If only we could see into the future when that pregnancy test turns positive. Dreams and expectations flood our minds. These dreams usually include false beliefs or expectations taking us down the road of disappointment. Here’s a few:
* they will live all of our lives
* they will be healthy and suffer no major illnesses
* they will be at the top of the class whether in studies, sports, or music
* they will want to take over the family business
* their rebellion in teenage years won’t take them down a path of destruction
* they will marry someone we get along with that treats them the way they deserve
* they will always live nearby
* they will be there to take care of me when I grow old
* I won’t have to raise my grandchildren
* I won’t have to bail my child out of jail
* my child won’t have fits in public, regardless of their age
* They will be able to live independently with the same standard of living as us
All of these beliefs come from focusing on our expectations, rather than focusing on being a steward of our child. In order to minimize our disappointments as parents, you might choose to focus on these things:not co
1. Influencing your child; not controlling them.
2. Spend time discovering your child’s unique traits and gifts
3. Steer and guide them instead of stifling their decision-making abilities.
And, most importantly…FOCUS ON being an example to your children.
If you follow these suggestions, it’s not a guarantee. What it will do, though, is help you mature to be a better example for your child. It also takes your eyes off of how your child is disappointing you, minimizing your disappointments.
What have you focused on to minimize some of your disappointments as a parent?
© 2015, Jena Fellers. All rights reserved.
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