We enter this world without a care, completely unencumbered by the expectations of society. Before we learn social norms and emotional responses, we simply act on instinct, fulfilling our needs as they arise. Unfortunately, as we grow older, we often suppress our true selves to fit in with those around us. However, I find that my little ones—ages 3 and 4—navigate life with a refreshing confidence that inspires me to follow suit. Here are five lessons we can learn from their carefree approach.
1. Fashion Freedom
My daughter is a total trendsetter in her own right, effortlessly combining floral prints with stripes and polka dots with plaid. She wears what makes her happy, regardless of whether it matches. My son, on the other hand, enjoys wearing his shorts backward and occasionally puts his shoes on the wrong feet—just because he prefers it that way. While I might not adopt their exact styles, I’m definitely going to stop worrying about others’ opinions on my outfits. If my favorite jeans showcase a muffin top or my shirt reveals a little bit of my “mommy belly,” who really cares? It’s all about embracing my own sense of style, just like my kids do.
2. Authentic Expression
My kids often turn our home into a mini Broadway stage, singing their wishes and performing interpretive dances to convey their feelings. They’ll sing about wanting mac and cheese for dinner or dance their way to bedtime. Why shouldn’t adults have that same freedom? If your favorite song comes on while you’re grocery shopping, don’t hesitate to dance! If you feel like singing off-key in the car at a stoplight, go ahead and belt it out. Kids remind us that sometimes, it feels great to simply let loose.
3. Trusting Their Gut
Children are remarkably perceptive. If they seem uneasy around someone in our home, there’s likely a good reason for it. As adults, we often suppress our instincts and “give everyone a chance,” but kids trust their feelings. If a certain person makes you uncomfortable—even if they haven’t done anything wrong—it’s perfectly okay to step back. Let’s take a page from their book and honor our own instincts in social situations.
4. Being Unapologetically Themselves
One of the most liberating aspects of childhood is their utter disregard for others’ opinions. Kids don’t worry about whether their conversations about bodily functions are appreciated, nor do they fret over the judgment of their outfits or table manners. If someone doesn’t like them, they simply move on, embodying a self-assuredness that we often lose as adults. Children know their worth, and so should we.
5. Speaking Their Truth
I was chatting with a friend recently when her son burst into the room to announce that my son hit him. When I asked why, my son candidly replied, “I don’t like him!” While I don’t condone hitting, I appreciate his honesty. Sometimes, we just don’t connect with certain people or situations, and it’s okay to express those feelings. Being truthful about our likes and dislikes is essential for personal growth and understanding.
Ultimately, kids are simply honest—there’s nothing wrong with being true to yourself and disregarding negativity. I aim to nurture this fearless attitude in my children while also embracing it within myself. For more insights on similar topics, check out this other blog post, and if you’re considering home insemination, reputable retailers like Make a Mom offer great at-home insemination kits. Additionally, you can explore valuable resources on pregnancy and home insemination at CCRM IVF.
Summary
Kids naturally embrace life by being themselves, expressing their feelings, and trusting their instincts. As adults, we can learn to let go of societal pressures and reclaim our authentic selves, fostering a more carefree approach to life.
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