Boundaries or Bully?

Conflict with your kids isn't just normal—it's necessary.

As a parent, you're not fighting against your child. You're fighting for them.

It's easy to feel like the bad guy or a bully when you're constantly saying "no" or enforcing rules.

But remember: Your role is to shape, not to please.

When it comes to discipline:
Getting into your child's mind is key.
What motivates them? What do they value?

• Spanking

• Time out

• Taking things away

• Taking screen time away

These things work on some kids and on others they don’t.
We have three kids, and all require different discipline.

Find a consequence big enough to guide their will,
but not so harsh it crushes their spirit.

It's a delicate balance, and you won't always get it right.
You'll second-guess yourself.
You'll wonder if you're being too strict or too lenient.

That's okay. When you mess up, seek forgiveness, then do better next time.
Their future self will thank you for the boundaries you set today.

Boundaries are where your child learns to navigate the world.
You're not just raising a kid. You're raising a future adult.
An adult who will face the same hard world we do.

Stay strong. Stay loving. Stay consistent.

The struggle is worth it. Your child is worth it.

• There are probably only two options to get alone time with young kids. Before they wake up or after they go to sleep. This time is highly valuable to “feed” yourself so you can continue to pour into your family and work the next day.

• To do great things, you have to aim at not well defined and not externally imposed goals. Great things don’t present themselves fully to us today.

The audio version contains additional context and insight. Please consider listening by clicking the link below!

I hope you have a great week!

God Bless,
Matt Virgin