To the parent doing the invisible work
Have you ever felt like you're failing as a parent, even though you're trying everything?
Recently, a colleague challenged me to do something that seemed almost silly at first: thank myself as a parent. Not for the obvious wins – the honor roll ceremonies or winning games – but for the invisible battles that no one else sees.
My first reaction? "Ugh, how uncomfortable!" But as I started writing, everything shifted:
I thank myself for being resilient when I found out my son had ADD. For researching until 2 AM, desperate for answers. For walking into that new school, heart pounding, knowing we needed more support.
I thank myself for loving him, even in those moments when he was being impossible. For taking deep breaths during explosive arguments. For sitting quietly with my fear when his phone went straight to voicemail at 1 AM.
I thank myself for never giving up on him. For seeing past the behaviors to the beautiful soul underneath. For having the humility to admit I needed help when nothing I tried was working.
As I wrote, tears streamed down my face.
Because this is what real parenting looks like – not the carefully curated social media moments, but the sacred, messy work of loving our children through everything.
Today, my son is thriving. But the path here was anything but straight. Those countless sleepless nights, the arguments that felt like they would break us, the worry that consumed me – they're all part of our story.
If you're nodding along right now – if you're feeling lost, overwhelmed, or wondering if anything will ever change – I want you to know something: This chapter of your story isn't written in stone.
Together, we can transform your relationship with your teen from a source of stress into your greatest joy.
With understanding and hope,
♥️ Jeanine
➡️ P.S. Ready to start having those deep, meaningful conversations with your teen? I've created 5 Questions That Get Teens Talking – a free guide that gives you the exact words to break through the eye rolls and one-word answers. These aren't your typical "How was school?" questions. They're carefully crafted conversation starters that open hearts and rebuild trust. Get your copy here:
5 Questions That Get Teens Talking
➡️ P.P.S. Ready to transform your relationship with your teen? Book a Parenting Breakthrough Call today. You'll receive:
✅ A personalized assessment of your unique situation
✅ One powerful communication tool you can start using immediately
✅ A clear roadmap to rebuild trust and connection with your teen
You'll leave our conversation knowing exactly what to do next, with renewed hope and confidence that things can change.
