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'Fess up! How to tell your parents the truth

 

So you lied to your parents. Again. While it's never okay to be dishonest, we understand that sometimes you make bad choices. The important thing is to come clean...before they catch you. Here's how to 'fess up in the best way (P.S. CLICK HERE if you need help with being more honest with your parents):

Just do it.

Telling your parents that you lied can be scary, especially if this isn't the first time it happened. But, just like ripping off a band-aid, there's no easy way around it. Find a time when both of your parents are free (sooner rather than later) and admit the truth.

Let them hear it from you.

Don't wait until they find out from your neighbor who saw you sneak out or your best friend's mom who knows you weren't really at their house. Confessing to your parents won't make it okay, but it will make the situation better if you have the maturity and character to tell them what happened on your own terms and not just because you got caught.

Be sincere.

Remember that you messed up. Even if you think your parents are overreacting or too strict, don't get defensive or accusatory. Now is not the time to bring up how you think their curfew rule is unfair. Instead, be apologetic and honest. Let them know you understand what you did was wrong and that you're ready to accept the consequences. And if you aren't sorry, take some time to reflect on why honesty is important and why lying to your parents is hurtful to them and your relationship.

Work hard to move forward.

You might feel like your parents hate you now, or that you've totally ruined everything. That's not true. It may take awhile to regain their trust but your parents love you no matter what. It's up to you now to be on your best behavior and not slip up. Try extra hard to be open and honest with Mom and Dad about every little thing. It'll be worth it. 

Have you ever had to confess something to your parents? How did you do it? Let us know below!

by Amanda Tarlton | 1/14/2019
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