How are you leaving a positive legacy for younger generations?

Even though I am only turning 25 in September it seems that life has changed dramatically for pre-teens and teenagers since I was in middle and high school. I can’t imagine how it must be with the multiple social media platforms, bullying, cell phones, and the peer pressure that goes with all of it. I am not sure if it is better to be a kid growing up or to be the parent that has to navigate all life’s experiences in such a different way today. Either way, I feel that even as a young adult, I can give back to the younger generations. As adults navigating our way through our own experiences, let’s not forget to inspire and encourage those who look up to us. Today I have compiled a list of ways that you can ensure you are inspiring and motivating positivity into the next generation.

1. Model positive behaviour. Young people are easily influenced and remember all that you say and do. If you feel insecure or lack confidence in certain areas they will see that and remember. Ensure that you are modelling the positive relationship you want young people to have with their own bodies. Work hard and they will see that and want to work hard as well to earn all that they desire.
2. Compliment on all of the things. Comments on appearance have their time and place but they shouldn’t be the only thing we praise. Personality, work ethic, intelligence, and compassion are just a small sample size of the other things we can celebrate in someone else. In today’s world of instant gratification and looking at the physical, it is important to remind young people that there are so many other things that define a good person.
3. Social media versus real life. Interact with young people in person, face to face. As we all adapt with the times and use more technology and social media, we forget about the importance of building real relationships. Remind young people to speak with confidence, listen intently, and to make eye contact to show interest. These small reminders can go a long way when it comes to interviews and career opportunities in the future. Work on hand shaking too! Every time I meet someone new I give them a firm handshake!
4. Encourage a positive relationship with food and movement. The diet culture is nothing new but as young people become influenced to attain a certain body type found on social media we must focus on developing positive habits. Ditch the diets and develop a relationship with yourself in which you can properly nourish yourself with real, whole foods. Movement should be fun and something you look forward to, not a punishment.
5. Develop compassion. Life is not all about me, or you, even though we sometimes can lose sight of that. Care for others, understand someone else’s view point or experience. Be a giver. You don’t always have to be on the receiving end of a good deed or act of kindness. What you give out to the world you will get back.

There are so many things that we as adults regardless of age can share with our younger family members, friends, athletes, whomever! They are at the perfect age to be easily influenced so let’s make it our mission to encourage positive behaviours towards themselves and to others around them. 

What do you do to ensure your children, grandchildren, and younger generations are influenced positively by your words and actions? 

Yours in self-discovery,

Rachel