TheTeenDoc.com

Changing the World One Teen at a Time

“I probably won’t get a date to prom.” “I bet I failed.” “I’m sure she won’t choose me for school representative.” Sometimes a teen’s pessimistic view can create their future.  It is up to you to figure out what might be under this negative thought process so the act of thinking more positively can begin.

Sure not every problem is going to be solved with positive thinking or words, but thinking positively doesn’t cost anymore and let’s face it, being around negative people is a real downer.  It zaps your energy.   The bigger concern is why your teen doesn’t think they can accomplish these things in the first place. 

Why aren’t they their best advocate? A good place to start is by asking yourself how much you use negative words about your ability or your teen’s ability.  Certainly watch the words that you use with your teen. When they have said that they were excited about something, did you reply, “Honey you can’t do that,” or have you said something like, “Are you kidding, you’d be the worst actor. You can’t even remember to take out the garbage. How much more an entire movie script?!”

I know some parents think they are trying to prevent the world from disappointing their teen. “The world can be tough.” Some parents will say, “I’m just toughening them up!” Sure, but it is actually the other way around. You say really kind things to your teen to toughen them up. Fill their self-esteem and self-worth cups before they leave home and they will believe they can do almost anything.  Next time your teen reaches a little beyond their grasp, try saying, “You know, you’ll never know until you try. After all, why not you?”

Related posts:

1. Are Your Words Hurting Your Teen?
2. Do You Know the Power Of Language To Your Teen?
3. Know What You Can And Can’t Change About Your Teen
4. Encouraging Your Teen To Think Positively
5. Rihanna’s Fighting Words