Finding Balance in Self-Care

Finding Balance in Self-Care

by | Mar 10, 2025 | Self-care

How Modesty Helps Us Avoid Extremes

Self-care is essential to maintaining physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Yet, it’s easy to fall into extremes—either neglecting our needs entirely or overindulging in unsustainable ways. The virtue of modesty provides a middle path, guiding us toward balanced, realistic self-care that nourishes us without excess or guilt.

What Does Modest Self-Care Look Like Compared to Self-Indulgence?

Modest self-care involves intentional, sustainable choices that support our well-being without becoming excessive or self-indulgent. While self-care is necessary, it can sometimes become overindulgent if it becomes an excuse for neglecting responsibilities or seeking comfort in ways that don’t truly restore us.

      • Modest Self-Care: A 10-minute walk, journaling for clarity, prioritizing rest, or enjoying a simple pleasure like a cup of tea.
      • Self-Indulgence: Binge-watching shows for hours instead of addressing stressors, overspending on luxuries in the name of self-care, or avoiding responsibilities under the guise of “taking a break.”

The key difference? Modest self-care leaves you feeling refreshed and balanced, while self-indulgence often leads to guilt or dissatisfaction.

How Do We Know When Self-Care Is Excessive or Unrealistic?

Finding balance involves acknowledging when our self-care routines start to become excessive. Consider these questions:

      • Is this self-care improving my long-term well-being or just offering short-term relief?
      • Does this habit align with my values, or is it becoming an escape?
      • Am I neglecting essential responsibilities under the name of self-care?
      • Do I feel recharged afterward, or do I still feel drained and unfulfilled?

When self-care becomes excessive, it often lacks boundaries and purpose. A modest approach ensures that our self-care choices fit naturally within our lives without creating unnecessary stress, guilt, or avoidance of reality.

How Can Modesty Help Us Focus on Progress Instead of Perfection?

One of the biggest challenges in self-care is the pressure to do it “perfectly.” Modesty teaches us that progress is more important than perfection. Instead of feeling discouraged when we miss a workout or don’t meditate daily, we can adopt a gentle, flexible approach that accommodates life’s unpredictability.

Ways to Practice Modest, Progress-Focused Self-Care:

      • Set Reachable Goals – Instead of aiming for an hour-long workout, commit to 10 minutes of movement and build from there.
      • Embrace “Good Enough” – Self-care might sometimes mean deep breathing for two minutes instead of an entire morning routine. That’s okay!
      • Listen to Your Needs – Some days require rest; others require activity. Modest self-care allows for adjustments based on what your body and mind need.
      • Avoid Comparison – Your self-care routine doesn’t need to resemble anyone else’s. Focus on what works best for you without succumbing to the pressure of unrealistic standards.

A Final Thought: Self-Care as a Lifelong Practice

Self-care should be a lifelong practice, not an occasional luxury or a task to conquer. The virtue of modesty enables us to approach self-care with balance, sustainability, and self-compassion—ensuring we care for ourselves in ways that are realistic, meaningful, and truly restorative.

Reflection Question:

What is one small, modest self-care habit you can start today that feels doable and fulfilling?

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf! 

Joseph Michael
The Quiet Power of Modesty in a Loud World

The Quiet Power of Modesty in a Loud World

by | Mar 1, 2025 | Virtues

“True modesty does not mean thinking less of yourself; it means thinking of yourself less.” – C.S. Lewis

Welcome to this month’s Virtue Quest, where we take a deep dive into the virtue of modesty—not as a restriction, but as a powerful, liberating force in a world that often demands constant self-promotion.

In a society where success is measured in likes, follows, and the ability to “sell yourself,” modesty might seem outdated, even weak. But here’s the truth: modesty is not about hiding your light—it’s about shining in a way that invites others to shine, too.

This week, we’re focusing on modesty in self-expression, particularly in how we present ourselves, our achievements, and our opinions in everyday life.

The Myth of Modesty: It’s Not About Playing Small

Modesty has long been misunderstood. Some believe it means downplaying your strengths, deflecting praise, or making yourself invisible. But true modesty is not self-erasure—it’s self-awareness. It’s the art of balancing confidence with humility, recognizing our worth without demanding the spotlight.

