Parents have tremendous influence over their children, I know – shocking. It’s actually scary to think that we have the opportunity to shape them into the people that they will become as adults. Parents love their families dearly, and want to inspire your children to grow and find happiness. Part of this happiness includes finding their true calling, or their own purpose; providing them with their own guiding compass throughout their lives. As a parent, there are a variety of things you can do to help guide your child on this journey.
Encourage Their Interests
No matter how old your children are, they will show interest in a variety of things. It’s important to show your child that their interests are valid and also interesting to you (Hey dad look at me! Look! Look! Loooooook!). By encouraging their interests, children feel safe and secure to be who they are. This also gives them the confidence that they need to pursue a dream, passion, or goal. Try to use their interests to showcase their best qualities or strengths, make a difference, and to create new relationships. Encourage them to try new things and find new interests to boost their entrepreneurial qualities and ensure they’re never too scared to try something new.
Ask Questions and Really Listen
It doesn’t matter if your child is five years old or a teenager, they have thoughts and feelings. These thoughts, ambitions, and concerns should never be ignored. Ask your child about their interests, what they like or don’t like, and always be prepared to listen fully. Try asking your child more in-depth questions to give them the opportunity to explore their own personalities and feelings. By providing your child with a safe place in which they can discuss their interests, plans, and failures, they will be able to organize, process, and execute their life’s ambitions. By opening dialogue, you may help them discover their own passions for themselves.
Don’t Be Too Involved
It’s easy as a parent to become involved in every aspect of your child’s life. To help them find their true calling or their purpose, you must learn to take a step back. Along with the love you have for your child comes an equal amount of worry, which can drive you to unintentionally hold them back. Remember that part of growing and finding your own way involves trying, failing, and learning. As a parent, you should accept this and be there when your family needs you the most.
The Difference Between Purpose and Happiness
Leading a meaningful life and finding your purpose does not necessarily bring happiness all the time and it’s important to teach your child to understand the difference between the two. While happiness can bring you temporary satisfaction, it may feel differently than the type of joy that comes from leading a long fulfilling life. Following your calling does not bring infinite moments of happiness, and as a parent you must prepare your child for failure and encourage them to not be distracted by those fleeting moments of happiness.
I’d love to hear from you and about how you inspire your kids to find their calling!
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