As parents, advising kids on important matters of life is integral. While most parents have plenty of career advice for kids, not many sit them down for a sensible chat on relationships.
Below are seven basic relationship tips that every parent should give their children
1. Learn to initiate
Gone are the days when you would endlessly wait for the other person to understand your feelings and take the first step in the relationship. Times have changed and how! We all live in such a fast-paced world that feelings change every now and then. So tell your kids to not wait for the other person to make the first move. If they like someone, it’s completely fine to walk up to them and express their emotions.
2. Give your best
Always tell your children to never stop trying be it their career or relationships, everything deserves their best efforts. No matter how the partner behaves, make sure your son/daughter gives his/her best to the relationship. This will either make the relationship work, if not, it will save them the regret of not having worked hard towards it.
3. Trust your intuition
As parents, you know that your intuition can never go wrong. Similarly, tell your kids to believe in their gut instincts. It will help them take the right decisions. Also, it’s your duty to set aside crucial ‘reflection time’ when your child is getting into a relationship. Obviously, you don’t want to use the ‘I told you so’ line on them!
4. Never lose your individuality
Be it among friends, family or their partner, ensure your son/daughter never gives up on his/her individuality. Teach them to respect themselves, only then will other people do the same. Respecting their desires and needs when it comes to relationships will only help them become better.
5. Break-ups are not fatal
Tell them that break-ups are not the end of the world and they will survive this, too. It might seem unbearable in the beginning, but talk to your child of ways to get over his/her ex. Everyone is allowed to make a few mistakes while on their way to find their perfect match. Remind them that the best is yet to come.
6. Compromise should always be a two-sided affair
No one is inferior than their partner in a relationship — make them understand this mantra. Compromises, adjustments and responsibilities should be shared, and this way, they will know that the other person is always there for them in need.
7. Never settle for mediocrity
Teach them to be in a relationship not because it’s the only option available, but because it’s wonderful. Settling for mediocre relationships will only make them look down upon pure love and happiness. As parents, show them how you and your husband have retained the passion and spark in yours.
Source: The Times of India