What Mask Are You Wearing .... for Halloween?

Kim: Hold me.

Edward: I can't.

Edward was indeed at a disadvantage in the holding department. This unfinished project of a mad scientist was left with sharp scissors as hands. Kim's mother (the local Avon lady) discovered him when she went to call on the creepy mansion where Edward lived. Knowing he was all alone, she invited him to live with her family and Edward and Kim (her daughter) became very fond of one another.

Edward Scissorhands, 1990

This is one of my favorite films, and especially relevant at this time of year. Not too scary, not too bloody, and it's got a moral compass worth thinking about. In this season of ghosts and goblins, it's helpful to think about what ghosts we carry around inside of us. How much power do they have over our every day happiness and contentment? Are they still going to be haunting us when next Halloween comes around?

Fear is a great theme on Halloween - but while it's fine for one day - there's the rest of the year to contend with. To let fear creep in, maybe in part because of some ghost of our past, is really an insult to our happiness. Sometimes it's good to put on a mask and pretend that you look different than they feel. Of course that mask should be a happy face - and while it may not be exactly as you feel, if you act as if, the feelings just might catch up. Scary, sour, bored faces really affect those around us. So if that's the "mask" you've got on, realize that might turn your loved ones into a frowning unhappy face too!

While Edward truly couldn't hold Kim, if there's anything you feel you can't do, I can help you look at the possibility of what might be holding you back. Coaching is a great tool to help examine your goals, dreams, and unfulfilled longings.

Cool Tip: Do a swap with your kid for all their Halloween Candy. I told my kid that he could switch his candy for a toy at the local toy store (with their help!) ... it worked and was worth not having a month of sugar highs !!