In many homes, you’ll hear parents proudly say, My child will be a doctor, an engineer, a lawyer and so on. To them, it’s not just a dream, it’s a promise of security, respect, and a better life. And truly, most parents mean well. They’ve seen life’s struggles up close, and they believe that pushing their children toward professional courses is the safest path.
But sometimes, in that strong desire to protect their children, parents forget to ask a simple question, What does this child actually want?
Some children come alive when they draw, when they sing, when they write stories, when they fix gadgets, or when they help others. Yet many of them grow up hearing, that’s not a real career, or you can do that later. Their passions become background noise, buried under expectations that don’t fit who they are.
And so you find talented kids forcing themselves through courses they never wanted in the first place, struggling, doubting themselves, or feeling guilty for disappointing their parents. Some finish the degree, but their hearts remain elsewhere. Others lose their confidence along the way, thinking something is wrong with them because they don’t enjoy the path chosen for them.
The truth is, every child is wired differently. One may shine in mathematics; another may thrive in storytelling. One may dream of medicine; another may dream of music. No dream is less valuable than the other.
When parents take the time to listen, to truly listen, they discover that supporting a child’s passion doesn’t mean abandoning stability. It simply means helping the child build a future that matches who they are. And nothing brings more joy to a child than knowing, my parents see me. They believe in me.
Dear Parents,
Listen to your child’s interests without judgment. Guide them, but also give them the freedom to explore their passions. Introduce them to different career options so they can choose with understanding, not pressure. Support and nurture their strengths and natural talents. Be patient as they discover themselves at their own pace. Show belief in their ability to succeed in the path that fits them best.
After all, the greatest gift a parent can give isn’t a profession, it’s the freedom to become themselves.
✍️ Amara Ann Unachukwu
