Welcome to this engaging interview with Ryan Norris, the insightful author behind 12 Positive “F” Words for Parents. In this discussion, we delve into the nuanced world of parenting as Ryan shares his wisdom and expertise on nurturing an authentic parental identity. The essence of his book encapsulates a journey towards self-discovery and stronger family bonds, shedding light on the crucial components that contribute to a fulfilling and purposeful life for both parents and their children. Join us as we unravel the empowering messages Ryan has to offer, inviting all parents to embark on a transformative adventure in the realm of parenthood.
Please introduce yourself and tell me about what you do.
My name is Ryan Norris. I’m Jesus follower, Combat Veteran (Iraq and Afghanistan), husband, and father of three. I have my Bachelor of Arts Summa Cum Laude of Psychology. I’m currently obtaining my master’s in social work. In addition to my studies, I provide life coaching services to individuals and families. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, taking care of our new property, and watching great movies.
Tell me more about your journey as an author, including the writing processes?
My journey as an author was not expected. After some time in prayer, I was given the idea to write a book. When I sat down, the message flowed like I have never experienced before. In less than 3 weeks the book was completely written. Having never written a book, I learned how intense the editing process really is. After about 18 months of editing, the book was completed and published.
Any message for our readers?
This book is not meant to just read. It’s meant to discuss and complete. This workbook guides parents and teaches them how to communicate and ask the questions that are not typically asked inside of the family. This manual helps parents understand how communication, ideas, and goals can be manifested physically. This book will help the family unit grow stronger, more united, communicate honestly, and transparently.
What are some of your favorite quotes from your book?
“A child’s identity must be respected, recognized, and nurtured.”
“Taking time alone is so important as a parent.”
“A leader with no self-discipline or self-control is no leader at all.”
“Be careful, as too much grace and no accountability or consequences could lead your child to take advantage of you.”
“All that’s needed for evil to triumph is for good men to sit around and do nothing.” -John Stuart Mill (1867)
“There is no better time than now to start your debt-free journey.”
“Stop letting your past define who you are and start laying the foundation of success for your children.”
“Stop letting other people define what type of parent you are and start setting boundaries earlier in life with your children.”
Tell us a story that you want to highlight.
The story I want to highlight is that our past of how our parents raised us does not have to be our life. We can parent different, better, and more effectively than our parents did. Setting the proper foundation for our children will not only help them but will also change the culture of our world.
What’s one exciting thing about your book you want the whole world to know?
Appreciation of self and understanding personal identity does not come from our social surroundings. Change is possible, regardless of your upbringing or your current situation.
Briefly describe a few key points from your book that you’d like included in your press release.
This book offers the practical tools to approach childrearing from a foundational perspective. Ryan and his wife Kasia share the dream of coaching parents to better understand their true potential as individuals and parents. The only way to truly be a fantastic parent is to be free in who we are as individuals. When we can accept ourselves we can begin to teach others how to accept themselves. When we teach our children to be who they are created to be real freedom can be achieved. Not freedom from tyranny but freedom intellectually. When we are free in our mind to be ourselves we produce the physical manifestation of our mental state to behave in a manner that benefits our culture.
How has your background influenced you to write this book?
Unfortunately, I did not have a positive father figure in my life. From a very young age, I knew I wanted to be the complete opposite of my father. Learning how to be disciplined and take initiative from the military without a positive father figure, because of this, I was driven to be the best father to my kids. I did everything that I could in seeking my faith to become a father that would encourage, support, and show my kids what a Godly father is like. My background was a very big part of why I wrote this book. I believe that change in behavior is possible when we choose to dedicate and stay committed to the change. This book provides the practical tools a parent can use to become the authentic and confident parent their child needs.
What about your book makes you the most excited?
Changing our culture to show more love, be more encouraging, dealing with reality instead of running from it. Learning not to sweep things under the carpet but confront them in a healthy and productive manner. That the book can help build healthy families in this broken world.
What will a parent or caregiver learn from reading your book?
Positive parenting, how to discipline children, learning to communicate with your kids, how to teach and raise children, as well as Christian parenting.
