An over-60’s tip to overcome generation gap
Anne Marr, 68, loves working with wildlife and lives in multigenerational home.
I’m very blessed really, with my son, daughter and grandson living with me and we all cohabited very happily. We also have two cats, two dogs, tropical fish, gold fish, two white ducks (our chatty girls) 23 chooks and one very proud rooster.
Having lived with four generations under one roof for seven-plus years I have learnt a great deal. I thought I‘d share this tip for any families that are living with multiple generations.
Coping with the younger generation can be quite challenging as their ideas differ a great deal from yours. One of the things I learnt is do not offer advice to the young – wait until it’s asked for. They will then want to listen. Don’t be upset though if they don’t take your advice. It is their journey after all not yours.
I’ve found that a great way to get a message across, especially if you all use the same bathroom or toilet is to stick-up an affirmation. I put mine on the bathroom mirror. We only have one bathroom and that in itself is a challenge when there’s five adults and one child!
I change my signs when the mood takes me and pending on what problems may occur during any given week.
A couple of examples I have used are:
- “Today I can choose to be in a good mood or a bad mood. I choose to be in a good mood.”
- “I will not pass the buck, the buck stops with me.”
My current message on the bathroom mirror reads: “The best ornament is humility. The strongest weapon is patience. The richest wealth is wisdom. The best security is faith. The best tonic is laughter.”
I’ve found it quite surprising how much everyone’s attitude seems to change when I put these notes up on the mirror. They’re to one side so it doesn’t block anyone’s image, but it’s obvious that they have been read as attitudes changes. And all without me having to say a word or be accused of that awful habit of nagging. I’ve noticed this week everyone’s laughing a lot more too!
If you have a story or advice to share, please get in touch at melody@oversixty.com.au.
Related links:
5 expert tips for connecting with your grandchildren
Life lessons my 96-year-old mother inadvertently taught me
Taking over raising our grandchild was tough but the most amazing thing we’ve done