As parents, we hold an incredible amount of responsibility in raising our children. Everything we say and do plays a role in who they become. Of course, I think we all try to be the best we can and raise strong, kind, good-hearted children. But, I also think we should always strive to be better. This post walks through 10 tips to being more mindful in parenting and how to parent with purpose.

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INTENTIONAL PARENTING – 10 TIPS TO PARENT WITH PURPOSE

1)     USE POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Teach your child the strength of your words. Show them how our thoughts can become our reality. Teach your children the power of positive thought and affirmations. Continue to use words of affirmations like you are so beautiful, handsome, and smart, but also add in others like strong, independent, a leader, brave, compassionate, generous.

2)     BE PRESENT

Put the phone away. Turn off the TV. Close your laptop. Give your child your 100% attention. Look them in the eyes when they talk. Study their mannerisms. Capture all that they have become. You are their world; show them that!

3)     DON’T LET YOUR PERCEPTION BECOME THEIR REALITY

Don’t limit your child based on your thoughts. Let your child have big dreams, and don’t crush them. Be mindful of your words and the power that you have as their greatest influencer. Your child may ask to live in a castle one day, or be the president, or be a movie star. Don’t say “no” or “that’s not going to happen”. Rather teach them that anything is possible and if they want it, and will work for it, they can make their dreams become their reality.

4)     TEACH THEM GRIT

There will be struggles in life. Allow your child to understand what a struggle is and learn the skills they need to overcome them. Teach your child how to problem solve. Teach them the power of persistence. Teach them not to fear failure, but rather to learn from it. Teach them how to have courage. Teach them tenacity. Teach them resiliency.  Create challenges for your child to learn how to overcome.

5)     RESPOND, DON’T REACT

Be mindful in how you respond in situations of struggle or disdain. Use both your conscious mind and unconscious mind in your responses. Synthesize the situation and consider the impact of your words and actions on others before responding.

6)     INSTILL GRATITUDE

Rejoice all of the blessings you have. Show thankfulness for all of the material and non-material items you have. Teach your child to feel humbled by their blessings. Teach your child to appreciate all that they have rather than lust for more. Show your child how to recognize others and be thankful for their contributions.

7)     EXPOSE THEM TO NEW THINGS

Show the world to your child. Create adventures. Instill confidence in your child to eliminate discouragement and fear of trying new things. Focus on the journey rather than the outcome when trying something new. Encourage curiosity. Foster a sense of excitement. Praise them when they have the courage to try something new, regardless of the outcome.

8)     SHOW THEM YOUR FEARS (and how you overcome them)

Remember that you are your child’s idol, their hero. Show them that everyone has fears. Teach them that fear is normal; even a good thing. Teach them that fear is an emotion and that it’s our reaction to fear that may be the issue. Show them that fear is not weakness. Teach them that bravery doesn’t exist without fear. Tell them about times where you have had fear and how you overcame it. Share with them all of the new and exciting experiences that wouldn’t have been possible without pushing through your fear.

9)     REPLACE CAN’T WITH NOT YET

Can’t is a limiting word. Teach your child that you can do anything you put your mind to. Teach them to say “I can’t do that, yet.” or “How can I do that?” Show them that they may not be able to do something yet, but with time (and practice) they can do anything.

10)  SHOW THEM LOVE

Show your child endless, unconditional love. Teach them how to open their heart to others. Show them affection. Tell them you love them, but also tell them why you love them. Show them how to love yourself.

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