As parents, we often underestimate how much influence we have over our children. And whether we want to acknowledge it or not- the words we say to our children will one day be their inner voice.
If you accept this fact, you can use it to your child’s advantage. How? Well, you can either choose to say words that will belittle them, scare them and make them feel perpetually small- or you can use phrases that empower them to live the best life possible. To some, this might seem outlandish- but even if it does, what harm can it cause them for you to speak kindness and motivation into their spirit?
Here are ten phrases that will change your child’s life.
1. Be grateful for every moment you have.
Gratitude is so important in this life. A grateful heart is often a happy heart. And all cliches aside, we are not promised anything in this life- so we should be grateful for every moment. While this phrase may not immediately sink in it will one day.
2. Treat others the way you wish to be treated.
My mother always stated this Golden Rule to us growing up. When she first said it, I didn’t fully understand it, as I was a toddler. However, now, it’s something that reverberates throughout my mind on a daily.
3. Always give your best.
While no one is perfect- we can all strive to do our best. Remind your little one that no matter what it is they are trying to accomplish, no matter how big or how small the task is- to always give their best.
4. Appreciate the little things.
When you are teaching your child how to be happy- you may want to have them aim high, and there is nothing wrong with that. However, don’t overlook the need to appreciate the little moments as well. Because when it comes down to it- those are the moments in which we will find our greatest happiness.
5. Don’t ever settle.
A lot of us grow up thinking that we don’t deserve more – and so we settle. We get exhausted from the effort to obtain what we want- so we settle. Make sure your little one knows that no matter how long it takes, no matter how much effort it takes- to always reach for the stars.
6. You can always start over.
When I was younger, I was so terrified of failure. Failure was so scary to me, that I would do anything to avoid it. I wish someone would have reminded me more that no matter what- you can always start with a blank canvas.
7. You don’t have to have it all figured out right now.
Kids feel the pressure that the world places on their shoulders. Beginning even in elementary school, there is the pressure to ace their exams and make the best grades. Then, in middle school, we add even more pressure, reminding them that high school is not far away and that they need the best grades to get into their dream college. Then, in high school, we tell them to pick a path and move that way. This pressure can cause them to feel stuck- unsure of where to turn, terrified of making the wrong choice. Please remind them that it’s okay to not have it all figured out they are kids and there are many chances in life.
8. Don’t allow others to steal your joy.
In life, we can take the path of the victim or the path of the survivor. When we allow the words and actions of others to determine our emotions- we take the path of the victim. Remind your little one that they are the ultimate decider of how they feel and to now allow others to steal their joy.
9. Do not give up on your dreams.
We are often told in life that if something is too hard, we should take another path. But, in reality, anything worth having is going to be hard. Instead of encouraging them to give up, teach them to never give up.
10. I am always here for you.
It might seem like common sense- but your kids need to hear the things you assume they understand. You might think they know you are here for them- but when you tell them all of the time, they will realize that you mean it.