To be a successful stepmom, do what successful stepmoms do.
Karen called to tell me that her relationship with her stepdaughter had gotten much better after several years. “What did you do to get there?” I asked. Her advice was gold: Remember that kids have a different perspective than you, so don’t take everything personally, she said. Never talk negatively about their biological mom and know your place. You’re not the parent so don’t try to push your way in. Be their friend first and it will grow from there. Bottom line: Just love them as best you can.