Jump to content

Menu

Looking for the origin of "Bean dip anyone?"


Recommended Posts

Yes, I am the original author.

 

My site, which has been static since my divorce, has been compromised. I plan on developing a new site, but I now have additional ethical and policy concerns.

 

I also plan on a bit more editing. ;)

 

Joanne, I have this content:

 

I've found new moms often confuse boundaries and trying to convince someone of the *rightness* of their choices.

 

The best thing is to assert your boundary and *not* try to defend your choice.

 

Some family and close friend help.....

 

First, I learned early on that most of my choices were on a "need to know" basis. Most people don't "need to know". If asked "how is the baby sleeping?" Answer: Great! Thanks for asking! Want some bean dip?

 

"Are you sure you should be picking her up every time she cries?" Answer:"Yes! Thank you! Want some bean dip?"

 

"When do you plan to wean" Answer: "When she's ready. Thanks! Want some bean dip?"

 

Now, with some people you will need to set *firm* boundaries. They will need to be backed up with action (like hanging up, leaving the room or even the event). If it's a pattern of intrusion, for example. Practice kind but firm responses:

 

"I know you love us and the baby. We are so glad. Our sleeping choices have been researched and made. I will not discuss it again"

 

Also, don't confuse setting boundaries with trying to convince someone of the rightness of your choices. New AP moms often struggle with this. The boundary is that no one else has a right to tell you how to parent and create a hostile environment. You set boundaries by doing the above. Where new moms often invite problems is by citing authors, studies and sites to "defend" themselves. Each time you do so, you create more time for discussion and rebuttal and send the message that your decisions are up for debate. Don't defend your choices beyond generalities, and then only once or twice. "The doctor is in support of our choices. Want some bean dip?"

 

Finally, look them in the eye and say simply "I want us to have a good relationship. I want you to *enjoy* the baby. I'll parent the baby - you enjoy them. Let's not discuss this anymore. If you bring it up, I will leave the room."

 

Would you mind if I use the idea in a blog post I'm writing? I'd love to give you credit. What would be the best way for me to do that so that you feel honored but that your privacy is not compromised?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

It is an old saying. I heard it long before frequenting this board.

 

But locally it is attributed to Joanne.

 

Pass the Bean Dip "might" be an old saying, along the lines of "How about those Mets!" ;)

 

But "Pass the Bean Dip" is actually a shortened way of referencing a longer process of boundary setting which is my material.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Joanne, take a look at my post and let me know if there's a way I can give you credit. Here's the link: http://www.cindyfinley.com/2012/11/bean-dip-anyone.html

 

Thanks!

 

Well, that is not the real "Bean Dip" strategy, it's simply changing the subject.

 

But if you ARE going to mention here, it kinda becomes a reference to me/Bean Dip, you know?

 

You could simply say that long time member Joanne from TWTM boards has a known way of helping with boundaries.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

 Share

×
×
  • Create New...