There are certain trends I've seen with teenage kids over the last 10 years that scare me.
One big one is a decreasing ability to become and remain Steadfast.
Steadfastness reflects the ability of your child to remain resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering.
You can be steadfast in a belief, an effort, a plan, or even a refusal (an important one to avoid the pitfalls that middle, high school, and even college bring about).
There are a 2 reasons why so few kids have this admirable trait that is absolutely necessary to be successful and to avoid regret:
1. They do not become steadfast because they have no convictions. They have no convictions because they are unconvinced.
They do not have strong enough mentors and coaches in their lives who not only walk the talk, but also teach them and ultimately influence them to establish their own set of core values, principles, "rules for life", and commitments.
It is from our core convictions that we steadfastly resolve to stick to our guns, rise above the crowd, give our best despite the possibility of being ridiculed, and choose be great.
2. They do not remain steadfast because aside from mom and dad, they are accountable to no one.
Most kids nowadays just want to make their coaches and mentors proud of them for their physical performance. Which is no surprise seeing as how human beings strive to be consistently great at the things that are recognized and rewarded. I write about this extensively in my book The Youth Truth.
But when they have a coach whom they respect who is all about developing a Resilient Mindset and Impeccable Character, for example, they become accountable for things they never valued much before.
So, what are the solutions?
#1 Focus on this word for the rest of the week: STEADFAST. As a parent or coach, our simplest (but sometimes most challenging) step is to check ourselves and ask, "are there any areas or commitments that I have not been resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering in?".
#2 Book a Success Session for your son or daughter. Athletic performance enhancement + mindset and character. No matter where you are in the world, your child can now have their life transformed by a mentor-leader at PFP. Click to learn more about a Virtual or In-Person Success Session for your student.
#3 Grab the 2 Part Becoming Unshakeable Masterclass, plus many bonuses, for over 50% off.
Serving you,
Coach Andrew
