Tanisha and Chetna have always had problems in their bedroom. They had massive tugs of war over things they both liked — a Mickey Mouse bedsheet their mother bought or a pencil box their father got them. At times the clashes even led to objects being destroyed. The trouble was that they hated sharing. If you find this a familiar story, then stop and think. Sharing is really one of the great joys of life.
Why sharing is good
‘Sharing means losing’ is a mindset many have. But think, sharing your stuff with your friends, cousins or siblings would double the fun element and make you more popular than ever!
To Dr. S.C. Arya, Chairman and Head, Department of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, Dr. B.L. Kapur Memorial Hospital, “Sharing is like eating good food from your friend’s lunch box, while you give him a bit of your food.” In the case of siblings, the benefits of sharing are greater. Gaurav and Saurabh, being of the same age, have the same size in clothes and shoes. “Since we share our T-shirts and shoes, our parents never stop us from buying more. Now we have five pairs of shoes, unlike my friend who (who doesn’t share with his brother) just has two!” reasons Gaurav.
How to keep the peace
But what if there are still clashes. Are there any remedies?
w To share or not to share: Whether it is an article of clothing a toy or even less tangible things like computer or phone time, set rules about sharing.
w Set guidelines: Set some ground rules in order to deter heated arguments.
w Get out there and speak: “If you think that you want to share something but can’t, then just speak to your sibling or friend. Make them understand your
problem. Sharing things with
people you know will make you happy. At the end it is important to have fun and be cheerful. Sharing always helps to make strong bonds of friendship,”
concludes psychiatrist Dr.
Samir Parikh.