Ever try getting a teen to talk about their feelings? Good luck with that!
They have to feel them and let them out in order to clear out space in their mind and take a next step.
Feelings show up in our thoughts and body. They have so much to tell us about ourselves if we’d just listen to them. Teens may believe that their feelings are fatal, set them apart and make them weird.
This is where you come in. If you typically go into fix-it mode, micromanaging or critiquing, stop!
What will help your teen is to make emotions OK (whether you agree with them or not). They need you to listen and acknowledge that things are tough for them at that moment.
Build a bridge, not a wall. I know you can do this. Get tips and scripts in my free report, “5 Powerful Steps to Get Your Teen to Talk”. Sign up HERE.
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.