#1254 - The Subtle Art of Slowing Down (or Why Doing Less Can Bring You Closer)

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

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17d ago 11:18

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Sometimes, the best thing we can do for our family… is slow down. In this reflective I’ll Do Better Tomorrow episode, Justin and Kylie Coulson share the power of pausing, being present, and choosing connection over control. From Sunday night beach walks to heartfelt conversations with teenage daughters, this episode is a gentle reminder that the simple moments matter most.

KEY POINTS:

Presence > Productivity. Slowing down, ditching the schedule, and being together—like a spontaneous walk after dinner—can be the reset your family needs.
Connection is the goal. Whether you're navigating tough teen years or sharing a sunset, strong relationships grow from time, conversation, and attention.
Repair matters more than perfection. Every parent will make mistakes. What counts is how we acknowledge, repair, and grow through them.
Children are wired to connect. They want close relationships with us. Our job is to not let ego or defensiveness get in the way.
Grace + ownership = healing. When your child opens up about past hurt, resist defensiveness. Instead, acknowledge it, own it, and seek forgiveness.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE:

“Our children are biologically wired to connect with us. We’ve just got to make sure we don’t get in the way of that.”

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

The Parenting Revolution – Dr Justin Coulson’s latest book
Happy Families School Membership – For parent engagement and wellbeing resources

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS:

Plan nothing. Take one evening this week to leave the agenda behind. Go for a walk, sit together, be still.
Check in deeply. Ask one of your kids: “What’s been hard for you lately?” And listen—fully.
Apologise when needed. If your child opens up about hurt or resentment, resist the urge to defend. Acknowledge their truth and offer a sincere, humble “I’m sorry.”
Model forgiveness and grace. Let your children see that love doesn’t require perfection—just connection and accountability.

Strengthen the bond. Say “yes” to spontaneous togetherness. It might become a memory your child cherishes forever.

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