Keri Maughan is back and this time we’re talking about ENTITLEMENT. Ahhh, this is one of the biggest battles of our kids generation. What’s the first question most parents (myself included) ask their kids after school, sports, etc? “did you have fun?” I’m so guilty of this. When did the emphasis become FUN over HARD WORK and SERVICE?

• Parenting is hard.

• Parenting tough kids is harder.

• Parenting an *ENTITLED kid is hardest!

The Disease:

• Surrendering to the increasing demands for the newest, latest, and shiniest “tech gadget;”

• Satisfying the cravings for the instant gratification of being constantly entertained, fed, and amused;

• The unspoken understanding of being rescued from any emotional, social or physical discomfort;

• Produces a society which breeds Entitlement!

• Sadly, what makes it much more painful, is the truth, that, we parents and grandparents, members of society….are the greatest contributors to children and young adults who have…

• ENTITLED PERCEPTIONS AND BEHAVIORS!

• *(Kids who want what they want, when they want it, and expect you to give it to them…now!)

The Remedy…?

• We need our words to be powerful and meaningful

• We need our actions to give power and meaning to our words through using methods that are kind and compassionate

• Both to our children and ourselves!

• Begin with Gratitude!

• Living it, modeling it

• Providing opportunities to develop it:

Observe and befriend those who live simply and appreciate it

Serve where it is challenging to do so, allowing self-worth to be ignited in both the giver and receiver

Find beauty in nature and “be” in it…without the aid of modern conveniences. Gratitude for Mother Earth and her generosity can be developed as well as the ease with which life flows with the use of “screens” and other helpful gadgets, has greater value.

Spend quality time together…without any distractions, playing, laughing, connecting!

Make a habit of expressing your appreciation to family members for the contribution of others in your community/world to the happiness, comfort and joy in your life!

Successful Parenting requires:

• Parents to have an understanding of oneself,

• Parents to have an understanding of one’s connection to their children and other family members,

• Parents to take personal accountability of the results of their actions; and

• Parents to take responsibility and actions to make changes, where necessary, to help things go right.

XXO Keri & Lisa