As my daughter wrapped up her final semester of high school, after completing all her sports and volunteer commitments, I took a moment to have an important conversation with her. With a gentle yet firm look, I said, “It’s time to go get a job.”
At first, she seemed surprised. After all, juggling her busy schedule throughout high school left little room for anything else. Weekends were filled with homework, rest, and family time, while her summers were dedicated to volunteering. Though she insisted she treated her volunteer work as a real job, I knew it wasn’t the same as the gritty lessons that come from a traditional job. I wanted her to get a run-of-the-mill minimum wage position—maybe even one that involved cleaning restrooms.
Recent discussions among college admissions officers highlight a growing concern: many applicants lack genuine work experience. While some may have cushy internships, far fewer have experienced the realities of working in the service industry. Yet, it’s precisely these types of jobs that can impart vital life lessons. Here are seven important takeaways from my daughter’s experience working part-time:
- Expect to Encounter Rudeness
Life can be harsh, and customers don’t always treat employees kindly. One key lesson is to maintain a smile, even when faced with difficult people. It’s a reminder to stay resilient and kind amidst adversity. - Understanding the Value of Money
When your teen starts earning, they’ll quickly connect prices to the hours they need to work. My daughter, once her bank account grew, began to think twice before making unnecessary purchases. - Minimum Wage Isn’t Sustainable
Seeing her co-workers struggle to make ends meet on minimum wage was eye-opening for her. It fueled her appreciation for her upcoming college opportunities and the prospect of a better future. - Commitment is Key
Your boss won’t care about personal issues that crop up. Showing up ready to work is essential; otherwise, your position can be filled in a heartbeat. This lesson about accountability is crucial for any future job. - Detaching from Technology
Working an entire shift without checking a phone can be refreshing. It promotes face-to-face interaction and real conversations—skills that are often overlooked in today’s digital age. - Work is Not for Show
Employers care about performance, not appearances. Whether flipping burgers or running a business, the same work ethic is required. Taking pride in any job is essential for personal and professional growth. - Developing Empathy
Working with diverse individuals, especially in challenging situations, fosters gratitude. Experiencing the struggles of others can shift perspectives and enhance appreciation for one’s own life.
My daughter did find a job in the fast food industry before heading off to college, and she continued working during her break. I knew the experience had been transformative when she came home one evening, exhausted but enlightened, and said, “In just three days, I learned everything you and Dad have been trying to teach me for years. Thanks for pushing me to work, Mom. I get it now.”
For more insights on parenting and personal growth, check out our other blog post on Cervical Insemination. If you’re exploring at-home insemination options, Make a Mom offers excellent kits. Additionally, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine is an excellent resource for those interested in pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, encouraging your teen to take on a part-time job can provide valuable life lessons that extend far beyond the workplace. These experiences foster growth, responsibility, and an understanding of the world they will soon enter as adults.
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