Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
Children see the world from a magical perspective of wonder that is truly amazing. Every new experience is intense and dramatic, feeding their curiosity and desire to understand. However, as we age, this “magic” transforms into tasks, work, and worry. Have you ever noticed how just being around children can change your perspective about life? Well, I have. And I can tell you that their passion is infectious in a positive way. Here are just 4 life-affirming attributes of working with children.
Life-Affirming Attributes Of Working With Children #1: They Make You Laugh
Kids often do the unexpected. They’re not yet stuck in the mental patterns and boxes that most adults live in. Their ability to find humor and be light hearted is off the chart. They even have an uncanny ability to smile and laugh when times are hard, such as during a health crisis. Think about how rewarding it would be to work with children as a pediatric neurologist or another health profession.
Life-Affirming Attributes Of Working With Children #2: They Teach Honesty
Kids haven’t yet been inducted into the adult cult of “being nice.” Whereas your coworker probably avoids saying anything negative to you, kids are up front and brutally honest. They teach us that holding back and even lying to avoid conflict is not always the best thing to do. In fact, you could use that honest kid to get better at your job, be a better parent, to help you not be so rigid all the time. Kids tell you like it is…even if it hurts.
Life-Affirming Attributes Of Working With Children #3: They Teach Us To See The Good In People
Seeing the good in people is the natural human state. It’s only when we’re constantly let down by the people we work with, our friends and our spouses that our views change. Working with kids makes you realize that there was once a time in your own life when you could really rely on people. You remember what’s important about the ones you love. Judgement takes a backseat to love, innocence, and harmony. Children aren’t born rude, prejudiced, judgemental, or hateful.
Life-Affirming Attributes Of Working With Children #4: It’s Personally Rewarding
Childhood is all about development. It takes years and many teachers to learn and be equipped for adulthood. The amount of growth an individual experiences in that time is staggering. For people who work with children, like clinical practitioners, teachers, coaches and scout masters, this can be incredibly rewarding. Our lives are enriched simply knowing that we contributed to that child’s life in a positive way.
I have never regretted my time working with children. My life would not be the same had I chosen another profession. No, it’s not always been easy, but it’s sure has been worth it. I will always recommend that every adult do some type of work with kids, whether it’s a career or a volunteer position.
