Empower young people by narrating the value of responsibility in adulthood.
Foster autonomy in children by entrusting them with increasing responsibilities and maintaining supportive guidance.
Deep dives
Definition and Challenges of Adulting
Adulting is described as the phase between childhood and adulthood where individuals are responsible for managing their lives independently. Parents face the challenge of transitioning from being primary caretakers to letting go and preparing their children for independence after high school. This shift requires a delicate balance between freedom and responsibility, where parents need to gradually relinquish control and empower their kids to fend for themselves.
Effective Communication Between Parents and Kids
Parents are advised to set clear expectations and communicate responsibilities to their children to foster autonomy and confidence. By entrusting kids with increasing responsibilities starting from chores to appointments, parents demonstrate trust in their capabilities. Maintaining a supportive and encouraging tone while guiding kids helps them understand the correlation between freedom and responsibility, fostering essential life skills and self-reliance.
Adopting Principles for Improv and Design Thinking
Encouraging a bias towards action and embracing imperfection are key principles for navigating challenges and moving forward. By focusing on taking steps and learning from experiences, individuals can overcome feeling stuck and gain momentum. Embracing the concept that 'good is great' alleviates pressure and fears of inadequacy, promoting progress and growth in various aspects of life, including relationships and communication.
“Communication is such a delicate dance and kids need to emerge from childhood having practiced,” says Julie Lythcott-Haims, former associate vice provost of undergraduate education Stanford University.
In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, lecturer and podcast host Matt Abrahams sits down with Lythcott-Haims to discuss her new book, Your Turn: How to be an Adult, and ideas on how to communicate with young people so they feel empowered to take on the various (and often intimidating) duties of adulthood.
“Responsibility isn’t a bad thing,” she says. “Responsibility is actually an amazing thing. And I think we have to do a better job of narrating that truth.”