Spot the clue. Know what to do.
Not Listening & "No"
"No" is often the only control they have.
Spot the clue: Not Listening & "No"
| The clue you see | What it means | Do tonight |
|---|---|---|
| Says "no" before you finish talking | Expects to be steamrolled. Defends early. | Pause. Let them finish your sentence next time. |
| Only listens when you yell | You trained the volume knob without meaning to. | Get close, whisper the ask once, and wait. |
| Says "yes" then doesn't do it | Agreeing is easier than processing. | Have them say it back: "What are you going to do first?" |
| Argues every single request | Needs a voice, not just orders. | Two choices, both okay with you. Choice ends the debate. |
| Ignores you when focused on play | Truly didn't hear. Deep focus blocks sound. | Touch their shoulder. Say their name. Then the ask. |
Then do Monae's 3 steps: 1. Stop ✋ 2. Breathe 🌬️ 3. Say what I need 🗣️
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