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Teens And Self Worth
Some of the best things in life are full of uncertainty. Getting married, having a baby, moving to a new city, starting a new business etc etc. When we’re uncertain of our next move our self-confidence takes a hit.
Teens especially want to feel invisible because they’re unable to keep up with peer and parental expectations. By teaching them their own self-worth and the skill of adaptability, we allow them to learn to celebrate small wins and navigate uncertainty with confidence and resolve.
Teenagers are terrified of two things. They fear judgment of their loved ones and peers and are constantly worried about their privacy. As stake holders in their wellbeing, we need to empower them with our belief in their abilities and lend them an ear without judgment.
The Impact Of Adult Caregivers
The quality of young people’s lives is determined by meaningful relationships with significant adults in their lives parents, extended family members, teachers, caregivers, coaches, youth workers, mentors, and friends. Brick by brick, we must assemble opportunities for our children and ourselves to exchange ideas, learn and grow.
As adults, we’re also searching for our own self-worth, identity and respect. But, for a child looking up to us for safety and assurance, we can seem lost and confused. To lead the way of life for our children, we need to build credibility and show that we’ve got a handle on things.
A Great Role Model For Our Children
We all want our children to succeed, but we don’t seem to know where to start. Today’s parents have two jobs. Raising children in the real world of emotions and guiding them in the online world that’s constantly changing and evolving. We often feel like we’ve no control over things, asking ourselves, “Am I doing a good job at this parenting thing? Is my child going to be OK?”
Our goal must be to help promote their healthy development and reduce conditions that put them at risk for problem behaviors. This means we must encourage them to explore their own role in the community and understand what a meaningful life of contribution looks like.
Parenting must feel empowering, not overwhelming. We must lead our family with strategies that foster mutual respect, trust and compassion. Not fear, anxiety and worry. We must work towards closing the expectation gap at home and connect with our children before we communicate our rules.
Why leave parenting to chance? Take back the control.
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