Three reasons I avoid saying “I’m proud of you”.
1. Who ‘owns’ the achievement? (our pride is generally around an achievement).
2. “Proud” as praise – an external judgement of someone else’s achievements.
3. Implies superiority; patronising.
“I’m proud of you” is a loaded term.
Alternatives to saying “I’m proud of you”.
There are alternatives to praise and saying “I’m proud of you”, and they include:
- “Wow!! I’m so impressed!”
- “I love who you are!”
- “You must be so proud!”
- “I value you!”
- “I’m proud for you”
- “I’m so pleased for you”
- “You look really pleased with your effort”
- “Congratulations!”
- “I’m so proud to be your Mum/Dad!”
- “I believe in you”
- “I trust you”
I consciously have to stop myself from saying “I’m proud of you”. I believe the effort has been worth it – for my children, and our relationship.
the full article can be reached by https://www.parentskills.com.au/blog/three-reasons-avoid-saying-im-proud-you