Be assertive and compassionate

Being assertive means saying how you feel and what you need but not hurting your parents. This includes maintaining eye contact, a sense of calm, being open to having a conversation, actively listening, monitoring your tone, an upright posture, and being direct.

However, also be compassionate, meaning you understand where your parents may be coming from and the difficulties they may be experiencing in letting go of the role they had for so long in your life.