How to Focus on the Positive, not the Negative

It's so easy to yell at the kids when they mess up, but it's even easier to say 'good job' when they do something right! Positive reinforcement works for everyone. You like that 'pat on the back'.

Instructions

    • 1

      When you see your child, significant other, or friend and if you feel the need to say something negative take an additional moment to think of something nice to say. Remember what Mom said 'if you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all.'

    • 2

      Your child is so excited he only missed one problem on the math test! You say how proud you are and place the test on the Family Bulletin Board for all to see. When the time is right talk about the question he missed. Did he run out of time, didn't read the question properly or maybe simply wrote the answer incorrectly. The goal is to remedy the problem as soon as possible to avoid the mistake occurring in the future, but not rain on his parade at his happiest time!

    • 3

      This is a tough one but you can do it! Your significant other has been working out and asks if you can see the results. Ask which parts of the body were the focus of the workout and look a little closer. You say 'Now that you mentioned it yes I do see results!' The goal is a happy home.

    • 4

      This is a sensitive one....your mother wants you to visit. Keep in mind you were just there 2 months earlier due to a family emergency and you live 2000 miles away. Your response 'Mom I want you to visit me, get away for awhile, see where I live.' You'll be amazed how quickly the subject changes.

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