When I was 17, my mom brought home a book: The Princess Bitchface Syndrome: Surviving Adolescent Girls.

I was outraged. Everything I was going through—real, confusing, painful, normal—reduced to a “syndrome?”

I was furious, and in true teenage form, I made sure Mom knew it. So she said: “Well Lex, why don’t you do something about it?”

I spent the next 7 years writing a book of my own: Dealing with Mother: A Survival Guide for Teenage Girls.

It was filled with:

I had it reviewed by therapists and educators. Their verdict?

Please publish this asap. Kids need it.

But when I came down to it, I couldn't publish it. It felt too vulnerable—too risky for my relationship with Mom.

It did clarify three things for me:

By this time, I had a thriving career in adult learning focused on behavior change and high-impact habits. So...

I became a counselor and specialized in trauma and adolescent development.

Evidence-based, story-driven programs to help adolescents:

And the mindset that they have the power to live BIG lives, no matter what.

Thanks for being here. I’m so glad you’re part of this community.

Lex

Live Big Program Guide