Do you have Expat DNA?

My love for infographics is obvious. ExpatChild published one on Expat DNA which has been around for a while but is worth deciphering. Which Expat are you?

Breaking down the Expat DNA:

What makes a great expat:
The ability to adapt to change – being flexible.
Keeping an open mind on the people and cultures that you encounter.
Learning & Speaking the local language.
Living, eating and going about life like the locals do and enjoying it : Being local.
Keen to observe and absorb the sights, sounds, smells and sensations that the world has to offer.
Open to new experiences and learning something new everyday.

Bad expat DNA:
Doesn’t stop complaining (Language is too hard, people are too rude or different).
Prefer to mingle only with expats who are similar to themselves.
Not making an effort to try the local foods or adhere to local customs.
Lead their lives like they did in their home country: resistant to change.
Gets homesick at the first thought of their home country.

Irrelevant DNA:
Being a well travelled individual has no bearing on being an expat. First time expats have just as much fun.
Have a high paying job – not a prerequisite to leading a fun and happy expat life.

New Year's Resolutions 2017

Time for New Year's Resolutions... Have you made your New Year’s resolutions yet? Why not find a unique New Year’s resolution that can actually transform your life? And, maybe you’ll even have a chance of sticking to it? Something that is more interesting will naturally keep your interest.

So, here are a few unique New Year’s Resolutions that you chould try. Pick one, two, three, or all four.

A Daily Act of Kindness
One of the best new year resolution ideas is to resolve to make at least one person’s life better each day. It can be as simple as buying someone’s coffee in line behind you to donating something to the local food bank. These happen a lot during the holidays, but not much afterwards.

Learn Something New
Can you design a web page? Want to play the guitar? Wish you could be an author? Always hoped to speak Italian? We all have things skills we wished we had or things we’ve always wanted to learn. The coming of the new year should remind you that you aren’t getting any younger. Resolve to actually learn a new skill or develop a talent. Be specific about what you want to learn and write down concrete steps to achieve it. For example, if you want to write a book, research the publishing process and maybe take a class on writing.

Get Involved In A Charity
Was your old year primarily focused on yourself? There’s nothing wrong with making yourself happy. However, selfish people rarely live meaningful and truly happy lives. That’s why, if you’re not already involved in charitable work, it could be a unique year’s resolution.
If you’re unsure what to choose, find what you care about. Maybe it’s mental illness, the homeless, animals, or another topic. Whatever it is, find a reputable charity and donate your time and energy to making a difference. You’ll help others and feel better yourself.

Make time for your physical health first
You spend many hours at the office or running around for others and there’s so much on your plate that you can’t even think about taking care of yourself? That needs to stop! No matter how busy your schedule gets or how much you want to accomplish in this world, you have to make time for your own physical health first. Eat healthier meals (and eat regularly), get enough sleep every night and exercise at least a few times a week. Keeping yourself in better physical shape will keep you in better mental shape.

Which resolution will yours be in 2017?

A date with the mycological society of Lugano

It is a Swiss tradition to go mushroom picking in the woods. But how to tell the good ones from the bad ones?

Well, one way is to bring them to your local pharmacy. Yes, mushroom selecting is just one of the many services a pharmacist is trained to do in Switzerland. Click here for the list: http://www.vapko.ch

You could also attend a lecture at the local school of Montagnola where a mushroom specialist will explain and show you the good ones from the bad ones for adult and kids!

Adriano Sassi who speaks Italian, French and English is a VAPKO expert and president of the Scientific Society Commission. He will lecture on the following themes:

• What are mushrooms?
• Observe to determine
• Main species and their habitats
• Mushrooms: their shape, habitat and growth.

Adriano Sassi will answer questions from the audience. You can bring your mushroom collection and have them checked by an expert.

Venue: Ticino's mushrooms
Where: Centro Scolastico Montagnola, Aula Magna,  6926 Montagnola
Date: Thursday, September 29th, 2016
Time: 20:00
The event is free!

When being an Expat does not work

Becoming an expatriate is as exciting as it is frightening. A new life away from home brings all kinds of new challenges. From new food and drinks to new habits and rituals. But you also encounter expat problems. Common expat problems are loneliness, cultural differences, sorting out health care, cost of living, finding proper schools for children, learning the language and relationship problems.

Here is an info graph about some issues an expat might come across. No, it is not always a smooth ride...

