shifts the focus to your own feelings and needs. Similarly, “I can’t answer your calls during work hours because I lose focus” is much more effective than “Don’t call me when I’m at work.” These statements clarify what you will or won’t do, rather than telling the other person what they must do. This approach feels less like a demand and more like an expression of self-respect, which increases the likelihood that others will respect it too

If you’re not particularly concerned about the relationship, then sure, you might use statements like the ones on the left. Plus, some people take politeness for granted and need to be communicated with more harshly so these statements may be better. If you do care about the relationship or want to be mindful of the other person’s feelings, it doesn’t take much more effort to communicate your boundary in a kinder, more respectful tone. This approach still gets your message across, but it also lowers the chances of backlash or misunderstanding

Reposting this older post because we can all use a reminder on boundaries every now and then 😌

Take care of your mind and body. Love, Nawal ♥️

02/10/2026

02/09/2026

Lately, I’ve been sitting with a word I learned recently: bloomscrolling.

It’s not a formal dictionary word (yet), but it’s being used to describe something many of us are craving.

Bloomscrolling means scrolling with intention, choosing content that feels life-giving instead of draining.

Stories that heal.
Words that slow you down.
Reminders that God is still good,
even on hard days.

In a world where doomscrolling is easy and anxiety spreads fast, bloomscrolling is a soft rebellion.

If you’re here, I hope this page becomes that kind of space for you.
A place you don’t leave heavier.
A place that reminds you to breathe.
A place where faith and healing are allowed to take their time.

If you’ve been tired of carrying too much, maybe you weren’t meant to scroll harder.. maybe you were meant to bloom.

Welcome. 🌱

02/04/2026

Let’s contemplate a word together.

What do you think of when you see the word PLAY?

How does that word impact your life?

Stay tuned for more contemplations!

02/04/2026

These pairs often get confused because they can look identical from the outside - and sometimes even feel similar in the moment.

The key isn’t waiting to see how you feel after. It’s getting clear on what outcome you’re actually working toward.

⭐️Accountability vs. Shame: Do you want to learn from this mistake and do better next time? Or are you just beating yourself up on repeat? Accountability is future-focused. Shame keeps you stuck in the past.

⭐️Processing vs. Ruminating: Are you working through the emotion to reach understanding? Or are you replaying the same thoughts without resolution? Processing has movement. Ruminating is a closed loop.

⭐️ Boundaries vs. Walls: Do you want to protect yourself while staying open to connection? Or are you shutting people out completely? Boundaries are selective. Walls are total.

⭐️ Assertiveness vs. Aggression: Are you standing up for your needs while respecting the other person? Or are you bulldozing over them to get your way? Assertiveness honors both people. Aggression only honors one.

➡️ The distinguishing question: What am I trying to create here?

When you’re clear on the outcome you actually want - growth, resolution, safety with connection, mutual respect - it becomes easier to recognize which path gets you there.

02/01/2026

01/28/2026

Let’s contemplate a word together.

What do you think of when you see the word SPONTANEITY?

How does that word impact your life?

Stay tuned for more contemplations!

01/23/2026

Here comes the sun! 🌞