Overbearing Mothers

1. Realize there are reasons why your mother is overbearing and that you won't ever be able to change her.

2. Work on establishing boundaries immediately. Decide which aspects of your life you won't share with your mother, then remind her when she invades them.

3. Learn this phrase and repeat it often, "I love you, but I don't want to discuss that with you." Then change the subject when your mother begins to meddle.

4. Consider writing your mother a letter, detailing how you would like your relationship to evolve.

5. Thank your mother for her suggestions on how to live your life, then move on to a more stimulating conversation.

6. Strive to seek approval from yourself instead of your mother. When you're self-confident, your mother's controlling tendencies won't get under your skin.

7. Opt for caller ID so you can be prepared for potentially overbearing conversations- or screen the call to measure the importance of the message.

8. Try to call her back within a day; Controlling mothers are fueled by neglect, and you can avoid possible nagging with a prompt call back.

9. Appreciate the fact that someone cares about you that they need to call you before, during, and after every small event in your life.

10. Refrain from any guilt your overbearing mother may try to trip you up with. No one should feel guilty for living their own life.

Note: I do not have an overbearing mother, she is quite the opposite. However, I do notice that this is a common factor here in Utah. Plus it was on my mind. Plus Plus I love BEWITCHED. I used to watch it every day after school when I was in third or fourth grade.