47. How to Like Your Stepchild Even When You're Feeling Frustrated and Annoyed

It's uncomfortable for any stepparent to admit they don't like their own step-child. But faking, avoiding or trying to grit your way through doesn't seem to help much.

Mike has fessed up over the years about the times he struggled to connect with my daughter Annika. Their personalities are very different and he didn't always agree with my approach to parenting — which really meant that he disliked her behavior.

That sometimes lead to frustration and irritation and he didn't really enjoy being around her that much.  When those moments hit, he just didn't like her!

There can be many reasons why a stepparent might feel frustrated with their step-child. Especially if that child is struggling themselves.  Kids can seem to be overly needy, manipulative or even destructive at times and that's tough for stepparents to handle.

And while this might seem like one more situation you don't have any control over as a stepparent — there are some positive and productive things you CAN do regardless of how your spouse and their children behave.

In this episode, discover how Mike adjusted his perspective and gained more empathy and understanding…and experience more fun with Annika. 

You'll Discover:

• Mike's personal struggle with negative thoughts and emotions around Annika (Kim's daughter)
• A new perspective about your stepchild's 'personhood' vs. their 'position'
• How to build more empathy for a stepchild that's negatively impacting your life and causing frustration
• 3 strategies that helped Mike to move beyond his dislike to create more connection with Annika

Resources from this Episode:

• Episode 44 — Why Does My Husband's Ex Think I'm the Enemy?
• Episode 26 — Are You Stuck In A "Competition" With Your Step-Kids?
• Want to suggest a topic or ask a question that we can answer on the show?  Click this link to share with us:  https://www.mikeandkimcoaching.com/share

Subscribe & Review in Apple Podcasts

Are you subscribed to our podcast yet?  If not, we want to encourage you to subscribe today so you don't miss an episode.  Click here to subscribe in Apple Podcasts

Now if you’re feeling extra helpful, we would be so grateful if you left us a review over on Apple Podcasts too. Your review will help others find our podcast — plus they’re fun for us read too! :-)  Just click here to Review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Want to Support the Show?

You can join our mission of safe-guarding marriages and supporting step-couples by connecting with our Patreon community.  By everyone doing just a little, we can create big opportunities.

Consider joining our community for as little as $4 per month and as a "thank you" — you'll have even more access directly to us!  Click here to join our community today

Are you ready to join the Blending Together Community?  Click this link:  https://www.blendedfamilybreakthrough.com/blendingtogether