Imagine two types of people in a conversation:

      • The Over-Announcer – They turn every topic into a highlight reel of their achievements. (Think: “That reminds me of the time I single-handedly saved the project.”)
      • The Understated Presence – They contribute meaningfully, share insights, and acknowledge others without constantly redirecting attention to themselves.

Which person do you enjoy being around more?

Modesty doesn’t mean hiding your accomplishments; it means sharing them in a way that uplifts rather than overshadows.

Modesty in the Age of Self-Promotion

Let’s be honest: we live in a world where self-promotion is often necessary. Whether in job interviews, social media, or networking events, we’re expected to “put ourselves out there.” So, how do we balance healthy confidence with true modesty?

Here’s a three-part filter to check if you’re practicing modest self-expression:

      • Motivation Check: Why am I sharing this? – Is it to inspire, inform, or encourage? Or is it to seek validation?
      • Room for Others: Am I allowing space for others to shine? – Are you elevating others in the conversation, or is it all about you?
      • Gracious Confidence: Can I share my successes with gratitude instead of boasting? – “I’m grateful for the chance to have worked on this project” sounds different from “I’m the reason this project succeeded.”

Modest self-expression is not about hiding; it’s about making sure our voice doesn’t drown out others.

Practical Ways to Cultivate Modesty in Daily Life

How can we grow in this virtue without slipping into false humility or diminishing ourselves? Here are three small but impactful practices:

1. Listen More Than You Speak

In conversations, aim to listen twice as much as you talk. Instead of waiting for your turn to speak, engage with curiosity. Ask questions. Recognize that everyone has something valuable to offer.

2. Acknowledge Others

A modest person celebrates the successes of others just as much as their own. If someone compliments your work, try responding with “Thank you! I had a great team to support me” instead of a self-deprecating brush-off or an ego boost.

3. Let Actions Speak Louder Than Words

A truly modest person doesn’t need to constantly advertise their virtues—they live them. Whether in kindness, generosity, or expertise, let your work speak for itself.

The Strength in Modesty

Modesty is not weakness. It is self-assurance without arrogance, wisdom without self-importance, and confidence without the need for applause. It allows us to walk through life with grace, inviting connection rather than competition.

In a world that equates loudness with success, choosing modesty is an act of quiet strength.

So this week, as you embark on your Virtue Quest, take a moment to ask yourself:

Am I making space for others in my conversations?

Am I confident in my strengths without needing to broadcast them?

Am I practicing the kind of modesty that brings out the best in myself and those around me?

Modesty is not about making yourself smaller—it’s about making the world around you bigger.

Happy Questing!

Would love to hear your thoughts: How do you balance confidence and modesty in your own life? Drop a comment and let’s discuss!

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf! 

Joseph Michael
Love and Boundaries Create Healthy Relationships

Love and Boundaries Create Healthy Relationships

by | Feb 25, 2025 | Parenting, Relationships, Self-care, Virtues

Love is often thought of as limitless—an open, giving force that knows no bounds. And yet, the healthiest expressions of love exist within clear and respectful boundaries. Contrary to what some might believe, boundaries do not limit love; they protect and sustain it. When love and boundaries work together, they create relationships rooted in trust, respect, and emotional well-being.

So how do love and boundaries complement each other, and how can we apply them in our family and community relationships?

What Are Boundaries, and Why Do They Matter?

Boundaries are the personal guidelines we establish to protect our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They define what is acceptable and what is not in our relationships. Healthy boundaries help us:

      • Maintain our sense of self while loving others
      • Prevent resentment and burnout
      • Communicate our needs effectively
      • Create a safe and respectful environment

When we set boundaries, we are not withholding love; we are ensuring that love is sustainable, mutual, and nurturing rather than overwhelming, one-sided, or harmful.

