Breaking the Cycle: Empowering Parents to Create Change
Sometimes, the truth can be uncomfortable and even anger-inducing. However, it is essential to address certain issues head-on, especially when it comes to young adults who are struggling with motivation, mental health, and finding their path in life.
Breaking the Enabling Cycle:
Enabling a dysfunctional relationship can hinder a young adult’s growth and prevent them from moving forward. As parents, it is crucial to recognize the need for change and take action. Here are two key steps to consider:
1. Gain Confidence in Your Parenting:
Building confidence in your parenting abilities is essential when addressing the challenges your young adult is facing. Recognize you have the knowledge, experience, and love necessary to guide them towards a healthier path. Seek support from professionals, attend parenting workshops, read parenting books meant for parenting this age group, or engage in self-reflection to strengthen your parenting skills. By gaining confidence, you can approach the situation with a clear mind and make decisions that are in the best interest of your child’s long-term well-being.
2. Allow for Big Feelings:
It is important to create a safe space for your young adult to express their emotions, even if they are intense or uncomfortable. Understand their struggles may be rooted in mental health issues or a lack of direction. Encourage open and honest conversations, and validate their feelings without judgment. By allowing them to express themselves, you can foster a deeper understanding of their needs and concerns.
Empowering Change:
While you cannot force your son or daughter to change, you can empower them by:
3. Setting clear boundaries:
Establishing boundaries helps create structure and accountability. Clearly communicate your expectations and consequences, ensuring they are fair and reasonable.
Encouraging self-reflection: Encourage your young adult to explore their interests, strengths, and goals. Help them identify their passions and guide them towards resources that can support their personal growth.
Seeking professional help: If your child is struggling with mental health issues, encourage them to seek professional support. Therapy or coaching can provide valuable tools and strategies to navigate their challenges.
Breaking the enabling cycle and empowering change in the relationship with your young adult is a challenging but necessary step towards their growth and development. Gain confidence in your parenting abilities, create a safe space for open communication, and empower them to take responsibility for their own journey. Remember, change takes time, patience, and consistent effort. By taking these steps, you can support your young adult in finding motivation, purpose, and a path towards a fulfilling life.
