"Threshold to the Future" by Mimi Stuart
Live the Life you Desire

Judgment and attacks rarely help people improve their attitude. It’s human nature to stop listening when being criticized (teens in particular). Discussing cause and effect is more compelling than fear-mongering.

You might capture their attention by starting out with your positive motivation. Then you’ll be more effective by explaining how an attitude of entitlement hurts a person in life.

For instance, “I care about your future happiness and self-empowerment. My concern is that you will suffer a lot of disappointment if you appear entitled by not contributing to those around you. People respect those who make an effort to show initiative and appreciation for others’ efforts. A willingness to participate fosters good working relationships in life and leads to personal power.”

When others sense that your concern is for their welfare AND that you are not attacking or trying to control them, they are more likely to listen and take your message to heart.

by Alison Poulsen, PhD

Read “I’ve told you kids a thousand times to say ‘Thank you#!*%*!!'”