Today at lunch I wanted Ellie to help by bringing some plates to the kitchen. She's normally very helpful, but today was feeling less than motivated...she just wanted a few more pretzels. In my infinite wisdom, I told her I would "pay" her three pretzels if she brought the plates to the kitchen. I laid three pretzels on the table and began to put away the rest of lunch. I turned my back and she had taken the pretzels, giggling and eating. With threats of "taking back" the eaten pretzels, a few tickles later, the hiccups came and she eventually did her job.
Upon reflection I saw that I broke the cardinal rule of any business transaction.
Work first...pay later.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
Ah yes... but what fun is motherhood if we ALWAYS follow the rules?
Bribery with pretzles....it happens often here. But mostly in an attempt to get Ruthie to finish her lunch.
Post a Comment