“Empowering people means giving up power so that others may take it.” (Michael Bungay Stonier) This applies to the board room, the classroom, the family room. How much do you do for your children, or for anyone else in your life? If it feels like too much, listen to that feeling. We don’t do our kids any favors by taking away obstacles or overindulging. This is actually disempowering. We don’t give them a chance to think for themselves and to be creative problem-solvers. So when we step back, don’t get involved, maybe ask a few curious questions to get the thought process going, we actually give power to them. You may not realize it, but doing too much for others is a way to control and to make yourself feel better. And it does not help them. Give up your power so your children can become empowered, strong and resilient. This is your highest calling as a parent. P.S. – Learn to bring out the best in your teen in my private FB community, Connected Moms and Teens.
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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.