You're Not a Failure. Things Just Didn't Turn Out the Way You Planned by Fern Weis, Parent + Family Recovery Coach

Do you ever see yourself as a failure? If we must use this word, let's give it new meaning. What about a "learning experience" or an "opportunity to grow?"

You're not a failure. Things just didn't turn out the way you planned.

Whether it's outside events or inner turmoil and attitudes, making mistakes is part of growing and growing up.

Our kids could really benefit from a change in language and attitude from us. The word 'failure' has such negative, critical energy attached to it. It demoralizes and crushes the spirit.

I don't see this as coddling. I see it as focusing on the future and what they can do differently.

That's the goal, isn't it? To learn, move, and get closer to that desired outcome.

If you have any hesitation about changing your approach, I encourage you to remember a time when someone said or implied that you were a failure. How did you feel after that and what did you do?  Or did you do nothing?

Think about it. Then do something about it.

P.S. There’s more where that came from. Let Leashes, Lessons, and Love: What Dogs Teach Us About Raising Our Kids and Ourselves be your new parenting companion and the most-read book on your night stand. Short, inspiring stories from my dogs and children, and the unexpected similarities between parenting them all. *And coaching tips and scripts, too!

Order your copy of LLL here:  https://fernweisbook.com/book

Fern Weis | Parent + Family Recovery Coach

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.