Do your teen's behaviors drive you over the edge? Difficult behaviors mean your child is struggling with something, not necessarily trying to give you a hard time. They don't wake up in the morning and think, "How can I make Mom miserable today?" There's an underlying feeling: sadness, frustration, rage, fatigue, disappointment. You know, those emotions that you feel, too. Can you find the tiniest bit of understanding, even compassion? When you do, you understand that their behavior is all about them, not about you. (Hmm, I think I've said that a few times before...)
So when your teen is making you nuts, stop and listen. And then listen more. They need to be heard first. Change comes later.
For more support and a community of moms of adolescents, click HERE to join my private FB group, Connected Moms and Teens.
Fern Weis is a certified life coach who learned that caring and good intentions are not enough in parenting. In fact, they are often the problem! Fern supports parents of teens and young adults who are going through difficult situations, including addiction recovery. She helps parents release guilt, end enabling and confidently prepare their children to thrive through life's challenges. Her articles are featured in Thrive Global, Medium, Motherly, The Teen Mentor, and Bergen County Moms.
Learn more about coaching and classes at www.fernweis.com. And then download your free guide, "Five Powerful Steps to Get Your Teen to Talk." For information on Family Recovery programs, visit www.familyrecoverypartners.com.
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