Dear Parents,
Why worry over every developmental stage of your child’s life? You worry that your 2-year-old’s speech is not clear, but your friend’s child speaks perfectly. You worry that your child is not a social butterfly, doesn’t get birthday invites from school, is too forgetful, messy and careless. You worry about grades, lack of motivation, laziness, peer pressure, social media’s negative impact, mental health, physical well-being and career choices. You even worry about the opinions of friends and family, wondering where you went wrong, feeling guilt and shame, not wanting your child to go through the same thing you went through as a child. You worry about how your child will survive in this chaotic world, you worry about your own old age. You worry, worry, worry!
Let me share a story. When my friend first came to the UK, she asked me to accompany her to a print shop. I teased her for not knowing how to use the computer. She admitted, “My parents paid for computer training for me over six months, but I never took it seriously.” Today, she is a successful programmer, winning awards for her work. Another friend’s mother worried she couldn’t cook. Despite her mother’s efforts, she never learned. Now, she runs a successful restaurant.
Dear Parents, your worries are universal, not dependent on whether you’re rich or poor. It’s part of who we are. But it’s important to let child experience life and learn from it. Shielding them can hinder their ability to handle life challenges in adulthood. Here’s some good news: you and your child will be fine. Experimental Psychopathologist Graham C. L. says, “In life, everyone will face threats and challenges and will need to know how to deal with them.” I understand you want the best for your child. I also know that you have your own way of raising your child so, instead of worrying, ensure you equip your child with the right skill to survive the world and remember worry does not solve any problem.
Surprisingly, older parents often find the child they worried about most turns out to be the most caring and capable. Instead of worrying, I encourage you to reflect on your child’s positive behaviors to foster motivation for yourself. Studies show that 30% of our worries are genetic, while 70% stem from our childhood experiences. Parental worry can significantly influence how a child is raised, which is not what you want, right? I’d advise you to be a good role model, trust that your child will be fine, and enjoy your life to the fullest. Cheers to a less worrisome parenting journey.
Dear intentional parent, I’ll encourage you to say this to your child;
Dear Child, I will love and support you, my dear child, in every step you take. I will trust in your abilities and allow you to grow and learn from life’s experiences. I will focus on your strengths and encourage you with positivity. Together, we will face challenges with resilience and love, knowing that our bond is strong and unbreakable.
