Try your best to put yourself in the mindset of when you were a child in school. Whether that be elementary, middle, or high school, do you remember what it was like? When nothing about your future was certain and the endless possibilities of “Who am I?” occupied your mind every night before falling asleep?
Every child goes through this phase, and for most people, you’re likely still going through this. It’s part of what makes being alive so great: you can change your path at any time.
Now that you’ve put yourself back into your child body, with all the worries about upcoming tests, which person you have a crush on, and which college you’re going to attend, we’d like you to try and remember how difficult it was to know where to start. Because, for your child, regardless of their age, they may not know the answer to that question, or how to go through the process of self expression.
Every child has their interests and passions, just as you did when you were their age. Rather than asking them “What do you want to be when you grow up”, wouldn’t you rather help start them on a path that doesn’t lead to one destination, but helps them understand their options? Helps them actualize their current life goals using their existing strengths? Expands their interests and even introduces them to concepts that could become life-changing for them as adults?
Okay, you can return to being a parent now. Hopefully you’ve remembered some of the struggles that your child may be feeling when it comes to considering their future. We know that you want your child to succeed in life, but do they? How can you help them discover who they want to be through their own self expression?
Setting Realistic Goals with Your Child
We know how difficult it can be to get your child invested in their future. Because it’s so nebulous to them, they can have a hard time seeing it as important. That’s why it’s helpful to narrow it down for them in tangible ways. You can kindle an interest in your child’s future by getting them excited about their current interests and how they can turn those interests into valuable skills.
Even more than wanting your child’s success, you also want their happiness. There is no better way to ensure your child’s future happiness than by teaching them how to become the best version of themselves using skills they already have. You can start this process of self discovery and growth by setting realistic, attainable goals.
