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When “THEY” Won’t Change! What do I do?

When dealing with people who refuse to change, it’s important to accept that you cannot force them to change, but you can control your own reactions and boundaries. Here are some suggestions based on the search results:

Focus on what you can control. You cannot change others, only yourself. Recognize that their resistance to change is not about you, but their own fears, habits or mindset. Ask yourself if this is truly your problem to solve or theirs.[3]

Communicate clearly and compassionately. Express how their behavior impacts you using “I” statements, without criticism or judgment.[1][4] Listen to understand their perspective. Brainstorm solutions together if they are open to it.[4]

Set boundaries. If their behavior is unacceptable, calmly explain your boundaries and the consequences if they continue, such as limiting contact.[1][4] Follow through consistently.

Give them space. Avoid nagging, passive aggression or controlling language.[1] Pressuring someone often backfires. Allow them time and space to consider change at their own pace.[4]

Focus on your relationship. Compliment positive traits, spend quality time together, and look for areas you both can grow.[1] A strong bond can sometimes motivate change more than criticism.

Know when to disengage. If they remain unwilling to change hurtful patterns after you’ve communicated needs and boundaries, you may need to accept them as they are or re-evaluate the relationship.[3][5]

Prioritize your wellbeing. Don’t sacrifice your own mental health trying to change someone unwilling. Seek support, set firm boundaries, and detach with love if needed.[5][1]

The key is balancing compassion for their journey with prioritizing your own peace of mind. Change is an inside job – you can inspire but not force it upon others.[3][5]

Citations:
[1] https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Loved-Ones-Who-Refuse-to-Change
[2] https://hbr.org/2001/11/the-real-reason-people-wont-change
[3] https://psychcentral.com/blog/imperfect/2018/04/stop-trying-to-change-people-who-dont-want-to-change
[4] https://www.verywellmind.com/when-your-spouse-doesnt-want-change-2302197
[5] https://tinybuddha.com/blog/what-to-do-when-people-dont-want-to-change/

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Fight Now or Fix Later? A Parenting Tool to Manage Defiant Behavior

By Ron Huxley, LMFT

Parents can diffuse defiance by delaying actions or a response. Conflict is inevitable in a family. Parents and children will not always see things eye-to-eye and arguments may pop up. If this becomes a regular hassle, this may mean that children are starting to consider it a game for how to guarantee mom or dad’s attention. Of course, it is negative attention, but that can make it all the more challenging to eliminate. 

Who says that mom or dad have to fight with the child? Why do you HAVE to reply to talking back or rude comments or annoying demands right now? A favorite Love and Logic tool of mine is Delaying Replies. Instead of fighting now, say: “I love you too much to argue with you…” or “I will have to do something about this behavior or attitude but not right now.” Delaying allows parents to cool off and consider a consequence or reply in a clear headed way and gather the support of the other parent. 

Try this Parenting Tool next time your child is defiant with you: 

Parenting With Love And Logic (Updated and Expanded Edition)

(affiliate link)

What else is Ron reading? Click here to see…

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It is easy to see how parents of teenagers can become so frustrated with them. It seems like every word that comes out of their mouth is defiant and demanding. Every interaction is selfish and narcissistic. What if every time your teen talks, it was an open window to their heart? Ignore the sounds of what is coming out and use this opportunity to speak words of grace, love and kindness. Pretend they are speaking a language your don’t understand and the only language you know how to speak is positive affirmation. Blow their minds with this strategy and transform their heart as well. 

Learn more power parenting tools with Ron Huxley’s parenting book: 

Love and Limits: Achieving a Balance in Parenting