When rules don’t work, try this instead.

Ever feel like every rule you set just turns into another battle?

"Be home by 10."
Suddenly, they’re arguing for 10:30.

"No phones after 9."
Somehow... still scrolling at 9:15.

"You’re not hanging out with them."
Next thing you know, they're finding a way around it.

And pretty soon, you feel less like a parent... and more like a full-time security guard.

Exhausted. Frustrated. And honestly? A little heartbroken.

Because this isn’t how you pictured parenting would feel.

You don’t want to be the bad guy. You just want your teen to make good choices — even when you’re not around.

But here’s what most parents don’t realize:

Rules by themselves don’t change behavior.

Feeling a sense of responsibility does.

What if instead of just enforcing rules...

...you invited your teen into a conversation about what kind of person they want to be?

This is how rules become less about control — and more about how your family lives, loves, and looks out for each other.

Call them whatever you want — family standards, family values, or just... what you stand for.

Things like:

→ We look out for each other.
→ We’re honest, even when it’s hard.
→ We take care of our body and mind.

And when a situation comes up — like going to a party — you can simply say:

"You want to go, and I want you to go, too. And be safe."

Then ask:
"What’s your plan if someone offers you a drink?"

Now, you’re not lecturing.

You’re raising a teen who learns to think for themselves before they’re in a tough spot.

Less drama. Less pushback.

More trust. More peace.

And maybe best of all?

You get that moment every parent hopes for…

When your teen comes home — drops their stuff on the counter — and actually tells you about their night.

Because they trust you.

Because they feel trusted.

This is possible.

For you. For your teen. For your family.

And you don’t have to figure it out alone.

❤️ Jeanine 

P.S. If you’re tired of feeling like the bad guy (and ready to feel like a team again), let’s talk. Book a free Parenting Breakthrough Call with me here. I’ll help you map out a new approach that helps your teen step up — and helps you breathe easier.