A Daughter's Reflection on Her Parents' Unique Parenting Style

November 11, 2025 - 22:07

Michel Janse, 28, recently shared her thoughts on her upbringing and the unconventional rules her parents enforced while raising her and her sister. She described these guidelines as "weird," yet upon reflection, she recognized the intentionality behind them.

Janse recounted various practices that seemed odd at the time, but which ultimately fostered a strong sense of independence and critical thinking in her and her sister. For instance, her parents encouraged them to engage in open discussions about their feelings and decisions, allowing them to explore their own values and beliefs. This approach, while unconventional, instilled a sense of responsibility and self-awareness that Janse now appreciates.

As she navigates adulthood, Janse realizes that these "weird" rules were not arbitrary but rather a deliberate effort by her parents to prepare their daughters for the complexities of life. This newfound understanding has deepened her appreciation for her upbringing and the lessons learned along the way.