AD| When it comes to teaching your child about working hard and being determined, it doesn’t mean that their life should be all work and no play. It’s more about instilling a sense of optimism for the future, emphasising the fact that no goal is out of reach as long as they are willing to put in the effort. It’s about helping them feel confident enough in their abilities that they are eager to pursue their dreams and lead a fulfilling lifestyle. There are lots of things you can do to help encourage this positive approach to life, as explored below by a private school in Abingdon.

Focus on the Effort Over the Accomplishment

Hard work is all about the effort that goes in, as opposed to the outcome. With that said, when you see that your child is truly trying to succeed at something, be sure to praise them. If you always focus on the end result, they will only be disappointed if things don’t go to plan. However, if you focus on the effort that they’ve put in, they will be more inclined to continue working just as hard in the future. 

Try and be specific with your praise as well. Vague remarks like “well done” won’t help them understand what they’ve actually done right. On the other hand, if you say something like “Well done for spending so much time revising for your exam, I’m really proud of you for putting in the effort”, they will understand specifically what they should continue doing going forward. 

Lead By Example

As with most things, the way you behave will show your child how they should behave. Let them see you working hard on certain things, whether it’s related to your career or something more personal and explain to them what you have been able to achieve by putting in that effort. Ask them if they know what would’ve happened if you hadn’t tried as hard, to test their understanding and home in on the message you are trying to achieve. 

Talk About Successful People

If your child has a favourite singer or movie star, or just a friend or relative whom they admire, be sure to talk about that person. Discuss what they have had to do to achieve their goals and why they are so admirable. If your child has someone they can look up to, they will be encouraged to pursue their own goals.