Hello to all you wonderful moms out there! Have you ever found yourself in that heart-wrenching tug-of-war with your adult child? It's a tough spot to be in, right? Sometimes, you might question whether your support is genuinely helping them or if it's inadvertently holding them back. Well, I'm Sally Harris, and I've walked this challenging road with my own daughter for over a decade. Today, I'm excited to share some insights that can truly transform the way you approach this situation. We'll explore the difference between being a helper and an enabler, and how you can shift towards empowerment in your relationship.

Let's dive straight into it. Understanding the distinction between helping and enabling is crucial. Helping means providing support that encourages growth, responsibility, and self-sufficiency in our adult children (or anyone else who needs our support). Think of it as offering a helping hand to guide them as they navigate towards independence and personal growth.

On the other hand, enabling is a bit trickier. It happens when our well-meaning intentions unintentionally reinforce negative behaviors and shield our adult children from the consequences of their actions. It's like stepping in to protect them from facing the outcomes of their choices, which can hinder their growth in the long run.

Now, let's explore the power of helping. Imagine it as giving your adult child the tools and guidance they need to overcome challenges they might not be equipped to handle alone. This kind of assistance fosters emotional, psychological, and personal growth. It boosts their confidence and nurtures their independence – qualities that are vital as they navigate the world as adults.

Empowerment is where things get exciting. It's when your child takes ownership of their actions and decisions. This empowerment leads to higher self-esteem and a sense of control over their lives, something that's absolutely essential for their journey into adulthood. Additionally, healthy helping strengthens the bond between you and your child, building trust and fostering open communication

Now, let's talk about enabling. While it might seem easier at times, offering quick solutions and immediate relief, it can lead to a cycle of dependence. Enabling prevents your child from learning important life lessons and coping skills. It might shield them from the consequences of their actions, unintentionally preventing their growth.

To put this into perspective, consider financial support. While it's natural to want to help your child when they're financially struggling, what if their financial issues stem from poor money management? Constantly providing money might inadvertently enable irresponsible spending habits. Similarly, think about relationships. If your child turns to you after every argument with their partner, you might be faced with a dilemma. Are you genuinely helping them or unknowingly enabling unhealthy patterns?

As we wrap up, remember that you're not alone on this journey. Recognizing the difference between helping and enabling is a significant step towards positive change. Striking a balance means setting clear boundaries that guide your support without inhibiting growth.

In conclusion, your ability to empower is a game-changer. If you found value in our discussion today, take a moment to reflect on how you can apply these insights in your own relationship with your adult child. Remember, small changes can lead to significant transformations. Until next time, take care and keep empowering!

I want to remind you that you are not alone in this journey. Navigating the delicate balance between helping and enabling can be challenging, but with the right insights and strategies, you can pave the way for a healthier, more empowering relationship with your adult child. If you find yourself needing further support and guidance, remember that I am here to help. Reach out to me for a consultation call, where we can delve into your unique circumstances and collaboratively develop strategies to overcome any enabling behaviors. Your journey towards empowerment starts with that first step.

Book your Discovery Call through the link below. Together, we can work towards fostering a relationship that nurtures growth, independence, and positive communication.