4 minute read
Paradigm Shift
LIVING IN THE MOMENT DOESN’T MEAN FORGETTING ABOUT THE FUTURE, SAYS HANALEI SWAN. RATHER THAN ASKING ‘WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO WHEN YOU GROW UP?’, PARENTS SHOULD BE SAYING: WHAT DO YOU WANT TO DO NOW?’
By encouraging children to dream and explore in the present moment, parents empower them to embrace their unique talents and interests.
THE age-old question, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ carries a weighty expectation, often nudging individuals to project themselves into a distant future. However, this conventional query may inadvertently overshadow the importance of living in the present moment and nurturing current passions. The question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” can make us focus too much on the future and forget to enjoy what we love doing right now. Instead of feeling pressured to have everything planned out, we should focus on exploring our interests and enjoying the present moment. This way, we can find a balance between what makes us happy now and what we want to achieve in the future.
Hanalei Swan, a multifaceted individual with a background in fashion, art, international speaking, writing, and modeling, had a life-changing moment at the age of seven when her mother asked her a simple yet powerful question: “Hanalei, what do you want to be now?” This question had a significant impact on her and changed the way she thought about her future. It taught her the importance of not only dreaming about the future but also focusing on what she wants to do right now.
Thinking only about the future can make us miss out on enjoying the present moment. It’s important to plan for the future, but we shouldn’t forget to learn and grow from what’s happening right now. Also, always asking kids what they want to be when they grow up might make them feel like what they’re doing now isn’t important. We should appreciate what they’re interested in now without putting too much pressure on them about the future.
Hanalei emphasizes the need to reframe the question, urging parents to inquire about their children’s present desires rather than their future ambitions. By doing so, children are encouraged to explore their passions without the weight of expectation. This approach fosters a sense of confidence and self-awareness, enabling children to pursue their interests with enthusiasm and curiosity.
Furthermore, this shift in perspective grants individuals permission to make mistakes and take risks without fear of failure. It acknowledges that life is a journey filled with twists and turns, and success is not confined to a singular path. As Nelson Mandela once said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall”. This way of looking at things lets people know it’s okay to mess up and try new things without worrying about failing. It recognizes that life is full of surprises and different paths can lead to success.
By encouraging children to dream and explore in the present moment, parents empower them to embrace their unique talents and interests. Eleanor Roosevelt once remarked, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” This quote highlights the importance of nurturing aspirations and believing in one’s potential to shape their future. Whether it’s sports, music, or any other passion, parents can support their children by helping them explore these interests in the present moment. This proactive approach not only instills confidence but also cultivates a sense of purpose and direction from an early age. “I believe as kids, we are very open to so many possibilities and constantly want to try new things. So when my Mom asked me what I wanted to be in that moment, it was like an affirmation to feel like I could do something bigger right then and there rather than waiting for the future,” reflects Hanalei.
Living in the moment doesn’t mean forgetting about the future. It means enjoying life now while still aiming for your goals. Instead of always asking about the distant future, we should ask what someone wants to be doing right now. This helps people focus on their current dreams while still thinking about the future. This idea applies to everyone and reminds us to enjoy the present while still chasing our dreams. When we explore and learn about ourselves now, we set the stage for a fulfilling future, both for ourselves and those who come after us.
