Would you like to help your child reach their potential, earn their teammates’ and coaches’ respect and play a big part in their team’s success?
Probably every sports parent would answer YES. However, many of them may struggle with helping their kids understand that success and reaching potential is gained through a process, not an overnight solution.
The challenge comes in helping a young athlete see the importance and stay committed to the process.
As parents work through this with their children, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Talk about what “process” means. In this instant society, kids want to see results right away and have no patience for “the process.” In discussing this, you can help them understand what is meant by “process,” and why it is important in youth sports. This is also a good time to help them figure out the “why” behind their “what” of playing sports
Help them set goals as part of that process. Processes are easier to grab onto when you can measure the progress. Encourage them to set measurable goals and come up with a way to track those goals – whether it’s weekly, monthly or seasonally.
Talk with your child about the meaning of commitment. Challenge them to make a total commitment to their team and to their training. Emphasize that commitment means perseverance, resiliency, teachability, focus and preparation.
Find examples of success. You won’t have to look far to find examples of successful athletes who modeled the process – both famous and local in your community. Listening to their stories can help inspire athletes to commit to the process.
Look for other processes. Be aware of other things in life that exemplify the importance of following the process: building a house, building muscles, losing weight and learning a new skill. Processes are all around us and the more your athlete sees their importance the more patience they will have with them.
Ultimately, trusting the process takes maturity, so be patient with your child’s impatience. Model the process in your own life and continuously encourage them in theirs.
Hold the vision. Drop the excuses. Remember your why. Swerve around obstacles. Trust the process. - anonymous.
Janis Meredith is a family life coach who wants to help all parents raise champions. You can find out more at rcfamilies.com.
USA Football's new model for youth football is designed to make the game safer by reducing contact and by teaching the game based on an athlete's age, the skill they are learning and game type.