To be a good daughter, you must demonstrate to your parents that you love and respect them. There is no one way to do this because every family is different, but in general, this means that you should listen to your parents, be responsible and help out around the house, and be open, honest, and kind. Whether you’re trying to improve your relationship with your parents or make up for not being on your best behavior, being respectful is the best way to be a good daughter and show your parents how much they mean to you.
Talk to them when you’re upset, but call them again when you’re feeling better. In an ideal world, you wouldn’t call them sobbing that your life stinks and everything is terrible when the problem is mostly that you’re tired, but because these days are unavoidable, your parents want you to feel comfortable calling to vent, discuss, continue sobbing. They’ll be worried if you do, and they won’t know you’ve calmed down an hour later unless you call back to tell them.
Set and stick to your goals. Setting and achieving goals will demonstrate to your parents your commitment. Tell your parents about your goals and allow them to support you as you work toward them. You will show your parents that you are responsible and independent by achieving your goals. This will also help you form a stronger bond with your parents.
Spend time with them. Schedule some time each week to spend with your parents. They will value this time with you more as you grow older. Have a picnic in the park, go shopping, bowling, or simply take long walks after dinner. Spend time with them separately as well. Go out to dinner with your mother on occasion, and to the movies with your father.
Call your parents every week. Don’t forget to check in on your parents if you’re older and living away from home. Call them up and find out what they’re up to. You should also keep them up to date on important events in your life. However, you may become busy and not have time to call and talk for an extended period of time. When this happens, send your parents a quick text to let them know you love them and are thinking about them. You can also use this as an opportunity to schedule a phone call, Skype call, or FaceTime call.
Discuss major decisions with them as well. They bought a house. They changed jobs. They had children. They’ve essentially been there. You will ultimately make the best decisions for yourself, but by consulting them when making a major decision, you not only gain perspective but also demonstrate that you still value their opinions.
Introduce them to your colleagues. Demonstrate that you’ve moved on from any embarrassment you felt as a teen. You now believe it is critical that the people in your life get to know you. And the other way around.
Furthermore, take responsibility. Help around the house. Help them with their chores and take on additional responsibilities. If you have siblings, look after them and assist them with their homework. Inquire with them if there is anything you can do for them. Your parents would undoubtedly appreciate the extra assistance.
