How to Raise a Successful Adult

Empowering Kids to Fix Things and Become Successful Adults

Teaching kids to be resourceful and capable individuals is a fundamental aspect of preparing them for adulthood. Here are some essential principles to help raise children who grow into successful adults:

1. Encourage Them to Fix Things

Robert Stephens, the founder of Geek Squad, became a successful entrepreneur because of his early curiosity and willingness to fix things. Encourage your child’s curiosity and desire to tinker with items around the house. If something is broken, use it as an opportunity to teach them how to fix it. If you don’t know the solution, research it together. Learning how to find information is as valuable as knowing it from the start.

2. Teaching Any Skill in Four Steps

Helping your child acquire new skills can be broken down into four simple steps:

1. You help them out: Provide guidance and demonstrate how it’s done.
2. They do it with you: Encourage them to participate alongside you, offering support and instruction.
3. You see what they do: Observe their progress as they attempt the skill independently.
4. They do it themselves: Empower them to complete the task on their own, fostering self-reliance and confidence.

3. Prioritizing Love and Chores

Two vital components in parenting are love and chores:

• Chores: Studies reveal that individuals who excelled in their careers often had childhood experiences with chores or part-time jobs. Chores teach children the value of hard work, teamwork, and contributing to the greater good.
• Unconditional Love: Expressing unconditional love to your child is crucial. Avoid offering love solely based on their achievements; instead, let them know they are cherished no matter what. Just as you desire unwavering love, your child needs the same assurance.

4. Instill Courage to Face Challenges

Foster your child’s self-confidence and resilience by encouraging them to tackle big, real-life problems. Empower them to believe in their capabilities, even when faced with seemingly impossible tasks. Engage in meaningful conversations about leadership and problem-solving, helping them see opportunities in every challenge.

5. Ask the Tough Questions

Promote independent thinking and decision-making by not making all choices for your child. Instead, ask them the hard questions to stimulate critical thinking and self-reflection. Encourage them to learn from their experiences and make informed decisions, even if they occasionally make mistakes. This approach will nurture their ability to assess risks and make wise choices.

In summary, empowering children to fix things, acquire skills, prioritize love and chores, face challenges, and think independently is the foundation for raising successful adults. By instilling these values and skills, you’ll equip your child to become a capable, resilient, and self-reliant individual ready to tackle the challenges of the future.