A friend who wants "exclusive" access to you is likely insecure, easily bored, or uncomfortable around your family, causing them to overcompensate by demanding 100% of your focus.
Your mother is likely the one bearing the brunt of your friend's energy. Check in with her frequently. A simple squeeze of the hand or a quick "Thanks for being so patient" goes a long way. Make sure she doesn't feel like a guest in her own family outing. If your friend is being particularly overbearing, don't be afraid to pull them aside and say, "Hey, I noticed you're interrupting Mom a lot. Let's make sure she gets a chance to tell her stories too." The Power of the Solo Walk
The trouble usually starts before you even leave the driveway. While you are trying to load the cooler, your friend pulls you aside.
And here’s the ugly truth I’m whispering to the fire:
"Rachel, can I talk to you for a minute?" I asked, my voice firm but polite.
"One of us wants to hike, one of us wants to nap, and one of us wants 'exclusive' attention. Guess which one I am? 🏕️"
"I need to tell you something. But your mom can't hear."
The key is to get your mom on your team without making it a "side-taking" war. A simple, whispered, "Mom, she’s being really weird about me paying attention to anyone but her—can you help me create some space?" works wonders.
I sighed inwardly, feeling trapped. It seemed like my mom was oblivious to the fact that Rachel was suffocating me.
A friend who wants "exclusive" access to you is likely insecure, easily bored, or uncomfortable around your family, causing them to overcompensate by demanding 100% of your focus.
Your mother is likely the one bearing the brunt of your friend's energy. Check in with her frequently. A simple squeeze of the hand or a quick "Thanks for being so patient" goes a long way. Make sure she doesn't feel like a guest in her own family outing. If your friend is being particularly overbearing, don't be afraid to pull them aside and say, "Hey, I noticed you're interrupting Mom a lot. Let's make sure she gets a chance to tell her stories too." The Power of the Solo Walk
The trouble usually starts before you even leave the driveway. While you are trying to load the cooler, your friend pulls you aside.
And here’s the ugly truth I’m whispering to the fire:
"Rachel, can I talk to you for a minute?" I asked, my voice firm but polite.
"One of us wants to hike, one of us wants to nap, and one of us wants 'exclusive' attention. Guess which one I am? 🏕️"
"I need to tell you something. But your mom can't hear."
The key is to get your mom on your team without making it a "side-taking" war. A simple, whispered, "Mom, she’s being really weird about me paying attention to anyone but her—can you help me create some space?" works wonders.
I sighed inwardly, feeling trapped. It seemed like my mom was oblivious to the fact that Rachel was suffocating me.