shifting focus

I tend to be a glass half empty kind of gal. I know, you're shocked! But it's true and it has always been that way. I'm not sure if it is a result of being a perfectionist or if it comes from being logical. Either way, I have a tendency to look at a situation and see the problems first. In some cases it can actually be a good thing. I can sit down and talk through a situation with someone and help them see places where they might need to rethink something. I can troubleshoot pretty well.
But, more often than not, it means that I tend to see life's faults before I see its blessings. And it seeps into my parenting. That is why tomorrow during nap time, when I'm sure that I won't be interrupted, I am going to finally sit down and make those good behavior charts for my boys. They have been on my "to do" list for months and I just never seem to get around to them. But I realized tonight that I tend to focus more on the behaviors that I want to stop than on the ones that I want to see more of. It can be hard to provide structure and rules for your kids but also keep life fun and enjoyable. I believe in the structure and the rules. I believe that they need to be accountable for their choices and their attitudes. But I also believe that my kids have good hearts and a desire to do what is right. Maybe they just need a little motivation to help them on their way. And maybe I need motivation to shift my focus to the good. It's either that or putting in a few calls to daycare centers.