You may have noticed that since you became a teenager, you are having a tougher time getting along with your mom. You probably don't even know why the two of you argue so much. But one thing is certain: you fight much more than you ever did before.

Something happens between a mother and her daughter, when the daughter reaches adolescence. A power struggle often occurs with you pulling away from your mother in order to find your own way and gain greater independence while your mother holds on tighter because she feels like she's losing her little girl. This power struggle is completely normal and happens to just about every mother and daughter. But try to remember that things are just as hard for your mom as they are for you. In her eyes you're growing and changing so quickly that she doesn't know what to do. In your eyes you just want her to leave you alone so that you can do your own thing.

Even though you are starting to find your own voice, don't shut your mom out completely because you still need her. Maybe not so much to protect you but to guide you and show you what it takes to become a responsible and strong young woman. So cut her some slack. The constant fighting won't last forever. Believe it or not, there will probably come a time when you and your mom will be closer than ever before. Although your mom may seem a bit overbearing (ok maybe a lot) keep in mind that your mom is doing the best that she can and she really does want what's best for you.

This article is excerpted from Cassandra Mack's book, "Cool, Confident and Strong: 52 Power Moves for Girls."