Being an Example | Shopping Habits

Oct 18, 2011 by April    1 Comment     Posted under: Shopping Habits

Being an example while adjusting shopping habits has a much farther reach than just your checking account or cluttered space. If you’re a parent, being an example takes on a completely different meaning in your journey. As a parent myself, I’m always aware of how I’m being an example to my kids, their friends and even other parents.

Adjusting Shopping Habits :: Being an Example as a Parent:

image by Muffet on Flickr

In the past, when I was involved with family clients, I saw the most powerful changes happen after a parent shared their “challenges” with their children. Being an example as a grown up, admitting what they were working to improve in themselves, was often a powerful bonding experience. However, coming up with a game plan for respectful support is the key ingredient for such a decision.

Example:

When you all are out shopping, help each other remember the questions from the Shopping Questions post.
Be honest about answers and help support what ever decision is made.
Open up to the possibility that your child’s honesty is rooted in love and concern.

Being an Example as a Friend:

Peer support is HUGE when breaking habits or adjusting a lifestyle. Frequently folks decide to change their shopping habits because of some insight or action another friend is taking.

It is important to understand where your receiving support and where you may be, unwittingly, offering it.

If you notice someone else following your lead offer a helping hand, especially in areas that are rough patches.

Being an Example as a Partner:

Communicating much of this advice comes from my work with Loved Ones of Hoarders. A spouse reaches out for help long before their hoarding partner is ready. Being an example as a partner comes in a unique form.

What you don’t say is equally important as what you DO say.

Withholding criticism or disappointment allows the shopper to come to terms with their decisions without the defenses always at the ready.

Most importantly here, shopping habits weren’t created in a day ~ week ~ month, they won’t be changed that quickly either.

While being an example as shopping habits are changed comes in many different roles they all hold one thing in common. A center stage performance.

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How are you being an example while adjusting your shopping habits?

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