​Balancing Relationships While Parenting Teens

During stressful times we may find our relationships take a hit too. Parenting during the teen years can put a strain on your marriage/relationship with your partner. Between struggling to keep your emotions in check and learning to handle your teen’s experiences, you may find relationships get neglected or you have trouble bringing your best self to the relationship. 
 
It doesn’t necessarily have to be this way though! There is hope! I’d like to share with you a few ways to continue nurturing your relationships, in addition to the one with your teen.  
 
One thing you may have heard is that relationships take work and nurturance. So, it only makes sense that you would need to dedicate time, energy, and love to those who hold a special place in your life. What does this really look like in daily life though? 
 
Reconnect
 A good way to show you care is to make time to reconnect. This means setting aside time for one another despite all the stuff that might be dividing your attention right now. Pencil it in, get a sitter, and show up. Make sure when you are dedicating time to your relationship that you are as present as you can be. This means putting down the phone, which I know might be tough, but I promise you will thank me later. 
 
Small Gestures
It’s not so much about the price tag or how big the actual thing is that you are doing for someone you care about. More times than not, we just want to know that someone else thinks of us when we are not around or that someone is actually paying attention to the things we say. A thinking of you text or call can truly turn someone’s day around and put a smile on their face, and yours! Get creative!
 
Stay United 
When it comes to marriage/partnership and parenting, remember that you are in this together. Revisit your roles in parenting, chances are they need to be reevaluated, you do have a teen on your hands now! Revisiting roles, discussing individual values and parenting styles can help ensure you are on the same page. This way you won’t be divided or manipulated by your teen who is all about that freedom and independence, no matter the cost. 
 
It can be a struggle to find the time or energy to focus on something other than your teen, but it is possible and necessary. If you keep the foundation of your relationship intact then you won’t be alone in your frustrations or in trying to figure out healthy solutions. 

Need help figuring out some fun ways to reconnect or make some of those small gestures? Be sure to download my FREE Reconnecting Ideas List for ways to be creative and breathe new life into your relationships.

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