More often, parents do praise and motivate their children whenever a situation presents itself. CoachUp Nation shares how we can cheer our children on in a preferred direction by recognizing what we should actually be encouraging. The thought is that in place of emphasis on talent and outcomes, we should draw attention to effort, work, engagement in the process and failing even with effort.
Rearranging what we highlight, from the uncontrollable variables to controllable variables actually empowers your athlete. CoachUp Nation shares that "Athletes with a fixed mindset believe that their traits are just givens, and that they have to prove their talent each time they play or compete." Kids who are focused more on these uncontrollable variables tend to be prone to anxiety, extra added stress, and less positive attitudes around competition.
However, when athletes are more focused on things that they can control like effort, work, etc., they are imbued with a growth mindset. "The growth mindset is associated with having the fundamental belief that their abilities and outcomes are due to hard work (as opposed to mere talent)."
Your opinions as a parent really do count. When you rethink how you can praise your child, consider encouraging a growth mindset where your child can be incentivized to improve themselves with hard work and concentrated effort. This is not to say that praising your child for their talent and accomplishments have to cease but rather think of a balance where both types of praising will enhance your child's motivation to accomplish their goals.
Read more: Parenting Self-Motivated Athletes
Image Credit: Future Stars Camps Photos
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