Social media, like the internet itself, has the ability to connect people, share knowledge and improve our lives. Unfortunately, like the internet, social media has the ability to tear people down, create self-doubt and intentionally mislead.
We are forced to make hundreds of decisions every day; commit yourself to making the right decision every time, every day. Although a perfect record is not possible, you will eventually develop habits that will allow you, your family, and your community to flourish.
If we are not careful, our lives can become poorly controlled chaos where we see each other in passing as we are running out the door or jamming some fast food down our throats in order to check off the next thing on the list. So, how do we as parents re-take control of our lives and our family’s peace of mind while still exposing our children to a broad spectrum of experiences and activities? The key is to know that you have choices, you are in control of your schedule, and most importantly, your kids are depending on you to protect them from the chaos.
Asking for and bestowing forgiveness are critical skill sets that your children will require as they navigate the challenges that come with human interaction. If your children learn to be comfortable with both sides of the forgiveness coin, they will be happier and healthier adults who will be more likely to pursue their dreams and self-actualize.
Parenting is so much more than friendship. It is a responsibility to do what is right for the child, even when it means sacrificing ourselves or getting the cold-shoulder for a time.
Join us for an audio discussion about creating healthy relationships with your children on this episode of "Focus Fox Valley" with Haley Tenpas.
Young women in today’s world have many options available to them – they can literally be anything they want to be. As you weigh your options and pursue your dreams, consider motherhood as part of that path. You can create life and love in the process.
Make no mistake – life today is not easy, and we must do all in our power to equip our children with the skill sets they will need to survive and to thrive both as young people and as adults in an unknown future.
For those of us with kids still in the home, or still looking to us for insight and support, we must take the time to decide what type of lives we hope for our children, and then parent in a way that will make that life a possibility for them. We must parent today with that end-goal in mind. We must focus on the long-game and not get distracted by the pressures and influences of the popular culture.
Perhaps we can help our children to rediscover their amazing human potential and their purpose. Perhaps we need to look back to shows like Little House on the Prairie, or the Waltons, or listen to the stories of those who have lived lives of heroic selflessness.
