Ambition and a focus on the future can be a source of great motivation for children, but they can also be a significant hazard, contributing to overwhelming stress and burnout. The key for parents is to help their children hold onto their hopes for the future without being crushed by the weight of them.
This delicate balance is at the heart of the advice from clinical psychologist Meghna Kanwat. On one hand, it’s important to support a child’s dreams. On the other, parents must help by setting “realistic goals and expectations,” ensuring that the path to those dreams is a marathon, not a sprint.
One of the biggest hazards is when future ambitions completely overshadow the present. Parents can counter this by teaching their children to find joy and meaning in their current experiences. The focus on balanced schedules, play, and ‘Non-Academic Days’ helps to ground them in the present moment.
Helping an adolescent “reflect on their values and priorities” is also crucial. This ensures their ambitions are aligned with their authentic self, rather than being driven by external pressure or a narrow definition of success. A purpose-driven ambition is far more resilient than a pressure-driven one.
By validating their ambitions while simultaneously grounding them in a healthy, balanced present, parents can help their children navigate this complex terrain. They can teach them to work hard for their future without sacrificing their well-being today, which is the ultimate key to achieving sustainable, long-term success.