Those who make the move with a spouse face problems of their own. Some worry that their partner or family doesn’t seem happy with the decision. A travelling spouse may well have given up a career and suffered from a loss of income, which can affect the dynamic of the relationship. A large proportion of travelling spouses (65%) are unhappy with being financially dependent on their partner and 45% are concerned by the loss of financial independence.

Other factors can also have a negative impact: 52% of travelling spouses say their partner is always working long hours, 51% feel they are expected to organise all the practical aspects of their life abroad and 27% feel discriminated against because of their gender, an issue far more prevalent among women.

7 tips for better communication with your tweens and teens

Any parent of a tween or teen will know things change when the hormones kick in at puberty. If you throw an international move into the mix it does not make it easier. We may talk using words, but our looks, gestures and actions and even our silences all convey messages to our children.

At the end of the day, you know your child better than anyone, and you are best placed to help him/her. Below are some pointers to guide you on your way.

These tips are especially useful if you lead a mobile lifestyle, as having meaningful chats with your child during times of transition will help deepen your relationship, meaning you’ll both feel stronger.

1. Listen more than you talk
As philosopher Epictetus once said, "We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak."

2. Empathize with the child and his/her message.
Avoid giving instant solutions to your child. Advice can come later, when/if they ask for it.

3. Show acceptance
Clearly communicate acceptance of the child and what they are trying to say.

4. Talk with your child, rather than at him/her
Facilitate a two-way conversation, rather than giving a lecture. Children of all ages want to be understood, not preached to. They are also far more likely to take your advice on board if they have felt included in the conversation.

5. Request, don’t demand
Requests are best made in a simple, positive, one- or two-step process. Do not demand, ask kindly and with respect.

6. Treat your child as an equal
Communicate with your children at eye level, rather than from above. Take a seat together, or crouch down with young ones. This way the communication is both less threatening and more supportive. Going for a ride in the car together can work wonders!

7. Discuss change openly
If you are raising children who are growing up outside of their parents’ home culture(s) make sure you discuss each move with your child and prepare them for it.

It’s also crucial to remind your teen that friendship and love are never gone; their loved ones from a previous country or school are always there. Your teen can still communicate via email, Skype, telephone. Encourage him/her to take advantage of online technology.

.. and never forget... you lead by example!

Lugano's English speaking facebook page

Just in case you hadn't heard... Lugano's English speaking community has an awesome Facebook page. Ask any question or seek any kind of advice and you'll receive a stream of answers. Its members are truly passionate about sharing information with newcomers and "oldies".

Don't hesitate to organise a "blind date" with the IWCL Evening group or ask them where the coolest yoga session might be on a Thursday morning. Every day Lugano's Expat group will recommend fun and interesting things to do or places to visit. Should you be looking for info about parking outside of Malpensa Easyjet terminal or wondering where you can buy a 5kg jar of Nutella, they will have the answer.

On the ENGLISH SPEAKING IN LUGANO SWITZERLAND you'll find appartements to rent, recommendations for cleaning ladies and even new friends should you be inclined to party.

Maybe you have a hobby and are looking for clubs or others to join you, Lugano's English speaking community will find a solution.

So, if you are new to the area or just have a question on your mind, don't hesitate to post on Lugano's English speaking Facebook page... you'll be surprised at how happy they are to welcome you and how forthcoming to share their knowledge.

A big THANK YOU goes to Caroline Garrod who initiated this Facebook page with the aim to help by offering information as to what's going on in and around the area, where to buy things, services offered or needed, or advice such as doctors, dentists, kids clubs, sight seeing, etc.

Please join us and become part of the fun: https://www.facebook.com/groups/expatlugano/

A book to help your kids with the move

For those of you who are moving ... yes, t'is the time of season again ... I have come across a lovely book about global "nomad" families called B at Home by Valerie Besanceney. It is a story that will help children and their parents (and stuffed animals!) with any transition or move.

Emma is only ten years old, but has already moved twice. Now, her parents are telling her the family is moving again. She's furious, sad, nervous, and a little excited, all at the same time. Unsure of how to tackle these conflicting emotions, she turns to B, her faithful teddy bear. While trying to come to terms with the challenges of another move, what Emma really wants is just to 'be at home'. As the journeys of Emma and B unfold, home changes once again, but home also begins to take on a new meaning that Emma can take with her wherever she goes. 

Buona lettura!

