~By Anamarie Seidel
“I’ve tried three musical instruments. I didn’t like any of them so I must not be a music person.” Justine said over my shoulder.
I turned away from my computer and looked at her quizically.
“I don’t think that’s a true statement.” I said.
“What do you mean?”
“Until you’ve tried to play every instrument in existence, I don’t think you can say that.” I said. “What you are doing right now is creating a belief. Besides the fact that you love listening to music; just because you didn’t like three instruments doesn’t mean you aren’t going to pick up another one sometime that you may love. You may try the guitar and love it. And it might not even be until you’re 60!”
“Oh, ok,” and she went off to play.
What an amazing gift for me as a parent to be present the instant a limiting belief was being created and to reverse it! You are given these moments frequently. Are you actually hindering or helping your children? Are you feeling like you don’t know what to look for? You’ll be amazed how simple it is. Read on.
Look for those times that your children are telling you something negative about themselves. Go beyond saying, “That’s not true, honey,” because they most likely won’t believe you.
Ask them questions that help them realize that a lot more qualities are required before they can really make a negative statement.
“I’m not very good at soccer.”
You would respond with,“That’s a very interesting thought. Do you practice? …Do you practice every day? …Have you worked one-on-one with a coach? …Do you work with your friends practicing?, etc.”
As adults, we know that anyone can get good at anything if they practice enough. They may not be ‘amazing’ like our Olympic athletes, but they will be good. Help your children instill positive beliefs and you will be preparing them for an incredible life.
Helping you Parent OutLoud,
Anamarie Seidel
www.WhatYouDontFix.com
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