Peak Performance in Children
by Lonnie Horsey M.S

We all want our children to succeed. Whether it’s grade school, college, or a new job that’s in their immediate future; we have a responsibility to provide our children with the guidance necessary to help them reach their true potential.  The question is, what are these tools?  While not a complete list, I believe the items mentioned below are a great starting point in helping your children unlock the door to their success.

No matter what, it all begins with LISTENING.  Remember this is their life not yours, so in an attempt to provide your child with guidance; this is the part where you become a great listener.  By listening to your children, you show them that you care.  In order for them to grow and face the adversity of the elements that bombard them daily, they need to know that you are there for them. Catherine M. Wallace said, “Listen earnestly to anything [your children] want to tell you, no matter what. If you don't listen eagerly to the little stuff when they are little, they won't tell you the big stuff when they are big, because to them all of it has always been big stuff.”

Listening brings forth the desires of the heart and reveals the MISSION. Once we see what motivates them, then we can help them do what they believe they were called to do.  In his 1986 book, Peak Performers, Charles Garfield states, “Missions that Motivates are the call to action, the click, that starts things moving.” (p. 31). These are the internal decisions that cause them to begin their quests.  Now they might change over time, and that’s OK.  We are here to guide, not consume, to suggest, not force, to help, not smother; so it’s important that we don’t allow their mission to become our obsession.  

Next we help them set GOALS.  I prefer the S.M.A.R.T Goal method by (Doran, Miller & Cunningham).  Simply stated you help your children design goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely. This should not be a long drawn out process.  Discuss with them what they want to achieve and then let them write down how they are going to reach their goals. Sprinkle in some inspiration, motivation and love and you’re off to a great start. I’ll provide more detail and tips in the months to come.  Enjoy the journey.

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