Many very wise people have
said that each of us has a unique talent. I believe that’s true. I also believe
that MANY people have never searched, explored nor found theirs. Why not take
this time when your teenager may be going through some very rough
self-understanding times to help them to explore and identify and begin honing their
gift. I'll bet they've got one!
I had a friend in high school
who sat in the back of the room drawing cartoons and such. He’s now been on the
Art faculty at Ohio State University for many years.
Watch, observe, listen, ask
innocent questions, note where they go, what they do. Again, great minds tell us that all human
beings are achievers. If yours isn’t, you
may need to stir the pot [no pun intended].
Remember: ASK, DON’T TELL. Don’t lecture,
instruct, try to teach – unless they ask.
Suggest some ideas, opportunities,
activities.
Encourage just about
anything. If you see movement - support,
reinforce, compliment it. Remember – as much
negativity as you may see, realize it’s just a scared kid trying to establish themselves.
If you’re negative, what would you expect them to be?
CRITICAL ISSUE: if you have
given them anything and everything they’ve ever wanted or needed, why would you
question why they have no motivation? OF COURSE they don’t!
Don’t be afraid nor hesitate to take things away. There are three types of motivation: fear,
incentive, achievement. Each has a role.
Fear motivation may be needed now to instigate different behaviors. I once knew a father with a problem teen who,
step-by-step, took things away down to the mattress lying on the floor of his son’s
bedroom. His son was very stubborn. Sometimes, it takes that!
FIND THAT TALENT!!!
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