If a parent asks if you need anything, say “It’s okay, I can get it!” This will show them that you’re not only willing to get things on your own, but that you prefer to take care of yourself. If a parent offers to make you a snack, flip the offer around on them. Say, “Why don’t I make us something to eat” instead. Even if they decline the offer, they’ll be impressed.
If you know that you’re going to lose an argument, state your case and then admit defeat. Saying “you’re right” is a good way to demonstrate your emotional maturity. Acknowledge when you’re getting upset. It’s okay to say, “Sorry, I need a second to calm down. I’m getting upset and want to cool off for a moment. ”
Consider making a deal with a teacher that you’re fond of to make a positive phone call home if you do well on a major assignment. Even if your teacher mentions that it was your idea, it will show them that you care about what they think.
Saving money is also an essential step in showing your parents that you’re serious about buying something. If you want to buy something badly enough that you’re willing to save your money, then you’ll show them how much it really means to you.
Simple comments can go a long way. If you’re sitting down for a family meal, say “I used to really dislike this kind of food, but I’m starting to like it as I get older. ”
Bragging shows that you don’t understand how to be humble. Don’t talk about how good you are. If you are doing the right thing, your parents will notice without you bringing it up.
Don’t go out of your way to seek out new responsibilities to prove that you can handle them if you aren’t already taking care of the stuff you normally need to do.
Don’t shy away from opportunities to admit you messed up. It’s only going to get worse if you put it off or avoid it. Feel free to explain mistakes but don’t make excuses. “Sorry, I forgot to take the trash out because I got caught up in my game” sounds much better than “I couldn’t take the trash out because I was playing a game. ”
Don’t make promises that are unrealistic. Even if you make an effort to follow through, it won’t matter if you break your promise. Getting straight A’s on your report card will be hard to do if you’re already averaging a C in each class!
If your parents are concerned about the expense, ask them about getting a rabbit. Rabbits are excellent pets that require very little money to purchase and care for. If your parents don’t want to jump right into a dog or cat, offer to start with something small like a hamster or fish.
Research the financial requirements and start saving up. Your parents will take the idea more seriously if you understand the financial burden and show that you are willing to chip in. It can help to point out the benefits for your parents when asking about getting a car. Explain that they won’t need to drive you around or pick you up from things if they get you a vehicle.
Expensive purchases can take a long time to evaluate. Rushing your parents is one of the best ways to avoid getting what you want. Prepare your parents for what you want to talk about my mentioning it at the start. Say, “I’d like to talk to you about getting a dog,” and then give them a moment to form their initial thoughts before stating your case.
Don’t try to turn conversations about responsibility into a negotiation. Instead of saying things like, “If I do the chores for the rest of the month you should let me get a new phone,” try “how can I prove that I can take care of a new phone?” Make the conversation about the process, not the reward.
