As a parent, one of the biggest questions you may ask yourself is, “Have I done a good job?” The answer isn’t always found in academic achievements or financial success.
Sometimes, it’s the simple, everyday habits and attitudes that your adult children exhibit that tell you the most about your parenting skills.
In this piece, we’re going to delve into seven things that, if your adult children are doing, indicate you’ve raised them exceptionally well.
Let’s get started.
1) Demonstrating empathy
One of the most telling signs that you’ve done a stellar job as a parent is when your adult child knows how to empathize.
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. It’s the cornerstone of any healthy relationship and a vital part of being a well-rounded individual.
If your adult children can put themselves in other people’s shoes, comfort a friend in need or show compassion towards strangers, then you can pat yourself on the back.
You’ve successfully instilled one of the most important human values in them: understanding and caring for others.
But remember, empathy isn’t about agreeing with others all the time. It’s about acknowledging their feelings and perspectives, even if they differ from your own.
So if your adult child has mastered this quality, you’ve done exceptionally well in your parenting journey.
2) Financial responsibility
I’ll never forget the day my son came to me with a budget he’d created. He was only in his early twenties, just starting out in his career. He had carefully outlined his income, expenses, and even set aside a portion for savings and emergencies.
That day, I felt a sense of pride and relief. It showed me that he understood the value of money and the importance of planning.
Financial responsibility isn’t about amassing wealth or being stingy. It’s about making wise decisions with money, understanding the difference between wants and needs, and planning for the future.
If your adult child is making sound financial decisions and living within their means, it’s a clear sign you’ve instilled good habits and taught them well.
3) Respect for diversity
In a world where there are over 7,000 languages spoken and a myriad of cultures and traditions, respect for diversity is an essential quality. It’s more than just being politically correct; it’s about recognizing that every individual brings something unique to the table.
If your adult children value diversity, embrace differences, and respect everyone regardless of their race, religion, or background, then you’ve done a commendable job as a parent.
This ability to appreciate diversity not only makes them better global citizens but also enriches their personal lives by opening them up to new perspectives and experiences.
4) Ability to apologize
It’s not always easy to admit when we’re wrong. But being able to apologize sincerely when we’ve made a mistake is a sign of maturity and emotional intelligence.
If your adult children have the humility to say “I’m sorry” and make amends when they’ve erred, it shows that they value their relationships more than their pride.
This quality not only helps them maintain healthy personal relationships but also contributes to their professional success. After all, everyone makes mistakes – but it’s how we handle them that truly matters.
5) Lifelong learning
One of my proudest moments as a parent was when my daughter, a few years into her successful career, decided to take up a course in graphic design. She was already doing well in her field, but she wanted to learn something new, something that interested her.
Lifelong learning is about embracing the joy of acquiring knowledge for its own sake. It’s about understanding that there’s always something new to learn, regardless of age or career stage.
If your adult children show an enthusiasm for learning and personal growth beyond their formal education years, it’s a testament to the values you’ve instilled in them. It shows they understand the importance of adapting, evolving and continually expanding their horizons.
6) Resilience
Life isn’t always smooth sailing. There will be storms and rough seas along the way. Resilience is the ability to navigate these challenges and bounce back from adversity.
If your adult children can face difficulties head-on, learn from them, and come out stronger, then you’ve instilled a vital life skill in them.
Resilience doesn’t mean they won’t face hardships or feel the pain of life’s disappointments. But it does mean they won’t let these setbacks define them or deter them from their path.
7) Kindness
In a world where you can be anything, being kind is perhaps the most important choice one can make. Kindness is the capacity to act with consideration, generosity, and compassion towards others.
If your adult children treat others with kindness, not because they expect something in return but simply because it’s the right thing to do, then you’ve done an exceptional job as a parent.
This seemingly simple act is a powerful testament to their character and the values you’ve instilled in them. It shows they understand that true success isn’t just about personal achievements, but also about making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Final reflection: The heart of parenting
Parenting is often compared to a journey. It’s filled with moments of joy, fear, doubt, and immense pride. But at its core, parenting is about love and guidance.
Each of these seven markers – empathy, financial responsibility, respect for diversity, ability to apologize, lifelong learning, resilience, and kindness – are reflections of the values and lessons you’ve imparted.
But remember, the measure of exceptional parenting isn’t solely based on these markers. Each child is unique and their life path will be shaped by their experiences and choices too.
What truly matters is that they know they have been loved and guided well. That they carry with them your teachings and love as they navigate their own journeys in life.
As the proverb goes, “Roots and wings” – these are the greatest gifts parents can offer their children. The roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. If your adult children display these seven traits, you’ve indeed given them both exceptionally well.
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