Question: My parents give me allowance, but only when I help around the house. I seem to be very lazy lately. How can I push myself to do more stuff?

Answer: Your parents are wise. If you want the privilege of having an allowance you should have some reasonable responsibilities. Sit down with your parents and make a list of the tasks that you all agree to. Then make a checklist and put it in some obvious place such as on the refrigerator door. Set up your schedule and check the items off when they are done.

You'll feel good about what you have accomplished, and your parents will easily see you are being accountable for what you said you would do. The key word with your responsibilities is "reasonable," discuss any areas of confusion in advance, and be willing to negotiate and compromise so everyone's priorities are met.

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