Love Without Boundaries: The Risk of Overgiving

When love exists without boundaries, it can lead to unhealthy dynamics:

      • Parental Overgiving: Parents who don’t set limits may struggle with discipline, leading to a lack of structure in their children’s lives. They may also sacrifice their own well-being to “keep the peace,” which can lead to burnout.
      • Friendships Without Balance: A friendship where one person is always giving and the other is always taking can create resentment over time.
      • Romantic Relationships Without Respect: If one partner continually sacrifices their needs or accepts harmful behaviors in the name of love, the relationship can become unhealthy or even toxic.

Love, without boundaries, can become exhausting. Instead of being a force that nurtures both people, it turns into an obligation or burden.

Boundaries Without Love: The Risk of Isolation

While boundaries are essential, they must be balanced with love. If we set rigid, unyielding boundaries without care, we may push people away rather than build strong connections.

For example:

      • A parent who is too strict without warmth may create fear instead of trust.
      • A person who sets harsh boundaries without compassion may come across as distant or unapproachable.
      • A community that values rules over relationships may struggle to foster genuine belonging.

The key is balance—boundaries should be rooted in love, and love should be protected by healthy boundaries.

How Love and Boundaries Work Together

1. Love Provides the Foundation, Boundaries Provide the Structure

Think of love as the foundation of a home and boundaries as the walls. The foundation makes the home strong, but the walls provide safety and security. In relationships, love is what connects us, and boundaries define how we interact in ways that protect and honor one another.

For example, a parent may deeply love their child but still set limits on screen time, bedtime, or respectful communication. The child may not always like these boundaries, but they create a secure, loving environment.

2. Boundaries Communicate Love and Respect

Clear boundaries communicate to others:

      • “I value our relationship enough to be honest about my needs.”
      • “I love and respect myself enough to set limits.”
      • “I care about you enough to ensure our relationship is mutually respectful.”

For instance, in a friendship, setting a boundary might mean saying, “I love being there for you, but I also need time to recharge. Let’s plan a time to talk instead of texting late at night.” This ensures both people’s needs are respected.

3. Love Gives Boundaries Their Flexibility

While boundaries should be clear, they should also be flexible when appropriate. Love allows us to adapt our boundaries with wisdom and discernment.

For example, a couple may have a general boundary about personal space but recognize that during difficult times, more closeness and reassurance are needed. A parent may have firm rules but also show compassion when a child is struggling.

Practical Ways to Balance Love and Boundaries

      • Know Your Own Needs and Limits – Reflect on what is important for your well-being. Do you need alone time? Clear communication? Emotional honesty? Define what makes you feel valued and respected in relationships.
      • Communicate Boundaries with Kindness – Boundaries should be expressed with warmth and clarity. Instead of saying, “Stop bothering me,” try “I need some quiet time right now, but I’d love to connect later.”
      • Be Consistent, but Compassionate – Healthy boundaries are not about control; they are about care. Consistency is key, but always allow room for understanding.
      • Teach Children That Love and Boundaries Go Together – Model for your children that saying “no” doesn’t mean you don’t love someone. Show them how to respect others’ boundaries while also standing firm in their own.
      • Recognize That Boundaries Protect Relationships – Setting a boundary does not mean rejecting someone; it means honoring the relationship by ensuring it is built on mutual respect.

Love Flourishes Within Healthy Boundaries

When love and boundaries work together, relationships become healthier, stronger, and more fulfilling. Love without boundaries leads to exhaustion; boundaries without love lead to isolation. But when we cultivate both, we create relationships that are safe, nurturing, and lasting.

Boundaries are not a barrier to love—they are the structure that allows love to thrive. By setting and respecting healthy limits, we can build relationships that are full of trust, joy, and deep connection.

Reflection Question: Are there relationships that need boundaries in your life?

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf! 

Joseph Michael

The Four Types of Love Every Family Needs

The Four Types of Love Every Family Needs

by | Feb 24, 2025 | Parenting, Virtues

Four Words to Describe Love

The ancient Greeks had a rich understanding of love, recognizing that love takes different forms in human relationships. They used four distinct words to describe various types of love: Storge, Philia, Eros, and Agape.

Each of these forms of love plays a vital role in family life. Let’s explore their meanings and practical applications in creating a loving, nurturing family environment.

