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How One Simple Parenting Question Has Transformed My Life
Let’s be real—parenting can be quite the challenge. As parents, we’re tasked with shaping our kids into happy, healthy, and well-rounded individuals, often without having fully mastered these traits ourselves. It’s a tough job filled with on-the-job training, and I certainly came into it feeling unprepared.
However, I’ve discovered a little trick that has made my parenting journey much smoother. It revolves around one straightforward question that not only guides my decisions as a parent but also helps me become a better person. This question acts as a gentle nudge to my moral compass, helping me navigate daily challenges. So, what is this magical question? It’s simple: What would I advise my kids to do?
My little ones, like my son Jason and daughter Mia, prompt me to answer this question countless times each day. For instance, when Mia tries to pick her nose for the umpteenth time, I remind her, “No boogers!”—a lesson about hygiene that I hope sticks. And when Jason can’t resist teasing his sister despite my warnings, I send him to his room so he can learn the importance of listening and self-control.
But it’s not just about teaching them how to behave; it’s about how I respond to life’s curveballs. I’ve realized that my kiddos are watching my every move, absorbing my actions more than my words. If I want them to thrive, I need to lead by example.
So when I face a tough decision, I imagine I’m giving advice to my future adult children. For instance, if a frustrating work email pops up on a Friday evening, would I want Jason to ignore family time for it? Absolutely not! I’d suggest he take a break, enjoy the moment, and tackle the email with a fresh mindset later. Just a few months ago, I might have let that email consume my weekend, but now I think, What would I tell my kids to do?
Similarly, if Mia wanted to pursue a passion and didn’t see immediate success, would I tell her to quit? No way! I’d encourage her to keep pushing forward, to learn from setbacks. This shift in perspective has been a game changer for me.
Reflecting on my past, I have plenty of choices I’m proud of and a few I’d never want to see my kids replicate. Now, when I need to decide between being positive or negative, mature or childish, I pause and ask myself: What would I tell my kids to do? This simple inquiry leads me to the right choice more often than not. Sure, I’m not perfect, but none of us are! That’s a lesson worth sharing too.
I know my kids might not always listen, but I hope they’re learning by watching.
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Summary:
Parenting is a challenging yet rewarding journey. By regularly asking myself, “What would I tell my kids to do?” I’ve found a guiding principle that helps me make better decisions, model positive behavior, and learn from my experiences. This approach not only supports my children in their growth but also encourages my personal development as a person.