Table of contents:
- 1. The important thing is to have the courage to start
- 2. You need to know what to talk about and to whom you are talking
- 3. Choose the right time and place
- 4. Say what needs to be said
- 5. Get in the habit of talking about good things
- However, what if that doesn't work?
Talking to your parents about what you are experiencing or feeling is not as easy as it might seem. Because if it's easy, then no child will lie to their parents. And even if it's difficult, you still need to let your parents know about what you were going through and feeling.
Here are some tips you can use to help you talk honestly with your parents.
1. The important thing is to have the courage to start
If you feel like your relationship with your parents is not very good, then you really should start! It's never too late to start, because the first thing you need to do to get started is to try to be brave and overcome fear.
Don't hesitate or be embarrassed, because after all, your parents were the first to be there for you - no matter what. They will even be happy if you talk to them honestly. And whatever their reaction to what you have to say, have no fear! Because their reaction is clear proof they care for you.
Tips: You can start off lightly. This can keep you connected, making it easier for you to move on to other, bigger topics.
2. You need to know what to talk about and to whom you are talking
Make sure your message is clear so they know how you feel and what you want. You need to prepare what you want to say; no need to prepare thoroughly, just have the key points ready to make it easier as this will help you start and have a conversation.
And if you already know what you're going to say, you need to know who you're going to talk to. Is it to father, mother, or both?
Tips: You can talk to your dad, mom, or anyone you feel comfortable talking about. And to start a conversation, you can start with, "Mom / Dad, I need some advice, here."
3. Choose the right time and place
It may seem trivial, to talk about something that is bad or will upset your parents, get angry or upset you need to choose the right time and place. You are not encouraged to talk about bad news when your parents are about to go to work, are at work, or do certain activities.
Tips: Wait while your parents are relaxing or when they are gathered in the main room.
4. Say what needs to be said
Say it clearly to help parents understand your situation. Describe what you think, feel, and want. Make it a habit to talk honestly with your parents, because lying will actually make it difficult for your parents to believe what you are saying.
Listen when your parents talk; and if you don't agree with their opinion, say it in a polite and gentle manner. This can help them know what you are thinking.
Tips: You can talk when you disagree with your parents' opinion, but you still need to listen carefully when your parents talk, so they know that you understand what they are talking about. Don't get into arguments that make the atmosphere chaotic.
5. Get in the habit of talking about good things
It's good if you don't just have bad things to do with your parents. You can talk about good things you did or had today, funny jokes from your friends, activities you did, and the like. This can help maintain a good relationship between you and your parents.
However, what if that doesn't work?
The relationship between each child and parent is different, so this method does not work completely for everyone. Therefore, if you still can't talk to your parents that way, find another adult you can trust. Find anyone, whether a relative, teacher, uncle, or aunt who can listen, understand, care, and trust you to help you deal with what you are experiencing and feeling.
