Phyllis Green is one very extraordinary grand! Author of Fired at 50 – A Survivor’s Guide to Prosperity
“It’s not what happens to us, but how we deal with what happens to us.”
As Phyllis Green says in the introduction of her book, “Every person, from eight to eighty and beyond, experiences life-altering events that change them forever.”
Phyllis was a successful corporate executive in the media industry. Over 30 years she worked her way up and reached the pinnacle of her career. As she says in her book, she was operating at the top of her professional game in a competitive and exciting business in New York City. She had a personal secretary, ‘dandy’ expense account; corporate cars and more. When the company she worked for, ABC-TV, was acquired, she was part of a massive downsizing.
She went from the corporate suite to the New York State Office of Unemployment to become an
is one of inspiration and encouragement to all of us. I encourage you to get a copy of her book and delight in the journey this amazing women has shared.
Phyllis’ talents are not restricted to business.
She is a loving mom and “grandma” to four. When her first two granddaughters were born she thought it was unfashionable to be called grandma so she took the name Nana, but when her last two grandsons were born she wanted to be called Grandma. “I am a grandmother and wanted to be called grandma…I like it better!”
Phyllis says that each of her four grandchildren, Julianne, Devon, David and Ben (ages coming from Phyllis on Monday) are all different with different interests. She believes that it’s the grandparent’s role to adapt and evolve to them. She hears other grands say that their grandkids only communicate by text, and her advice; well then, be the best texter possible!
Phyllis’ Grandparenting Advice
- Stay engaged and involved in your grandchildren’s lives. They change dramatically; from the time they first walked to when they go off to college. Keep that connection!
- Find things you can bond over with your grandkids. Make the effort!
- Create memories based on experiences. If you maintain the closeness of the relationship, they will want to be with you.
- Remain continually aware of what interests them and share that experience; by email, texts, anyway possible.
How about your relationship with the adult children – The Parents?
Phyllis believes that the secret to managing a successful relationship with the parents of your grandchildren is to understand that they have their own lives. “My children are quite independent with busy lives. I’ve been careful to understand that and not take it personally. They have their own priorities and you may not always be a priority. Walk the line of awareness and understanding that your grown children are dealing with their own children. It’s a family dynamic that is always changing. Be involved and aware of what they are going through.”
My advice is that you’ll know you did a good job raising your kids if your children speak to you and are respectful. Just let them be and maintain your closeness.