From the time our children are born to the time we see them last, we only wish the best for them. There is no love or bond more powerful than that of a parent and child. There might be disagreements and arguments but at the end of the day, the love we have for them rises above it all.
As a parent, our main desire is that our children succeed and outshine us in every way possible. That they take what we give them and turn it into something better. It is why we go out of our way to ensure that our children get the very best opportunities that we can offer them. And most parents start by offering their children the best schooling possible.
Photo by Mohit GuptaOur children are the future and, what better way to ensure that the future is bright than by giving them the highest form of education. For, without education, what are we? But does education only refer to the bookish kind? No, not always. Sure, formal education is essential and incredibly important but there are different kinds of education out there. Teaching your children to be kind, well-mannered and thoughtful are a few things that will help them thrive in life.
Sometimes, in our desire to see our children succeed we lose track of what they want for themselves. Very often parents try and fulfil their own dreams, that they couldn’t achieve for whatever reason, through their children. Perhaps it was financial constraints, the inability to migrate for further studies or family pressure that didn’t allow them to achieve the careers of their choice. Some parents feel that they have missed out on great opportunities and therefore want to give them to their children. However, the million-dollar question arises, does your child want the same?
Photo by Mohit GuptaYou might assume that your child is happy following along with the plan you have set for them since birth, but have you ever stopped to ask them what they want to do? Your child may have their own dreams and goals planned for their future but they are too scared or nervous to tell you about it. This is because very often, parents emotionally blackmail and manipulate their kids into taking a particular stream in college or heading in a direction that they see fit. As a result, the child is stuck feeling frustrated and annoyed at what they are learning.
Frustration can be quite a psychological killer. Your child might end up feeling small and unworthy because they can not live up to your standards. This stifles your child’s passion and happiness. They don’t enjoy their college or school life because of the constant pressure of studies and the need to be a topper.
Even if your child manages to ace their boards and eventually becomes the doctor or engineer of your choice, will they be truly happy with the life carved out for them? You might say that they’ll have job satisfaction and that happiness is a utopian thought, but no, it is just as important, if not more. In my opinion, a person’s mental well-being matters more than a fat paycheque. Yes, a lovely bank balance or high status in society is desired by many, but there are quite a few who are happier having simple jobs that they find more gratifying at the end of the day.
Photo courtesy Mohit GuptaA ceramic designer, tailor, chef or teacher may not make as much money as a doctor, lawyer, engineer or investment banker, but their creativity brings pure joy. When they see something as simple as clay come to life or watch their students excel in their exams, that is when they feel truly satisfied and content with their jobs. As a parent, you must accept that your child may not want the conventional jobs of your generation, especially now when there are so many options out there. Instead, you can help your child by guiding them to make the right choice for themselves rather than imposing your wishes upon them.
Let them realize their own dreams, not yours. After all, don’t all parents want what is best for their children? So, remember that what is best for your child doesn’t mean them fulfilling your dreams, it’s them fulfilling their own. As long as your child is happy and thriving, the career they chose doesn’t matter. Forget about what society thinks and embrace your child’s joy!
Written By Mohit Gupta
Week 18, April 21
