Respect and Appreciation

If you ask any mom what they want most from their kids, right behind love, is respect and appreciation. It seems no matter how much we do for our teens, it often goes unnoticed and the disrespectful attitude still rears it’s ugly head. While it may seem counterintuitive, doing less for them and giving your kids the freedom to make mistakes can actually lead to more respect and appreciation for you. Let’s dive into the power of failure, and how it can strengthen the bond between you and your teen.

Respect breeds respect

As moms, we deeply value respect, and that includes the respect our teenagers have for us. Allowing them to fail is a way of respecting their individual journeys and fostering their independence. When you show faith in their ability to learn from their mistakes, you earn their respect in return. By empowering your teens to make their own decisions and face the consequences, you demonstrate that you believe in their capacity to grow and mature. Read more about the idea of giving respect to gain respect from Developmental Science.

Growing in Appreciation

When you allow your teen to fail, you provide them with invaluable opportunities for growth and self-discovery. As your teen encounters challenges, they start to appreciate the unwavering support you offer them. They come to understand that you’re not just there to fix their problems but to guide them through life’s ups and downs.

By witnessing their failures and offering your love and encouragement, you become an irreplaceable source of comfort and wisdom. So, instead of telling your teen how they should do something and then telling them “I told you so” when they do it their own way, just let them do it their own way. Applaud them for their willingness to try and guide them to their next step. Then revel in the appreciation that develops within your teenager as they realize the depth of your support on their journey of self-development.

Be the light

It’s crucial to strike a delicate balance between allowing your teen to fail and providing them with your unwavering support. As their mom, you are their biggest cheerleader and confidant. When they stumble, you step in with gentle guidance and empathy, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey. By offering a safe space for them to express their frustrations and fears, you deepen the respect and appreciation they have for you. So, continue to be the beacon of support, understanding that your role is not to shield them from failure, but to guide them through it with love and care.

It’s all out of love

By allowing your teenagers to fail, you pave the way for more profound respect and appreciation. Celebrate their individual growth, knowing that their failures are stepping stones to success. As you nurture their independence, they learn to value your unwavering support, recognizing the immense love and dedication you pour into their lives. Empower your teens, foster their resilience, and watch the bond between you grow stronger than ever before. Respect them, appreciate them, and let the magic unfold!

You can read more on gaining respect from your teenager in my previous post.

Not sure how to balance it all? Check out my FREE guide using proven strategies.