When is it that we lose our ability to be in the moment, to enjoy what is around us, and see the beauty of the world?
Why are we always in a rush?
As adults, we often find ourselves adhered to a busy schedule, moving from one thing to the next, sometimes without even stopping to be present because our focus is on getting to the next to-do item. While it is beneficial to teach our children about schedules and routines, it needs to be balanced with moments where we can just be.
If we let them, they can help us to get back in the moment. The next time they are dawdling, rather than rushing them along, ask them to share what they are doing. Take 10 minutes to see their excitement and to learn with them as they are learning about the world. These are the moments where children can teach us to be present and engaged.
When is it we lose our innocence and positive outlook?
When did we start worrying about all the things that could go wrong?
We gain experience and knowledge about life as we go through our own failures and disappointments. We are also taught about life through our parent's lessons about being cautious based on their own biases and fears. Though they have positive intentions, we as parents could benefit from not thinking about all the things that could go wrong and focus on all the things that could go right.
Children have an intuitive curiosity and excitement about the world. It's their natural ability to go and do things without worrying about what could go wrong, and they don't let fear or caution stop them from trying new things. If we can take a page from their book and remove the fear, just imagine what we could accomplish!
Watching children live in the moment as their authentic selves is one of the most refreshing things to see. It's no secret that being authentic, living in the moment, and enjoying our lives IS what life is all about.
Let our children help us find our joy, excitement, and authenticity.
