Dear Ronnie,
Being able to handle challenges life throws at you is something that must be learned. Unfortunately, many young adults have not learned how to handle those challenges. Read below for Dr. Charles Fay’s advice on this matter.
Give Your Kids an Emotional Insurance Policy
The most fortunate folks on Earth have a strong voice in their hearts, reminding them that they have what it takes to make it through the tough times. Because they possess this “emotional insurance policy” they face life with optimism instead of anxiety. They understand that the resources they have inside can never be taken away…and will always be at their fingertips when needed.
One of the ways we give our kids this security is by giving them as many life skills as possible. In days gone by, most children learned these skills by being heavily involved in the family economy. They learned how to unplug pipes, nail nails, screw screws, cure leaking toilets, cook meals, clean clothes, and wash dishes by helping their parents.
In today’s world, I find it quite sad: the vast number of bright young adults who know nothing about changing a tire, operating a washing machine, getting themselves unstuck from a snow bank, or using a phone book. People who lack these basic skills live lives completely dependent upon others…and lives full of anxiety. “What will I do if things go bad?” they wonder. “Who will take care of me?”
In my new book, Parenting Kids to Become What Employers Really Want…And America Desperately Needs, I share a variety of ways to give kids the gift of self-reliance. The first step involves making certain that they are learning along with you as you face life’s daily challenges.
Thanks for reading!
Dr. Charles Fay