America Day at Franklin University

Listen up Americans in and around Lugano: you might be interested in the upcoming AMERICA DAY held at Franklin University on May 25th. Starting at 17:30, the U. S. Embassy invites you to a Q & A meeting session where the Honorable Suzan G. LeVine, US. Ambassador to Switzerland, will answer questions, followed by Voter Registration and Consular services from 19:00-20:00. A unique opportunity!

You can have documents notarized, passports renewed, birth applications processed etc. No appointments necessary and visitors will be seen on a first come-first served basis. Fees for consular services will be payable in cash only.

Venue: America Day
Where: Franklin University Switzerland, Via Ponte Tresa 29, 6930 Sorengo
Date: Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Int'l School of Ticino Open Days

The International School of Ticino (IST) opened in September 2014 in its new state-of-the-art premises in Lamone. The school aims to provide international and local families with a truly international education. To foster a better understanding of the school’s philosophy and learning environment, both current and prospective members of the school community are invited to attend their Open Days.

During the next Open Days on Thursday 12th May 2016, from 9:00am to 3:00pm IST classrooms are open to prospective parents to visit the school, observe part of a lesson delivered by their dynamic mother-tongue teachers and talk to the staff. Prospective parents can either book a specific time to visit or come in at any time during the Open Day hours.

Don't hesitate to contact them directly if you would like to schedule a visit on a different day. Every day is Open Day at IST!

Venue: International School Ticino Open Day

Where: Via Girella 4, 6814 Lamine

When: Thursday, May 12th, 2016

Time: 9:00 to 15:00

Contact the school office at 0919710344 or email info@isticino.com for more information.

What is Culture shock?

Culture shock has been studied and defined by many different people over the years and it affects everyone differently.

Basically Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, or set of attitudes.

There is also reverse culture shock. This is when an individual has successfully adjusted to the new social or cultural group, and then returns to his or her home country, or original social or cultural group.  This can be due to over-idealizing one’s home country or culture, or expecting that nothing has changed while they were away, when it actually has.

To better understand the signs and symptoms of culture shock, one must understand the four basic stages:

Honeymoon Period:
This is when you first arrive in the new location, and everything is new and exciting.
Crisis Period:
This is when your feelings of disillusionment culminate, and you begin to cope.
Recovery:
This is when you gradually adapt, and learn to behave like the local culture/social group.
Adjustment:
Function effectively, and perform day to day tasks secondhand

The signs and symptoms of culture shock are: 
- homesickness
- stereotyping or feelings of hostility towards hosts
- excessive boredom
- feelings of isolation
- boredom
- withdrawal

The fact of the matter is that once you know about culture shock, you can also learn how to prevent culture shock. Here are five tips:

1. Learn about your new location first, be open-minded and willing to learn!

2. Maintain a positive sense of humour. The ability to laugh at your mistakes, and smile at people makes a world of difference in the eyes of your hosts, no matter which part of the world.

3. Know before you leave that moving or traveling somewhere different is challenging, and that it is normal to go through an adjustment period.

4. Do not withdraw. Look for positive people, travel around, take part in cultural and/or school events.

5. Take a part of home with you. Food, photos and music all help when going through a rough spot. Stay connected and keep in touch with family and friends through Skype, WhatsApp, and FaceTime.

Last but not least my personal advice would be to start a journal (or a blog) of the new things you come across every day and your reactions to your new home. Writing things down will help you keep them in perspective, and are funny to look back on!

One more tip: Never confuse your ability to speak the new language with your intelligence; it is easy to feel stupid and get down on yourself, but there is no reason to. It takes everyone some time to adjust and become comfortable with a new language.

And remember: YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

A little thing called culture shock

When we go into culture shock, we are in free fall. Having exited from our comfort zone, we are stripped straight down to our core. Oftentimes we lose confidence in our ability to meet the most basic needs: What do I eat? Where do I sleep?  Who do I connect with? Where do I belong? Will I be safe?

Cognitive dissonance is a big part of the problem. Our ideas and the reality we find sur place don’t match—which can feel threatening.

But leaving our comfort zone also propels us into a moment of accelerated growth. As we slowly begin to make sense of all the new sights, sounds, smells, tastes, textures—and interactions with others—we expand our minds to incorporate new perspectives. There is potential for us to learn compassion, kindness and gratitude. The experience may feel raw—but it can also be exhilarating.

