My husband and I are living examples to our kids that it’s okay to have/strive for nice things in life. What we also have to remember is that our kids came AFTER all of the hard work or they are not privy to what goes on “behind the scenes” in life. While we want them to strive for success, we also have to be open and honest about how to get there. Here are 5 important lessons in life for my kids’ success.
Money
This is something that we’re working on with our kids because no one ever worked with me, when I was their age. We’re teaching them the importance of saving (even breaking down the different types of savings), giving to church, paying yourself and smart purchases versus impulse buying. It’s so important that even as kids they hear things about establishing credit, balancing an account and investing. You’ll be surprised how these issues will stick with them as they grow older.
Education
I’ve met a lot of people in my lifetime and it’s so remarkable to me how some of the most successful, happy and amazing people never even went to or finished college. This is such a debatable topic and personally, I don’t think it’s a black and white issue – it’s rather GRAY. If my child doesn’t want to go to college, then they MUST have an EDUCATED/RESEARCHED plan in place. My husband and I are products of higher education, so naturally, we are advocates of secondary education. However, college degrees don’t equal success or financial security. So, my lesson is that preparation and hard work are essential no matter what you do!
Happiness
I want so badly for my kids to not only grow up to be financially stable, but to also ENJOY what they do for a living and not have to work a job that pays the bills. I want them to be confident enough in themselves to not sacrifice their happiness for anyone else’s and to find it within.
Relationships
In life, relationships are important – all types: working, social, intimate, and spiritual. My lesson for my kids is to always bring something to the table in any relationship you have, and that you get OUT of a relationship what you put IN.
Good Work Ethic
Although, my kids are too young to work, I still tell them: “If you have a job, show up on time. If you say you’re going to do something, then follow through. Be good at what you do and strive to be your best. Remember that when you do well, it gets noticed. When you do a poor job…it gets noticed.” Always strive to do a fantastic job but don’t ever compromise your ideals and beliefs for the sake of a [career] opportunity.
BMWK: What other lessons can you add to the list?