How do you communicate in your family?

• Maybe you listen completely and then say your peace at the end.
• Maybe you always follow-up with some word or sentence.
• Maybe you end it with, “Don’t say another word.”
• Maybe you shout loudly one or two words to emphasize one point.
• Maybe it’s just a grunt.
• Maybe you don’t say anything at all.

In a world where the phone is attached at birth,  we are so disconnected and hurting for a greater bond; a relationship where one feels safe, heard, and loved.

Yet that’s not what you get when everyone is wanting the last word.

As parents, setting the boundaries of who has what authority in the home is important. But there’s so much to consider.

• Who the conversation/discussion is with.
• The severity of the situation/circumstance.
• Is it a repeat offense?
• Or is it a matter of just being heard?

One thing you want to be cautious of is shutting down your children to the point that they do not feel like they have a voice.

The word “balance” is thrown around so much today. But in this scenerio, balance is key!

You have to juggle authority with ears that hear and a heart that loves.

And this is not easy! So what can you do to find the balance and not always be the one who has to have the last word?

The K.I.S.S. ~ Know you’re right!

You heard it here first! You are right!!!!

Now you don’t have to be concerned about winning by speaking the last word. You’re already right!

So now that you’re smiling, let’s breakdown how you can support your child and still be right!

1. Listen to your child completely. Children want to be heard so they feel loved.
2. Express your concerns without unnecessary exclamations. This is one of the hardest things to do. But most of what we think is life-threatening, is so far from that the next morning. So keep your temper (emotions and energy) in check.
3. Be consistent! No matter what you do, be consistent. Set the boundaries appropriate for the situation and then stick to your guns. Don’t waver. Believe it or not, your child will appreciate this in the long run. It might be painful for you at the time.

At this point, you should feel a little bit of relief knowing you’re right. Be the compassionate, consistent parent who loves deeper and knows the secret that you are right!

“Be present. Be incredible. Be YOU!!!”