I believe the key to having an “Imagine More” dream is to discover how you can use what you love to do to help other people. If we can help our children think through how they can use what they love to do to help others, it can help them get started in pursuing their dreams.
As parents, we know our children well and have a good idea of what they love to do. Children are also less jaded than adults can be and may be more open-minded about dreams being possible. At the same time, they may not think their favorite pastime is important enough to make a difference to others. We can encourage them to see the benefits to others of what they love to do, so they may have more confidence in themselves and be willing to try something new.
For example, a child may like to sing. They may enjoy singing around the house, but a next step may be to join an organized group like a choir. Rather than viewing their singing as just something they like to do, as parents we can help them see that their singing is actually a gift to the people around them. Just turn on music they like to remind them of the importance of people being willing to sing for the rest of us. Helping them view their singing as a blessing to others gives them a greater sense of purpose and confidence, which may carry over into other areas of their lives.
I have a son who collected Pokémon cards when he was in preschool. Later on in middle school, he traded collectible Pokémon cards with other collectors. Today, as a grown man he has built and grown a Pokémon card business, selling high-value cards to collectors. He has a vast collection of Pokémon cards and enjoys interacting with the young children who come with their parents to his trade show booth. He teaches the children about cards and lets them pick out a few free cards for their collections. The children love it, and he loves being able to encourage them. Even a simple pastime like playing with trading cards can end up helping other people.
What do your children enjoy doing? Even if they aren’t gifted in music, they may enjoy visiting with an elderly neighbor or walking their dog. Doing something helpful for a neighbor or family member can give our children a sense of fulfillment while building relationships. Older children who enjoy sports, music or art may be able to volunteer at a youth program to lead children in activities. Similar opportunities may be available at a local Senior center. Helping our children think of what they can do, no matter how simple the idea is, will help give them a sense of accomplishment and purpose while making a difference in the lives of others.
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About the Author: Stephanie Nelson is the founder of the Coupon Mom website, which launched the coupon movement that took America by storm in 2008. As a savings expert, Stephanie has appeared on many national and local television news shows, including Good Morning America, the TODAY show, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. Her entrepreneurial Coupon Mom concept started a national cottage industry of other “coupon moms” as she inspired women to start profitable websites in their communities. Her book The Coupon Mom’s Guide to Cutting Your Grocery Bills in Half was a New York Times bestseller. Stephanie currently hosts her podcast, Pivotal People.
