Your Teen IS NOT LAZY I Teen Parenting I Decision Fatigue I Dr. Nivedita Ganguli

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Decision Fatigue: When a Teen’s Brain Says ‘I Can’t Decide Anymore’”

4 Quick Parenting Hacks
A parent told me yesterday,
“My son makes smart choices… but last night I simply asked, ‘What do you want for dinner?’
He said with irritation in his voice, ‘I don’t know… anything…’ and looked exhausted.” I was happy that the mother noticed, and thought to empower herself with PARENTING LESSONS.
Such behavior in teens may not be attitude.
That may be Decision Fatigue — a teen’s brain running out of mental fuel after a long day of choices, pressures, and expectations.
Common Signs:
• Silence over small things
• Constant “I don’t know”
• Tired, forgetful, irritable
• Delaying or avoiding decisions
• “Later” that never happens
This may not always be attitude or laziness.
4 Quick Hacks for Parents
1. Simplify Routines
Small routines save big energy.
Tip: Choose next-day clothes at night → one less morning decision.
2. Give Space, Not Pressure
“Tell me when you’re ready to discuss the project” works better than pushing immediately.
3. Offer Emotional Presence
Don’t jump to fixing their problems.
Just say: “I’m here if you want to talk.”
4. Respect Rest
A short nap or music break is recovery, not laziness.
Say: “Rest a bit, then continue with fresh energy.”

Closing:
Teens are figuring out life in their own way.
Your trust, patience, and emotional safety make their journey easier.
Less pressure, more trust. That’s the real support.