Why Your Presence Matters as a Parent: Understanding Its Importance for Your own growth too

I know its important to be there for my kids. I do not need anyone to tell me that. I know when they get older they will appreciate that I was there. I also know that it is another small way that I can show them a nod of support to their interests. However I have never really sat and thought about the impact that it has on me. Taking a moment to reflect on the impact it has on you can provide valuable insights into your own growth and fulfillment as a parent. How has being there for them influenced your own personal Journey?

Parenting is a continuous learning experience that shapes and refines ones character. The journey of supporting your kids not only benefits them but also contributes to your own personal and emotional development. Each child brings unique challenges and lessons, making you more adept and experienced in the art of parenthood.

I recently experienced The long car ride home after an athletic loss. I am watching the frustration turn to sadness in my 16 year old's big green eyes -and I am internally running through the pro's and cons of what is best to say. How not to turn this car ride into a silent killer of her desire to keep trying, to bounce back. How not to make my efforts to encourage her turn into some misconstrued idea that I am criticizing her. What to say so I can build her character through this- and not crush her. I somehow found the right words. I went home, and breathed a sigh of relief.

I celebrated the moment of effective communication. Then I sat and reflected on the the child that came before this one, on the loss for words I had in the past and how I kicked myself. I gently reminded myself of how far I have come and I realized how important just being their was for me- for my own personal growth. Parenting provides such a unique set of challenges that can enhance your resilience, problem solving, and interpersonal skills, contributing to your overall leadership abilities in life and you do not develop those without showing up. You do not develop those without being there, and actively being involved in all of the experiences.

Watching my Oldest daughter peek out of the curtains of the theater before a show to scan the audience for our faces was always a secret pleasure for me. I knew it fueled her confidence a little to feel the silent support from us. But what did that do for me? Yes, it gave me a sense of purpose in some small way, but what it really did for me is still resonating with me into her adulthood. It taught me how to be the support person. It helps me in my day to day life with my husband and colleagues.

I am that person that can be there for others when they need it, and I can feel joy in others success, not just my own. Being there on the sidelines for so many years allowed me to feel so many ups and downs for someone else's success. Mom's are truly the champions of supporting others and that is built on years of showing up, bringing the cheer sections, and building people up.

Showing up for your kids and yourself is a reciprocal process. The shared experiences not only contribute to your children's growth but play a crucial role in shaping your own personal development. Parenthood is a dynamic journey of mutual influence, fostering growth for both parents and children along the way. So show up for them and show up for yourself.