Facilitate an environment for your children to have a career that they enjoy

Many of us typically are in a career that we do not really enjoy (this includes me as well). We are just going with the flow. Let me give an example of what I mean by "career we enjoy". Think of Lebron James. He loves to play basketball and he makes money doing what he loves. I am not just talking about superstars. I am also talking about the teachers, doctors, nurses, engineers who love to do what they are doing. If one is lucky to be in this situation, then work is play! There is no stress in doing your job. Time at work passes off easily. This leaves abundant energy to take care of other important aspects of your life – family, health, hobbies, service and many more.

Do not loose heart if you are not in this position. Not all is lost! You have an opportunity to provide your children with the opportunity to do what they love. You will get lot of satisfaction when your child comes back and thanks you for providing them this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Many of us already know that it is a very bad idea to make your children go into a career that you love. Put in other words, forcing your children to live your dreams. Instead, you should encourage them to do what they love.

Many children do not know what they love to do unless they try it. For example, which sport does the kid love? My suggestion is to give them an opportunity to try all sports. They will like one for sure and then encourage them to try and excel in that sport. This is not just to become a professional sports person, but to allow them to find an avenue to de-stress and relax.

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Similarly, coming to career, let them try different fields, let them talk to experts in various professions and share with them research on the future of various career options. 

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Your job is done with this facilitation. It doesn't guarantee that the child picks a profession of their choice. But you will definitely have the satisfaction of doing your bit!