Sometimes, you can't get your child to do what you want her to do; you feel completely helpless. And then, you may erupt in rage, hoping that you will be able to "force" her to comply. But even if you succeed, you and she both feel the awfulness of your behavior and are harmed by it. For your own sake, and for the sake of your child, never allow yourself to behave in ways that make you feel bad afterward. It's better to remain helpless for a little while. You can use the time to seek some parenting advice from your spouse, a friend, a mentor or a book, and then you can come back to the situation to try to gain compliance in a different way. Remember: a little helplessness won't hurt you; a little rage, will.
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