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A Heartfelt Conversation with My Son
A while back, my son, Ethan, was in a bit of a funk, feeling like he wasn’t as “in” with his friends as he wanted to be. Now, before we dive into what popularity really means—because honestly, who needs that drama?—let’s just say my usually outgoing kid was starting to get grumpy as he sensed some distance from his buddies.
Understanding Friendships
We had the typical discussions about friendships and how sometimes trying too hard can lead to more problems than solutions. He was listening, but it felt half-hearted. Then I had an idea: I decided to play a little game. I named a few people—friends, family, a teacher or two—and asked him to share the first three words that popped into his head for each one. He came up with some pretty great descriptors like “funny,” “smart,” and “a bit goofy.”
Reflecting on Self-Perception
Then, I flipped the question: “What three words would you want people to think of when they see you?” He hesitated a moment before saying things like “funny, cool, and interesting.” All great choices. But then I asked him if he thought those were the words people would think of based on how he’d been acting recently. He paused and admitted they probably weren’t.
We chatted a bit more about how his choices could better reflect not just how others see him, but how he sees himself too. It was one of those moments where, even though I was guiding the conversation, he was the one figuring it all out. No finger-wagging or lecturing—just a genuine exchange. It felt good, and I think it resonated with him too.
Celebrating Small Wins
Sure, I know that in a few minutes, there will be another meltdown or maybe I’ll end up raising my voice and apologizing later, but I was pretty proud of how that conversation unfolded. More importantly, Ethan felt better, and as parents, we know those little wins are worth celebrating, even if it’s just a quiet moment after the kids are in bed.
Further Reading
If you’re interested in similar stories or tips, check out this other blog post for more insights into the journey of parenthood. And for those navigating their own fertility journeys, make sure to visit Make A Mom for expert advice. You can also find great resources at CCRM IVF that delve into pregnancy and home insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, sometimes it takes a simple conversation to help our kids reflect on themselves and their feelings. As parents, those moments remind us of our shared experiences and the growth we encourage.