5 tools for handling the culture shock:

1. Consider the benefits:
The term “culture shock” often evokes negative connotations. But let’s turn that on its head and pretend for a moment we don’t need a toolbox. Simply ask yourself:

How have challenging cultural transitions positively impacted my life?

2. Use food as an icebreaker:
Food is a great way to learn about a new country and connect with people over a shared need. Say, how about getting out those cooking tools? :)

3. Communicate:
“Please”, “Thank you”, and a smile go a long way in someone else’s culture. Learn some basic phrases in the new language before you take off. For sure, a small phrase book, pocket dictionary or app ought to be in your toolbox. While you won’t end up having an in-depth conversation about political or social issues right away, at least you’ve made a start. Also, given that most communication is nonverbal, don’t be afraid to use your hands and feet—always fun no matter how clumsy it might feel! Find out about body language. What’s the polite way to hail a cab? Beckon someone to come over? Is it rude or polite to look someone directly in the eyes? Observe.

4. Slow down:
Treat the fact that you are entering a new culture as an opportunity to slow down and take it easy. Take time to adapt and go of any preconceptions. Think of this tool as a pressure valve: open it up and let go all of that stress and pressure out. Don’t force yourself to visit as many sights as you can—even if you feel obliged to do so. The point is to enjoy yourself, isn’t it? Allow yourself time to fully experience this transition.

5. Practice the art of being grateful:
Seeing life from a different perspective is a wonderful way to learn to appreciate what we have been given, on the road as well as in the home we’ve left behind. Here are some of the things you might be grateful for:
• hot water
• clean water
• access to fresh food
• conversations you have with people you meet along the way
• kindness of strangers
• friends you make for life
• lessons you learn
• the privilege of having the opportunity to experience all this in the first place

So, use the tools you have at hand to open your mind to the good things that surround you.

How was school today?

When I ask my kids "How was school today?" The answer is monosyllable: "good" or "interesting" are usually the words used to keep me happy but this does not tell me a lot.

I want to KNOW!

So here is a list of more engaging questions to ask about school. They aren’t perfect but they allow for conversation openers and some might lead to interesting dialogues OR hilarious answers. I definitely catch a few insights into how my kids think and feel about their time at school.

These questions are designed to give kids a non-threatening way to express their thoughts and open the door for you to have a discussion to ask why, potentially uncovering issues you didn’t know about before. The answers you get can be really surprising.

Sometimes we just need to figure out the right kind of questions to ask our children. Remember, some questions may work better than others for your kids .

1.  What was the best thing that happened at school today?  (What was the worst thing that happened at school today?)

2.  Tell me something that made you laugh today?

3.  If you could choose who would you like to sit by in class?  (Who would you NOT want to sit by in class?  Why?)

4.  Where is the coolest place at the school?

5.  Tell me a weird word that you heard today.  (Or something weird that someone said.)

6.  If I called your teacher tonight what would she tell me about you?

7.  How did you help somebody today?

8.  How did somebody help you today?

9.  Tell me one thing that you learned today.

10.  When were you the happiest today?

11.  When were you bored today?

12.  If an alien spaceship came to your class and beamed up someone who would you want them to take?

13.  Who would you like to play with at recess that you’ve never played with before?

14.  Tell me something good that happened today.

15.  What word did your teacher say most today?

16.  What do you think you should do/learn more of at school?

17.  What do you think you should do/learn less of at school?

18.  Who in your class do you think you could be nicer to?

19.  Where do you play the most at recess?

20.  Who is the funniest person in your class?  Why is he/she so funny?

21.  What was your favorite part of lunch?

22.  If you got to be the teacher tomorrow what would you do?

23.  Is there anyone in your class that needs a time out?

24.  If you could switch seats with anyone in the class who would you trade with?  Why?

25.  Tell me about three different times you used your pencil today at school.

Manifesto of a DOER

The idea is a simple one. That people who Do things, can inspire the rest of us to go and Do things too. So each year, the DO Lectures invite a set of people to come and tell them what they Do.

In 2008, The DO Lectures was born, in an inexplicable cross section between a festival and a conference. There were no name badges, no bad coffee and impersonal, draughty lecture halls. Instead, an intimate number of speakers and attendees gathered under canvas on the west coast of Wales and shared the whole three day experience as a community. They ate together, camped together, shared a beer around a fire as the sun went down together.

Every year since, DO has stuck to the same formula: ideas + energy = change.

Workshop: Turning the Gears of Confidence

Confidence is a skill.

