If you ask a child what they want to be in the future, you will be amazed at their innocent responses. The list includes doctors, pilots, engineers, teachers, lawyers, accountants and priests or movie stars. Did you know that parents contribute a lot to helping their children’s dreams happen? Children look up to their parents as counsellors, teachers, and mentors. If they are discouraged, they will be biased about certain careers, consequently making wrong choices. Children need guidance, inspiration and support so that they distinguish between right and wrong, learn from their mistakes and work towards pursuing their dreams. Don’t stop a child’s dream: Sometimes a child’s dream might seem unattainable because no one in the family achieved it, or it is hard or its reputation is that it doesn’t pay well. Regardless, support them and tell them that they can make it. If a child has a passion for something, count that as a step towards success. Never say never, remember even those who were successful were not born like that, they persisted. Give the child the benefit of the doubt, they might surprise you. Be your child’s example:If parents are successful and hardworking, they are setting a good example for the child. Children look to their parents a lot, so shape a child by advising them on how best they can achieve what they want. Help them take action:Even though a child has a million ideas, help them decide on what to focus on, especially when what they are good at is clear, so that they give it their all. Explain to them why that idea is the best. Parents should do research on a child’s career choice so that they know what they need to do to make their dream come true. Encourage children to have a plan, a timeline in which they hope to accomplish their goals. This will push them to work hard in order to fulfil their dreams and overcome hindrances. Success doesn’t come easily. If one is not determined, he/she won’t achieve their goals. Do what it takes to reach the sky, don’t just sit back and think that it will come easy. Put effort in it, read hard, avoid pessimistic people and most importantly, believe in yourself. If you don’t, who will? Parents should spare a minute of their time to see how their children are progressing. Resilience will help a child cope with setbacks but also, self-confidence should be key in fulfilling goals. Learn to manage time well by doing what is required at a specific time.
