Lovely long nights and luxuriously lazy days - more than at any time, summer's when you need
your parents of your back. And the good news? A simple change of tactics will work wonders
in the getting your own way staes. Try these tips.
LOSING YOUR RAG What you normally do When mum and dad ask innocently "How was your day?" you go, "Who are you,
the police? Can't I have any privacy" Your parents think "What's her problem? She's out of control. Better keep a closer
eye on her A better idea When you lash out at your parents they'll want to know what's wrong, which isn't what you want!
Ask yourself why your so angry. Is it you or is it them? Knowing what the problem is will help you feel in control and less explosive.
When mum next asks how you are, calmly tell her whats on your mind. This sends a clear 'don't pry' message.
THE SILENT TREATMENT What you normally do Head to your room when you arrive home without even saying "Hi" to your folks, and avoid eye contact during dinner. Your parents think Why is she being so bolshy? When did our baby girl loose the power of speech? A better idea Shouting gets you nowhere so you clam up - this makes you fume while they have no idea what set you off.
To feel better, stop avoiding the problem and solve it! Make sure your calm then say, "I wasn't sure how to bring this up, but I'm upset you..."
They'll hear you - literally - and might even chnge their behavious next time.
BEING PASSIVE-AGGRESIVE What you normally do Your curfew is at 10:30pm but you constantly call at 10:25pm to say you'll be late. Your parents think She never listens to us. She's trying to test us. It's not hard to tell the time! A better idea Although you technically follow their rulesm you act up in little ways to show your not
happy about it. Problem is, your parents just think your being irresponsible. Win them over by logically arguing your
case, showing them you understand their concerns and offering a solution. Once it works out your way, you'll have proved
your point maturely instead of playing games.
JUST SAYING NO Your parents' voices automatically trigger your "No" reflex. Your parents think Why does she hate us so much? We can't even finish a sentence. A better idea Saying "No" to everything your parents ask means they'll think your constantly being unreasonable. It also means
they won't know when you've gone too far. To get them to back off, change your style a little. Stop saying "No" to every suggestion they make
and use "No" only when you mean it. This will teach them to respect your word, and when you say "Yes" they'll really appreciate it.
Follow these tips and you will beable to get along with your parents just that little bit better.