Three important lessons every father should learn to help avoid the inevitable.
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Most people who are at the later stage of life are not as concerned about pursuing their dream–even though some do–as those who are at an earlier stage of life.
I have been guilty out of ignorance, of making light of this process.
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What I’ve found is that most of what is said surrounding pursuing your dream tends to cater to a one-size fits all mentality. This does not take into consideration certain facets of living that is unique to those who are in the midlife stage of life.
One of the areas has to do with living with or letting go of a grown child. By this I mean, having them move out on their own.
I have heard much about this from other parents who have had to do that, but not much is said about the emotional and mental aspect of this transition. I have been guilty–out of ignorance–of making light of this process.
In the past, I have been guilty of quickly saying to parents who were wrestling with this transition–think of the benefits that come with this move.
Granted, there are benefits such as one less mouth to feed, possibly a reduction in utility bills and more flexibility as to how to make certain decisions. One less person to include in the decision-making process. There are also benefits for the adult child: independence, responsibility, decision making, etc.
Even though this is all true, when it comes time to pull the “trigger” on this, it becomes a different ball game. It is a bit harder than anticipated. This is more so if that grown child is not a problem within the home.
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In this episode, you will hear my own journey in this process as I too had to muscle my way through this very thing. I can say, even before you discover through listening, that it was not easy. I never thought I would have the reactions I did. You will hear what they were within this episode.
There are three discoveries that I made during this process:
1. Having faith. Being a person of faith helped me through this process. I prayed and relied on reading the Bible.
2. Being at peace. Knowing that I did all I could do. I had to be at peace that my son would be able to utilize all he’d learn to make a life for himself. Also, knowing that he was still within reach through phone and other media.
3. Having hope. This was reassuring for me knowing that I too had done the same thing and do consider myself successful. I’ve coached others to do this and seeing encouraging results. Seeing that I have walked a similar path and having helped others do the same, I had hope that my son would likewise have great results.
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I would love to hear from you as to your process when it comes to launching a product, child or your dream. What were your greatest struggles? Would you take a minute and leave me a comment below and share this with as many people as you can. I would highly appreciate your efforts.
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Photo: Flickr/ Malik_Braun