As I navigated the zoo that is Walmart on a Saturday afternoon, I crossed paths with a woman wearing a shirt that said, “I’m not a nag; I’m a motivational speaker.” I had to chuckle as I passed, thinking how nice it would be if nagging could truly be interpreted that way.
However funny the saying may be, it certainly points out a truth that I need to evaluate in my own life. Am I guilty of nagging my husband and my children?
According to the dictionary, nag means, “to annoy by constant scolding, complaining, or urging; to scold, complain, or find fault constantly.”
The words that I use with my husband should be those of encouragement and support, not complaining or fault-finding. As for my children, I can correct them with a loving attitude and without repeatedly harping on their offenses.
OK–so this post smacks me upside the head today. This evening my 12yo son & I had a small fight because he says I constantly 'get on his case' (interpret as nag).
You are SOOOO right that I need to watch out for this nasty habit and moderate my words and my tone.
Thanks, Sister, for the post!
Did she buy the shirt at Walmart?! LOL I was a "motivational speaker" earlier tonight 🙁 Thanks for reminding me to find other (nicer)ways to say what needs to be said. In my own defence, I had a terrible headache. I know that is no excuse.
Oh I looooove that t-shirt and I want one, hahaha! Nagging is such a hard habit to break. I think when we do it it's because we're feeling like they just aren't hearing us (or doing what we asked, lol!).
But, as you said, we can choose not to nag. We can choose to communicate in a more loving way, and maybe even take some steps so that we don't have to nag our kids. Thanks for linking up today!
If we're motivational speakers, can we start charging money for our "speaking engagements"?
Good encouragement today. You gave us great advice for starting a new week.
How interesting! I have learned to change my words to be more positive centered and forget about those things that a so small. But some view nagging in even being silent. My husband would tell me don't evn say it and I didn't say a thing.
MommaMindy,
I think charging money is a wonderful idea – wish I'd have thought of it! 😉
Wow, this was very convicting…ouch!! I haven't written on *speech* on my blog before too and how the words that come out of my mouth undeniably affect the entire household ~ for the better or worse. Thanks for this encouragement today! I needed it!
Oops…meant to say "I have written on speech"…