1. Storge (στοργή) – Familial Love

Definition: Storge is the deep, natural affection that exists between family members, particularly between parents and children. It is an unconditional, steady kind of love that grows over time.

Practical Application in Family Life:

      • Storge is expressed in the everyday care and protection family members provide for each other.
      • It shows up in the small but meaningful acts—making meals, offering comfort after a bad day, and providing a sense of security.
      • Parents demonstrate storge by consistently being there for their children, guiding them with patience and nurturing them with kindness.
      • Siblings may express storge by standing up for one another, sharing responsibilities, or maintaining a lifelong bond despite differences.

When storge is nurtured, children feel safe, accepted, and deeply loved simply for who they are, not for what they achieve.

2. Philia (φιλία) – Friendship and Mutual Love

Definition: Philia is the love of deep friendship, loyalty, and mutual respect. It is the love found in close companionships and is based on shared values, trust, and mutual support.

Practical Application in Family Life:

      • Parents can cultivate philia by creating strong, respectful relationships with their children—engaging in meaningful conversations, listening to their ideas, and valuing their perspectives.
      • Siblings and spouses can foster philia by treating each other as trusted allies rather than rivals. A good sibling or spouse is not just family but also a true friend.
      • Families that build their foundation on friendship enjoy a sense of ease, fun, and deep connection in their relationships.
      • Setting aside time for family bonding—game nights, heart-to-heart talks, or working together on projects—strengthens philia.

Philia helps families move beyond just duty and obligation and creates a sense of genuine companionship, making home a place of belonging.

3. Eros (ἔρως) – Romantic and Passionate Love

Definition: Eros refers to romantic love, attraction, and deep emotional connection between partners. While it often includes physical passion, it also encompasses the longing for union and intimacy in a committed relationship.

Practical Application in Family Life:

        • A strong, loving marriage or partnership is the cornerstone of a healthy family. When parents nurture their romantic connection, they model what a loving, respectful relationship looks like for their children.
        • Expressing appreciation, maintaining affectionate gestures (such as holding hands, complimenting each other, and spending quality time together), and keeping the romance alive contribute to a stable home environment.
        • Healthy Eros involves deep emotional connection and commitment, not just passion. When couples work through challenges with patience and respect, they create a lasting, loving partnership.
        • Children feel secure when they see their parents prioritizing their relationship, demonstrating that love is not just a feeling but a choice and a practice.

By nurturing Eros within a committed relationship, couples create a foundation of love that strengthens the entire family.

4. Agape (ἀγάπη) – Selfless, Unconditional Love

Definition: Agape is the highest form of love—selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. It is love that seeks the best for others without expecting anything in return. Agape is often associated with divine love and a commitment to loving others with grace and forgiveness.

Practical Application in Family Life:

      • Parents express agape when they continue to love and support their children, even through difficulties, mistakes, and rebellious phases.
      • Siblings practice agape when they show forgiveness instead of holding grudges, choosing kindness over conflict.
      • Spouses embody agape when they remain committed through hardships, offering understanding, patience, and encouragement.
      • Families that prioritize acts of service, kindness, and generosity create an environment where agape is lived out daily.

Agape love keeps a family together, even when emotions fluctuate. It reminds each family member that they are loved not because of what they do, but simply because they are part of the family.

The Balance of Love in Family Life

Each of these four types of love plays a vital role in creating a strong, thriving family:

  • Storge provides security and belonging.
  • Philia strengthens the bonds of friendship and mutual respect.
  • Eros deepens the marital relationship, setting a foundation for the family.
  • Agape sustains love through hardships and teaches the true essence of selflessness.

A healthy, loving family is one where all four types of love are nurtured and balanced. When families cultivate these different expressions of love, they create a home where each member feels valued, supported, and cherished.

Reflection Question: How do these descriptions broaden your understanding of Love the Virtue?

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf! 

