How Do You Navigate Difficult Parents? (Seriously… How?) 🤦‍♀️

Some parents are difficult without even realizing it. Not cruel. Not hateful. Just… unintentionally poking at sore spots with comments like:

• “Are you sure you should be eating that?”

• “You’re really going to spend money on that?”

• “I’m just being honest!”

Their words land heavier than they think, and suddenly you’re 12 years old again, trying to breathe through hurt feelings you didn’t ask for.

So how do you handle it as an adult?

Start by reminding yourself that most of their comments come from their habits, fears, and blind spots — not from anything you’re doing wrong. You don’t have to argue, defend, or explain your choices. A simple “I’m good, thanks,” or a topic change works wonders and protects your peace without creating a scene.

Boundaries help, too. Deciding ahead of time what you’ll talk about, what you’ll ignore, and when you’ll take a step back keeps you from getting swept into old patterns. Sometimes limiting certain conversations — or shortening a visit — is the healthiest choice for everyone.

The hardest part is letting go of the “dream parent” version we all secretly wish existed. The one who never questions your weight, your spending, your life, or your decisions. Real parents are human, complicated, and often unaware of how their words land. Accepting that doesn’t erase the sting, but it does make it easier to handle the real person in front of you.

And whatever you feel — frustration, sadness, confusion, even humor — it’s valid. You’re allowed to protect your peace, even when the difficult person is someone you love.