Have you seen that new show, "The Parent Test?" It's all about different parenting styles, from helicopter moms to snowplow dads to the formidable tiger parents. While watching it the other day I realized none of these styles resonated with me and it left me feeling a bit unsettled.
That’s when I decided to define my own approach to parenting. And so, after thoughtful consideration, I’m proud to embrace the title of (drumroll, please…) GPS Mom!
Picture me as a personal navigation system programmed by my kids, guiding them toward their desired destinations in life. Instead of seizing control of the wheel, my role is to provide guidance and unwavering support, empowering my children to take charge of their own journeys. My role as a GPS mom is to equip them with the directions and information they need to make informed decisions and set their own goals.
But being a GPS mom doesn't mean doing all the work for my kids. I'm not here to be a personal chauffeur or an overbearing backseat driver. Instead, I'm there to offer helpful directions and highlights potential detours or delays. Just like a GPS guides you on a road trip, I offer guidance, support, and resources to help my child thrive and find happiness in everything they do.
For instance, let's take my rising high school senior, who dreams of attending an elite university next year. As a proud GPS mom, the first thing I did when he shared this goal with me was roll up my sleeves and do some research. I discovered what it takes to get into that prestigious university. Armed with this knowledge, I became his personal navigation system. I outlined the steps he needs to take, such as acing his SATs, building an impressive extracurricular record, and writing killer essays.
From there, the rest was up to him. He understood that I couldn’t personally get him into those hallowed halls. The grades, essays, applications, interviews—those are tasks that rest solely on his shoulders. It will be his dedication, hard work, and resilience that will ultimately determine his success. He knows I will be there to offer advice and support along the way, but the journey is his.
And if he decides that elite school isn't his final destination after all, no problem! The beauty of being a GPS mom is that I can be reprogrammed at any time to guide him towards a new goal, whether it's a different college, trade school, or even a gap year exploring the world.
You see, being a GPS mom is all about striking the right balance between support and independence. I want my children to have the tools and knowledge they need to forge their own paths and make informed decisions. It's about nurturing their autonomy, while also ensuring they have the guidance and resources necessary to reach their goals.
As a GPS mom, my role extends far beyond academics and specific goals like college. I'm there for my children in all aspects of their lives—sports, hobbies, you name it. I assist them in setting goals, provide them with the knowledge they need, and help them navigate any obstacles that come their way. My ultimate goal? To see my child succeed, enjoy what they do, and find fulfillment in every step of their unique journey.
Now, I won't pretend that being a GPS mom is always a smooth ride. There will be bumps in the road, wrong turns, and moments of doubt. But that's where humor and flexibility come in handy! When things get tough, I'll be there with a cheerful voice, reminding my kids that detours are part of the adventure and setbacks are opportunities for growth. As I always say, don’t take life too seriously, you’ll never get out alive.
As my parenting journey unfolds, with my boys still in their teenage years, I must acknowledge that the final proof is yet to be seen. However, I am filled with immense pride to say that so far, these boys of mine have shown incredible promise and resilience, making me believe that the GPS parenting approach has indeed played a positive role in nurturing their growth.
And that, my friends, is the tale of the GPS mom.
In the end, being a GPS parent is all about empowering my children to chart their own course in life, while also offering them the guidance and resources they need to succeed. It's about being a navigator, rather than a driver, and helping them find their own way towards happiness and fulfillment. As parents, we may not always know the right answers, but as a GPS parent, I can help my children develop the skills and confidence they need to find their own way in the world.
So the next time you're feeling lost on your parenting journey, remember: sometimes all you need is a little direction. Are you a GPS Parent too?
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