Your cart is currently empty!
Why I’m Raising Kids to Think for Themselves
When I was a kid, there was a clear expectation to conform—dress the same, enjoy the same music, and hang out at the same spots every weekend. This cycle of sameness continued all the way to graduation, after which we all scattered. Some went off to college, others jumped into the workforce, while a few of us were left wandering aimlessly. Yep, that was me—the one without a clue.
My childhood was spent mimicking others, adhering to societal norms, and polishing skills that were deemed essential. When I finally left school, I was completely lost. Higher education proved to be a battleground I didn’t win, and my teachers often let me coast through because I was the class clown who elicited pity.
You might think I’m writing this for the kids, but really, I’m trying to grab the attention of parents. Looking back, I wish my folks had pushed me a bit more, encouraged me to embrace my uniqueness, and nudged my creativity. That never happened.
Now, as a father of twin boys who are just six months old, I find myself constantly pondering their futures. What kind of people will they become? Will they face bullying, or will they be the popular kids? It’s natural for a dad to worry about his kids’ paths, but I’m not looking to micromanage. I just want to be there for them when challenges arise.
I aim to find the right balance: knowing when to push them and when to step back. While I recognize that everyone must forge their own path, I believe it’s a parent’s duty to guide them early on.
I don’t have a foolproof strategy for parenting, and let’s be honest, I’m still figuring it out. My main objective is to encourage my kids to stand out without driving them away. I will teach them that fear is a choice, and sometimes it’s okay to choose it. I want them to understand that fitting in doesn’t mean being true to oneself. Education is vital, but it can often feel nonsensical. Most importantly, I hope to be a listening ear, and I pray that I’ll have the wisdom to respond thoughtfully.
If you’re interested in exploring more about parenting and family building, consider checking out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. You can also explore other insightful topics like how to navigate your journey as a parent at this link.
To summarize, I’m committed to raising my boys as independent thinkers who embrace their uniqueness and face life with courage. I may stumble along the way, but my goal is to nurture their creativity and authenticity while being a supportive presence.