Feeling inspired? Interested in a workshop? Maria-José Horstkamp, Ambassador of InterNations, offers a workshop with specific, concrete steps to build self confidence and raise self-esteem.

Just visualize entering 2016 in the right mindset, empowered to reach your potential and make powerful positive changes in your life. No more hiding, no more insecurities, no more excuses.

Well, this is your opportunity. Join Maria-José for an interesting evening at the Franklin University with the following agenda:

- The Foundation of Confidence
- Mindset
- Group Activities
- Light refreshment

Venue: Turning the gears of Confidence workshop
Place: Franklin University Switzerland, Via Ponte Tresa 29, Sorengo
Date: Monday, January 25, 2016
Time: 6:45 PM to 9:00 PM
Price: CHF 35.-
Price includes Course, material + light refreshments

Please confirm attendance with Maria-José Horstkamp by e-mailing: kyla_deiss@hotmail.com.

IGNITE YOUR FEMALE POWER (Women only seminar)

Join the IWCL Evening group for a talk with American Guest Speaker Erin Marie Godin!

Erin is a leadership and motivational coach who has the ambition to inspire greatness in your life, relationships and business. She is a certified member of the John Maxwell team and will help you cultivate and maintain success through her energetic influence!

She will be covering topics such as:
1. Embracing change and honoring the struggle/progress cycle in life.
2. Tapping into your bravery when faced with “quantum leap” decisions, either big opportunities or situations where you need to choose – stay or leave.
3. Infusing HOPE for a brighter future so women feel empowered and confident in the path they chose. Her mission is to motivate women to intentionally find their strength before a tragedy forces it out of them.

Venue: WOMEN ONLY SEMINAR: IGNITE YOUR FEMALE POWER
Where: Franklin University, Kalestch Campus, Classroom 1 Via Ponte Tresa 29, 6924 Sorengo
When: Monday, November 30, 2015
Time: 7:00pm - 9:00pm            
The seminar is free!

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!
Please write to IWCL Evening Group (iwcleveninggroup@gmail.com) if you wish to join.

US Consular Outreach in Lugano

Guess who is coming to town? The American Consular Officer to Switzerland J. Barrett Travis and his consular assistant from the U.S. Embassy in Bern. They will be here to offer a wide range of consular services to the American community. This is a unique opportunity to have documents notarized, passport applications signed, and applications processed for “Consular Reports of Birth Abroad.” Fees for consular services are payable in cash only (currency: Swiss francs).

After the main consular event, there will be time allocated for Questions and Answers. Do take the chance to engage in an active Q&A session and have all those pending questions addressed in person!

Venue: US Consular Outreach in Lugano
Where: THE PALMER CENTER, TASIS, Via Collina d’ Oro, 6926 Montagnola
Date: Friday, September 25, 2015
Time: 16:30 – 19:30
16:30 – 17:00 Welcome and introductory speech by Consul J. Barrett Travis
17:00 – 19:00 Consular services – no appointments are necessary, visitors will be handled
19:00 Q&A

Go beyond your Expat comfort zone

With any walk of life, everyday routines sometimes get a bit too comfortable.  Although nobody really likes to admit it, people can find themselves stuck in a bit of a rut.  This applies to expats as well.  Feeling comfortable is great, but being too settled could stop you from making the most of your expat adventure.

It’s important to keep things fresh to continue making the most out of your expat experience.  If you can relate to some of these expat-in-a-rut symptoms, here are some suggestions to keep things interesting!

Symptom: Expat complacency
Did you move with a long list of things you wanted to tick off – be that sightseeing, trying particular street foods, or visiting galleries or museums, but find you haven’t done that much?  Unlike visiting somewhere on holiday, being an expat means there is no time limit on your stay, and it’s easy to forget about the typical ‘tourist’ activities you initially wanted to do.

Expat remedy: Be a tourist once a week – pretend you only have a week left in your host country, and tick off that bucket list!

Symptom: Unvaried expat diet
Indulging in local cuisine is by far one of the greatest perks of expat life, and by now you will probably have expert knowledge of where to get the best street food, the best coffee and other local delicacies. But inevitably, this also means that expats can end up sticking to the same old favourite dish.

Expat remedy: Take a trip to some local food markets, buy some ingredients you haven’t used before!  Host a dinner party for new friends, and show case your culinary skills.

Symptom:  Over-settled expats
Getting to know your local area is great and it’s fantastic to feel like you are really ‘at home’ somewhere new.  However, don’t forget that a short drive, train or bus journey away, there are new places ripe for exploration!