Joseph Michael

Self-awareness: A Balancing Force Helping Parents

Self-awareness: A Balancing Force Helping Parents

by | Feb 19, 2025 | Parenting

Self-awareness is a powerful tool for parents, one that can ensure their love for their children is balanced and healthy. When cultivated, it is a practice that can help parents recognize and address their fears and expectations, ensuring they do not inadvertently pass them on to their children. The role of self-awareness in parenting is a delicate and often underrated dance. It requires parents to be honest with themselves, recognize their flaws and strengths, and understand how their past experiences and emotions may impact their parenting.

For example, a parent who experienced a traumatic event in their childhood may, without self-awareness, inadvertently raise their child in an overly protective manner rooted in fear and anxiety. Similarly, a parent with high expectations of their child’s academic performance may, without self-reflection, push their child too hard, causing stress and a potential negative impact on the child’s mental health.

Self-awareness becomes a balancing force here, helping parents recognize and address these potential pitfalls. By practicing self-awareness, parents can create a safe and supportive environment for their children to grow and develop. It also allows parents to recognize when their fears and expectations cloud their judgment and enables them to make more balanced decisions.

For instance, a self-aware parent may recognize when their fear of failure influences their reaction to their child’s grades. They can then take a step back, address their own fears, and respond to their child from a place of love and support rather than anxiety and expectation. This practice also helps parents recognize their children’s unique strengths and personalities, allowing them to parent each child individually rather than through a one-size-fits-all approach.

Self-awareness is a journey, and it requires dedication and courage to face one’s own flaws and fears. It is an ongoing process; parents should be kind to themselves as they navigate this path.

The rewards, however, are immense, as self-awareness has the power to transform parental love and the overall family dynamic, creating a healthier and more supportive environment for all.

Balancing Parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families

Nurturing children requires a skillful blend of affection, direction, and granting them the autonomy to blossom into their unique identities. The cornerstone of thriving families rests upon four essential pillars: clear expectations, open dialogue, unwavering discipline, and strong social connections. This robust framework empowers parents to confidently guide their children’s development, circumventing the potential hazards of overbearing protection, excessive leniency, or imposing unattainable goals. By embracing these principles, parents foster a supportive environment that cultivates their children’s potential and ensures their well-being.

The Four C’s of Successful Families act as guiding stars, illuminating the way toward a harmonious and loving family dynamic.

      • Clarity, the first of these guiding lights, shines a beacon on a parent’s inner truth. Through clarity, parents can discern their authentic emotions and motivations, recognizing how their past experiences shape their present reactions. This self-knowledge empowers them to make conscious choices, ensuring their fears and expectations don’t cloud their judgment.
      • Communication, the second C, acts as a bridge, connecting parents to their children and to themselves. When parents communicate openly and honestly with their children, they create a safe space for their little ones to express their thoughts and feelings. This open dialogue fosters trust and understanding, allowing parents to tailor their parenting approach to each child’s unique needs and strengths.
      • Consistency, the steadfast third C, provides the foundation for a stable and secure family environment. By maintaining consistent routines and boundaries, parents offer their children a sense of predictability and safety. This consistency also extends to the parents themselves, as they consistently practice self-awareness, regularly checking in with their emotions and adjusting their behaviors accordingly.
      • Community, the final C, expands the circle of support beyond the immediate family unit. By cultivating a community of like-minded parents and supportive individuals, parents can seek guidance, share experiences, and learn from one another. This sense of connection and shared wisdom reinforces a parent’s self-awareness journey, providing a network of encouragement and fresh perspectives.

Together, the Four C’s empower parents to navigate the intricate dance of self-awareness with grace and confidence. They provide a framework for parents to transform their love into a balanced force, nurturing their children’s growth and helping them blossom into their true selves. It is a challenging yet rewarding journey, and with the Four C’s as their compass, parents can find the wisdom and courage to create a thriving family dynamic.

Joe is a husband, father, grandfather, author, speaker, educator, course creator, and parent/family coach.

He helps parents develop unity, find clarity, communicate, and develop consistency in their parenting with the Four C’s of Successful Families. You can find his work on social media.

In addition, the Four C’s newsletter is enjoyed by many as it encourages parents to self-care, build their relationships with their partners, and raise their children. 

And he loves to golf! 

Joseph Michael