We all want our children to grow up to be diligent and hard-working, and there is much we can do as parents to encourage them to try their best in everything they do. Ability is not set in stone and it’s important children realise they can influence the outcome of their endeavours through applying themselves with commitment and consistency. Here a private sixth form in Surrey explores some of the things you can do to raise a hard-working child.
Praise effort rather than innate traits
If our children think they are inherently good or bad at certain things, they may not feel motivated to step out of their comfort zone or challenge themselves in different ways. Try not to only praise them when they do well in something they’re naturally good at; commend any effort they make at trying something they find a bit more difficult and when they do achieve something focus your praise on how they got there, i.e. through persistence and hard work. That way they’ll understand that they have control over the outcome of their actions.
Embrace failure
Encourage your child to see mistakes as opportunities for learning, rather than signs they’re just not good at something. If they’re too afraid of failing, they might not even want to attempt challenges or find the solutions to problems. Help your child see that mistakes are part of the process of learning and achieving, and should be embraced rather than avoided at all costs. Understanding this will help your child adopt a positive mindset and hard working attitude which will stand them in good stead throughout their life.
Cultivate resilience
Help your child learn healthy coping strategies and ways to bounce back when they do get something wrong or fail. Brainstorm ways they can take a step back, look at the big picture and reevaluate. This will encourage them to be proactive in the face of challenges and problems, rather than feeling defeated.
Be a good example
The best way to raise a hard-working child is to model it yourself. Make sure your child sees you applying yourself diligently to problem-solving or overcoming hurdles. Try not to complain too much about how hard things are; instead, adopt and express a positive approach to life, whatever happens. Explain how you work hard for the things you have like your home and the opportunities to do fun and exciting things. Your child will see that these things don’t just land in your lap – they have to be earned.
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs. Specialising in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and parenting, Debz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to every guide. Her mission at Stereotude is to simplify the modern world for her readers through expert curation and fiercely honest advice.