Remember when your teen was tiny and you used to get so excited over the least little thing – the first step, the first word, how cute they looked sleeping with their little butts in the air, how adorable and snuggly they would be first thing in the morning?  

I’ll wager its been a while since you’ve felt that way about your teen.  Since your eyes have lit up when they walk into a room.  Teens can be challenging, to be sure, but underneath, they are still the same people as those cute toddlers we used to adore.  

Photo credit: Stock.xchg by Neon_Eddy

Your opinion matters.  Surprisingly, it probably matters more to them in the long run than anyone else’s in the world.  I know so many adults who would give anything in the world for a single word of recognition or approval from their parents.  Sadly, they probably will never receive it.  Is that what you want for your child?  

So often we become so hyper-aware of their faults that we overlook the awesome part.  Could you imagine if your boss was constantly after you to sit up straight, do your homework, clean your desk, tuck in your shirt, cut your hair, and bring your grades up?  That would suck, wouldn’t it?  (Some of us do have bosses like that, but at least we get paid for it)  

On the other hand, what if you had a boss who thought you were just terrific, praised you for your work every day, and recognized all your best qualities?  That’s the kind of boss you really want to work your heart out for, because that level of appreciation just makes you want to please them just that much more.  I know, because I’ve had both types of bosses and I know which one inspires me to do better work.  

Your vision for your teen plays a big role in shaping their life.  If you think they are dishonest, or lazy, or aren’t very smart, those things are going to be true for them in their lives because they take their cues from you.  On the other hand, if you think they are smart, talented, and have a bright future ahead of them, that’s going to play a big part in pointing them onto that path.  Imagine the best for them and shape your actions towards helping them bring that future into being.  

Does that mean you just ignore all their faults?  No, of course not.  But it’s like the old 80/20 rule.  Spend 80% of the time appreciating them and only 20% focusing on the negative stuff and see if you don’t see a lot more of the awesome stuff!  

Adrian’s Crazy Life is just that, bits and piece of my crazy life – my job, my 3 fabulous boys, my papercrafting business, my 4 grandkids, the whole enchilada.  I’m always going 90 miles an hour with my hair on fire, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I love to give advice of all kinds, so I have lots and lots of posts on my site about decluttering, managing your finances, parenting, and whatever else I feel like an expert on that day.  C’mon over and visit me at AdriansCrazyLife.com.