This weekend, because of the snowstorm, I found myself reflecting on something. I come from Costa Rica, where snow was never part of daily life. I was never a fan of winter, but I always loved short trips to experience it. A year and a half ago, I left behind comfort and familiarity because a dream of mine couldn’t wait any longer. This weekend was my first real experience with a serious weather alert, and I also got the flu, which made it even more challenging. It wasn’t easy, but it reminded me how much discomfort changes us, not just physically, but mentally. I’ve seen many people leave their comfort zones in search of better opportunities. In my case, what drives me is the desire to grow, to become better, and to make a positive impact. Being in New York constantly challenges my mindset, and that friction, as uncomfortable as it is, has been one of my greatest teachers. Having studied psychology and now working closely with young people and families, I see how powerful it is when kids are exposed to healthy challenges. Not pressure, but experiences that stretch them, build resilience, and help them trust themselves. Growth rarely happens in perfect conditions. It happens when we step into uncertainty, adapt, and keep moving forward. It made me think about how important it is for young people to see examples of courage, effort, and intentional living. What kinds of challenges do you feel are helping your child grow the most right now?

Comfort teaches less than challenge. Ease teaches less than difficulty. When teens are allowed to face real challenges, even when there’s a risk of failure, they learn faster, build resilience, and discover what they’re truly capable of. Failure doesn’t make them weak. Staying comfortable does. Growth happens when they have space to try, to struggle, and to try again, supported but not overprotected. It’s worth asking: What real challenges is your child facing right now that are helping them grow and trust themselves more?

Many teens feel behind before they’ve even had the chance to begin. Lost, unsure, questioning whether they’re on the “right” path. That uncertainty isn’t a flaw. It’s part of learning who they are, not who they’re supposed to be. Not every path is linear. Not every compass points north. Progress often looks messy before it looks clear. Where do you see your child comparing their journey to others instead of trusting their own pace?

Your kids aren’t listening to what you say. They’re watching what you do. If you want them to be confident, they need to see you take care of your body. If you want them to build healthy relationships, they need to see you maintain yours. Confidence is borrowed before it’s built. Kids repeat what they observe, not what they’re told. So here’s the real question: What’s one upgrade you can make in your own life that you’d want your kids to inherit?

I realized one of the reasons I love mentoring the younger generation is that I can see some of their struggles in what my journey has been. A 15 year old I'm working with was about to quit just because we can't meet in person. One of his goals is acting. I told him the truth about the business which is everything is virtual. Auditions, most classes with casting directors, most auditions for agencies. I don't like it either but I have to adapt. Had I not adapted I would've never met this amazing group of people who are shooting to make a difference, I would've closed so many doors in the movie industry and mentoring others would be more limiting since I would have to physically be there. The ones who adapt accomplish the most. I hope I was able to shine a light on him. I know he's capable of living his dream and I hope this can inspire someone who had to hear this. What's the biggest challenge for you in terms of adapting?