Whether your teen needs a motivational push or someone to lead them in the right direction, there are many ways parents can help their teens stay focused. Here are four tips to help your teen reach their goals and be the best they can be.
Join In On The Fun
It’s one thing to cheer your teen on from the sidelines, but why not get in there and join them? If your son wants to make the baseball team, toss the ball around in the backyard after dinner to help him practice. If your daughter has her heart set on a certain college, help her with her applications or her studies. Getting involved is a way to show them your support and has the added benefit of allowing you to spend quality time with your teen.
Photo by eekim Come Up With a Plan
Your teen may know what they want to achieve but are not sure how to get there. Work with them to create a plan of steps they need to take to reach their goal. Breaking the steps down will make the task seem less daunting and more possible. Plus, checking off a box every time they get one step further will increase their self-confidence and sense of accomplishment.
Figure Out What Their Goals Really Are
Your teen many not realize what their goals really are, but you can help them solidify their ideas. If your daughter is interested in helping others, recommend volunteering at a hospital, school or care center. If she enjoys working in this environment, look into college programs for nursing, teaching or social work. Help your teen explore their future options with present opportunities.
Get Feedback
Asking others for feedback is a great way to progress and reach goals. Seeking out additional help and advice from other authoritative figures in your teen’s life, such as coaches and teachers, is beneficial, even if your teen is getting good grades or excelling at sports. That extra bit of initiative shows that you care and are willing to go the extra mile.