Expat remedy: If you haven’t left your local area for a while, reserve one weekend a month for a road trip to get to know your neighbouring cities or villages.

Symptom: Unadventurous expats
The prospect of becoming an expat is both exciting and daunting at the same time, and often comes with visions of an adventure-filled future.  However, after being settled in a place for a while, the element of adventure can start to dwindle.

Expat remedy: To reinstate that feeling of excitement, how about becoming an adrenaline junkie for the day? Do something that scares you, be that finding some adventure sports facilities in your local area, or joining up to a new club by yourself.

Symptom: In an expat bubble
If you’ve made a good circle of friends since moving, that’s fantastic, and an important aspect of feeling settled.  But this isn’t to say you should try and stop making new friends.

Expat remedy: Set yourself a target of speaking to one new person every week – be that another expat, or a local.  You’ll be surprised how quickly you pick up hints and tips about local life where you are, and perhaps some new friends as well.

So, go ahead and step out of your comfort zone! It's not always easy but it's worth it.

Changing your attitude when you cannot change the situation

You have learnt that as an expat, sometimes changing your physical circumstances isn't possible, at least not right away.

Changing your perception, belief or opinion of the situation will help you change your attitude.

The Greek philosopher Epictetus said it beautifully more than 2,000 years ago: "People are disturbed, not by things that happen to them, but by the principles and opinions which they form concerning those things. When we are hindered, or disturbed, or grieved, let us never attribute it to others, but to ourselves; that is, to our own principles and opinions."

Here are five easy ways to start changing your perception:

1. Admit to yourself that you're not happy.
You can't change anything if you aren't aware that something needs to be changed. Stop the cycle of wishing things were different and take control of your thoughts and reactions to events and people.

2. Realize optimism is a choice.
You are not born with a positive or negative attitude. It is something you become through your perspective of experiences. Very few situations are completely bad. Always try to come up with three to five positives of any challenging situation and write them down so you can remember them.

3. Use positive words.
Use statements like, "I am hopeful," or, "We will find a resolution," throughout the day. The words you use when you talk have a major impact on your attitude and emotional outlook.

4. Hang out with friends who have a happy vibe.
Try surrounding yourself with friends that exude positive energy. Pay attention to the words they use when they talk to you about their day. You will be amazed how simple it is to ascertain if they are a positive or negative influence.

5. Say a daily affirmation.
Find a quote that is meaningful to you and say it aloud every morning. "Something great is going to happen today," sends your energy in an expectant and positive direction. I know it sounds a bit "Zen" and somewhat mystical, but it is actually a very simple and effective method for retraining your subconscious mind — and advocated by both ancient and scientific research.

So the next time you are faced with a challenging situation, remember these tips for molding your perception — and improving your attitude. You may not be able to change it, but you can certainly choose your mental and physical response to it. As time passes, you will notice a real shift in your attitude, and so will your friends and family!

Wondering about Tax Obligations of American Citizens?

Tax laws and banking regulations are constantly changing for Americans living abroad. Come hear about Foreign Tax Credits, FBAR, FATCA, deadlines, expatriation and more. The presentation will cover topics related to all persons filing taxes in the USA. There will be ample time for questions. Presented by Jimmy Sexton, LL.M. of Esquire Group, LLC, an international tax advisory firm he co-founded in 2005. Hosted by AWOT and Franklin University Switzerland, the presentation will be free and open to the public.

Venue: Tax Obligations of American Citizens and Permanent Residents Abroad
Where: Franklin University Switzerland Auditorium, Via Ponte Teresa 29, 6924 Sorengo
Location: Nielsen Auditorium
Date: Thursday, March 5, 2015
Time: 20:00 - 22:00
Cost: Free
Contact: Leslie Guggiari via e-mail at: lguggiari@fus.edu

Like a Girl

Tell me what it looks like to run like a girl? Which images are going through your mind?

Using "LikeAGirl" as an insult is a hard knock against any adolescent girl. And since the rest of puberty's really no picnic either, it's easy to see what a huge impact it can have on a girl's self-confidence.

Every once in a while I come across a video that makes me smile and think at the same time. This clip is one of them. Please ignore the multinational brand (who is in no way sponsoring my blog) and focus on the message.

After having watched this message I tried the exercise with my daughter. Let's just say, we had to repeat it!