Why I don't push my kids to excel
Lots of parents move heaven and earth to get their kids to excel in some particular way.
Sports, arts, academics.
Time nor expense is spared to make this happen. Sacrifices left and right.
That won't be me.
Not because I don't love my boys enough. On the contrary. I love them so much that I don't want to sacrifice their childhoods to achieve something that I missed out on, just so that I can live vicariously through them.
Instead, I will strive to be the best role model I can possibly be for them, myself.
I believe this is the only way.
How can I inspire them to learn if I'm not constantly learning? How can I encourage them to face their fears if I never do it myself?
How can I expect them to do their best if I've clearly settled for mediocrity?
I can't.
If I want them to be fit, I need to be fit.
If I want them to be disciplined, I need to be disciplined.
If I want them to grow, I need to grow.
It's funny how parenting forums are overflowing with discussions on parenting styles, philosophies, and techniques; but almost all questions come down to "how do I get my kids to do X?"
I know my answer:
Lead from the front.