The 5 Shadows and What Shines a Light in the Darkness

The 5 Shadows and What Shines A Light In The Darkness

 Speaker: Erin Nugent

This presentation explores some of the dynamics that can slowly, subtly creep into First Responder relationships and marriages. The ones that, when they aren't addressed, can become insidious and poison from the inside. The 5 Shadows are some of the most prominent factors that can negatively affect our relationships, but this training also shares targeted solutions to provide balance, sharing "What Shines A Light In The Darkness" those shadows cast.

With understanding and insight from "both sides of the coin", the experience of the First Responder and the Spouse, the core of this training is to remind both parties that they are on the same team. This isn't about fixing something that's broken, it's about strengthening the bond that already exists.

We will not only explore the impact sentiment override can have but educate participants on how to recognize its presence in their relationship. Also provide preventative tools and strategies to address some of the greatest hurdles a couple in this population may face. Proactive implementation and minor adjustments, along with honest conversations at the appropriate moment, lead to happier, more successful relationships for First Responders.

When our marriages and relationships already face additional stressors, it's important we learn to address challenges proactively and with purpose. When we fail to, they can devolve to a place where there's a deep divide and we don't know how to find our way back to each other.

KEY POINTS:

•  What the 5 Shadows are, elements that can creep into First Responder relationships and poison them from the inside

• The intentional actions to put in place to counteract any of the shadows you may be recognizing in your own relationship, what "shines a light in the darkness"

• Understanding sentiment override and how that can impact how we see and show up for each other

• Conversations to have and things to implement proactively in our relationships such as: how do you like to be supported, developing a code, pick your battles.