We parents of teens have to find our inspiration where we can find it... Morning glories are a great metaphor for parenting. All that beauty in the flowers and that big heart for the leaf... They are the most resilient plants as they grow in any soil and you do not have to worry about watering or fertilizing... They grow and grow and grow..... 40 feet high if you let them! They shout out their glory with flowers and their leaves. And that is what I want for you! I want you parents of teens to grow in any soil! Bounce when you hit those life bumps... Bounce is so much better that a THUD!
So, with that in mind, I have a great "Drive Through Life Tool" to share.
Next time your teen treats you to a behavior or action that requires some response or consequences from you, consider this tool before you respond and answer this question...
Which behavior "basket" or category does this fall into?:
1. Dangerous or Life Threatening
2. Character: Lying, stealing, integrity, honesty, cheating, etc.
3. Annoying: Age appropriate and harmless
Only after answering that question and placing the behavior in the appropriate category, can you give a response that is appropriate to the "crime". This should help you to respond and NOT react!
As always, sending my best,
Ciao,
Anne
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