How do you motivate your teen and get them to do what you want? Are you tired of the endless struggles with your teen to get them to do chores or their homework?
So many parents are frustrated with their troubled teen because they lack the motivation to do things on their own. But the main reason why your teen lacks motivation is because you as a parent have not shown them the “what’s in it for me” perspective and have not empowered them to choose the chore on their own.
Teens are highly motivated. I am sure that if you see them on their computer, talking with their friends, playing video games, etc…you’ll see that there is no problem with motivation when it comes to things they want to do. The challenge is that you have not shown them what is in it for them to do the things you want them to do. By telling your teens what to do without including them in the decision making process, your teen feels less motivated to do it because they see it as something that has nothing to do with their life.
If you want your troubled teen to be motivated about a chore or task, try to paint a picture for them so he or she would want to choose it on their own without you having to nag them. Show them what’s in it for them. Help them see the benefits. So instead of forcing your teen, you are getting them to agree on their own and now you won’t feel like its pulling teeth every time you need them to do something. Of course this takes time, patience, and a willingness to be creative and real with your teen about the real meanings behind chores and being responsible.
“I’m So Busy”
Of course “how” you motivate your teen takes time, patience, and creativity. So many parents are in a rush and so they don’t have the time to spend to be creative in how they approach motivating their teen. Most parents see their role as just a provider and caretaker. While those two roles are very important, the third and most important role is to be a guide for your teen in this life. To show them how things work and to show them how their choices can impact their life.
So the next time you find yourself struggling with your teen to get motivated to do something you want them to do, try being a little more creative with your approach and show them what is in it for them.
And if you still need help, give us a call!