The Joy of Childlikeness

3 Ways to Keep your Inner Child Spark

Our children teach us so much about life. They remind us of the simple lessons we have forgotten, that life’s little upsets are not the end of the world. They remind us of the love from our own mothers and fathers, and of the creativity and joy that we overlook during the business of city life.

Theyenjoy the simple things, and love a kind word. They are often honest, or at least transparent. And show us that the human spirit is both fragile and strong beyond our wildest imagination.

Here are three ways to follow your child’s example:

Children Assume the Best:  When meeting a person for the first time a child often assumes the best. They don’t expect to be let down or insulted. They walk in with a smile and engage with the other, awaiting whatever will come their way. Next time you meet a new person or pass a stranger, offer a smile, share a kind word, let them know they “have a pretty dress.” Who knows what good you can add to a person’s day, and at no cost to you. Employ the freedom of your child’s joy!

Children Believe They are Limitless: When you ask a child what they want to be we they grow up, or what they want to do, the answers vary from astronaut to dancer to King of Puppyland. Puppyland is not a real place, but your little one sees no need to limit his or her dreams! They believe they are LIMITLESS. What could you add and do in the world if you stopped limiting yourself?

Children Retain Curiosity: Lately there have been studies of how praising one’s effort is more effective than praising one’s intelligence. Children have a natural curiosity that allows them to explore without worrying about the outcome or potential for failure. And it is a beautiful thing. We can do the same. Next time you encounter a person or a statement that is different from your own, stay curious. Ask questions, listen, learn. Our little ones do not feel threatened by the risk of being found out or seen as wrong. Keep some of that. Stay curious.  You just may find yourself enthralled by a painting you’ve seen a thousand times or a sidewalk you pass daily.

I challenge you to apply the lessons your children remind you of this week. Walk gentler, be braver, assume the best, laugh at the little accidents, enjoy the sunsets, and don’t limit yourself. You will have more joy.