Some of us love them, some of us fear them, but we all have an opinion about kids. Most of us agree that they have a lot to learn, and that they need adults to teach them.
But they have a lot to teach us as well.
Even with the little amount of life experience they have, they are born knowing a lot, both about life and how to treat people.
If we listen closely, these are the things they’re telling us:
Be curious. Kids have this habit of always asking why things are the way they are. They are born with so much curiosity about the world. We should challenge ourselves to maintain this state throughout adulthood.
Give people the benefit of the doubt. Children always assume people are good, which explains why they have to be taught to be wary of strangers. Although we know better than to trust everyone, this should teach us to give people a chance to show us who they are before we choose not to.
Dream big, and sometimes be unrealistic. When you ask a child what s/he wants to be when they grow up, the answer is always sky-high; a professional athlete, or a movie star, or a doctor. We all know everyone can’t be those things, but maybe kids have it right: dream big, because some people will become those things. Why not you?
Dress like whatever you want to be. Playing dress up was a great way to express yourself, as it allowed you to “dress the part” of who you want to be. The same translates into your real, adult life. If you want to be successful, dress for success.
When someone is sad, comfort them. A hug, a smile, or a kind word can go a long way. They won’t always fix the problem, but human contact often lightens the load of a situation.
If someone needs help, help them. Enthusiastically offer to carry someone’s bags, help them make dinner, or help them do an art project. It’s amazing the impact that the little things can have.
Sometimes, it’s necessary to rebel against something you don’t agree with. If something bothers you, let people know. Make an effort to change it. Throw a tantrum. You can’t rely on everyone else to make change happen, you have to bring on the change yourself.
It doesn’t matter if a joke is terrible, people will either laugh at you or with you. The important thing is, they’re laughing. Even a bad joke will instantly lighten the mood in the room, and show off your personality in the process.
Get to know people for who they are on the inside. Kids are hugely accepting, because they haven’t yet been taught to be intolerant. They don’t care what someone looks like. They choose friends based on their personality.
The world is a big, beautiful playground. Everywhere you look there is an invitation for a new adventure. Swimming, climbing, jumping, and so many other opportunities. Never lose your ability to play and be silly, and never forget to stop and look around you.
