In this day and age of constant improvement, further education and career progression we are continually busy to improve, learn and grow. We make sure that we stay on top of the latest developments in our careers, we acquire a coach at the gym or enrol for a cooking course. Yet, as parents, we do not have the same drive to develop and grow in the most important role of our lives. Here are ten reasons why you should consider upskilling as a parent.
1. This is the most important relationship in your life
Being a parent is arguably the most important relationship in your life. It is definitely the most important relationship in your child’s life, but you are the one with the power and means to make sure that it is a great and healthy relationship that will stand the test of time.
2. Parenting is much more than being the provider
Yes, you are the provider, but you should also ensure that you empower your child to take care of themselves.
You should ensure that your child develops reliance and the ability to solve their own problems.
3. Children should not have to recover from their childhoods
This has become a very popular meme on social media, but it is very accurate. We are, because of our parents! Let your relationship with your children be a good, healthy and positive relationship and not one that they need to recover from.
4. Parenting is more than being a nurturer
Nurturing your child is important but equally so is to ensure that you instil kindness, care, and empathy.
Ensuring that your child develops their emotional intelligence, will set them up for life. This will form the basis of all the relationships in their lives.
5. The parent-child relationship is the blueprint of all other relationships in your child’s life
If this foundation relationship is faulty, the odds are not good for other meaningful relationships. Equip your child for rewarding, meaningful relationships in their lives.
6. The roles will reverse
There will come a time in your life when you will need your child for emotional support and care. You owe it to your children that they fulfil this role because they want to and really care about you, and not out of obligation.
Taking care of parents should not be a begrudged act, it should be a willing and welcomed responsibility in your child’s life.
7. Being unaware of your power can damage this relationship
As parents, we have the power. Being oblivious to the impact and effect of that power can cause damage and unnecessary problems. It is important to understand the power you have over your children and the impact that it has.
Treating your children with respect will have a much longer and lasting effect.
8. Every generation has the responsibility to do better
We tend to do better than our parents and make sure that we do not make the mistakes that they made. Trying to do this on your own may not be the best idea, you owe it to yourself and your children to do everything better.
9. Be a role model
Upskilling as a parent and being the best that you can be will provide your children with a role model that will last a lifetime. Be the role model.
You owe it to them and yourself to do it in the best possible way that you can.
10. Upskilling as a parent will have a positive effect on all relationships in your life
Learning how to communicate with authenticity, care and empathy and how to truly listen to your child will give you the skills that will have a positive impact on all relationships in your life.
Written by Lynn Pretorius
Lynn Pretorius is a certified instructor of Dr Thomas Gordon's Parent Effectiveness Training. Feel free to contact her directly:
083 327 1177
Learn more: www.parents.co.za
Disclaimer: The information contained in this communication is not to be construed as medical advice. Consult a professional on any medical or psychological concerns. The articles and blogs are posted only as opinion or ideas, and are general in nature. The administrator takes no responsibility for any action or outcome a reader may make as a result of reading a post.