Are You A Cool Whip Mom (or Dad)?
Posted on 13. Aug, 2007 by admin in Inspiration
I’m trying very hard to refine my skills as a coach by implementing "The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz. One of the agreements to have with youself, to release stress and increase wellness, is to not take anything personally. This one agrerement alone can alleviate the majority of one’s suffering, if mastered. As a passionate, fiesty and opinionated person, I find this one tough. But I am working on it! This blog is a result of my shortcomings in this area. A radio commercial that I heard yesterday amused yet aroused irritation in me.I’m taking it personally….
First, let me say that as a former advertising/marketing executive, that the folks at Cool Whip’s advertising agency are really doing their job well. Here I am continuing to market for them, as I not only recall the commercial, but absolutely remember what they are advertising. This is the goal. Job well done! Plus, I love fat free cool whip. Truly, a divine invention.
However, as a coach who helps overwhelmed, stressed out, and stuck clients, I observe how powerful media messages can be on our unrealistic expectations for ourselves. Women, in particular, are killing themsleves in an effort to make a living, create a Martha Stewart home, love their families, volunteer, AND look like a million bucks doing it. I spend a lot of time helping clients unravel unrealistic expectations and reclaim their lives. I’m going to start calling this the "Cool Whip Mom" phenomenon.
The commercial in question depicts a cooking contest between three moms, creating elaborate desserts and activities for their families. For example, mom #2 created a cool whip connect the dots game with blueberries and cool whip. All of this was tongue and cheek, but the undertone was that "good moms" (no mention of dads) use cool whip and spend their time creating elaborate desserts and even GAMES out of their food. I can hear a collective groan from across the country.
Now, there is absolutely nothing WRONG with cooking elaborate desserts, if you love to do that. I love eating them. However, it is important that we are aware of the subtle messages that we are receiving on a daily basis, encouraging us to be "superwomen." Of course, the real trick is to be aware, and NOT TAKE IT PERSONALLY. Brush off the messages and move on things that uplift you and those you love. I think that I’ll go walking. (Anything but eat more cool whip. HA!)
Susan
