One of the major factors that contributes to your child becoming mentally strong is
learning a “growth mind set.” That means, the more you can give your child ways to
practice flexible thinking and adaptability, the faster your child will build skills in social-
emotional intelligence which leads to a sense of competence.

It all starts in the home environment, you be the energy that generates a supportive,
positive, enthusiasm for learning and life. You introduce your child to the ways they can
become competent, flexible, industrious and adventuresome. Talk about the ability to
see things from a new perspective and different viewpoints; It can be as simple as
playing a game and seeing several steps ahead of time.

A growth mindset is both preparedness to the expected and openness to the
unexpected. Show your child how to problem-solve using two different moves, like in a
game. Demonstrate how to see different vantage points. Here’s how.

BRANCHING OUT— YOU CHOOSE —GO RIGHT OR GO LEFT?

Imagine a tree with two large branches growing outward from its trunk. You might want
to illustrate using a tree outdoors, a photo or make a drawing while sitting at the kitchen
table. Now, let’s say, the branch to the left we’ll call “A” and the branch to the right we’ll
call “B.” You have the ability to choose. For example, say you are planning to ask a
friend to join you to do something, if he says “yes” that’s “A” and you know what you’ll
do. But if he says “no” that’s “B” then you have to plan out what to do instead.
In this way, you still feel OK and in charge of your energy and emotions thereby
keeping your inner balance. When you have a growth mindset, you are prepared,
ahead of time, with both “A” and “B” decision. This way you feel more control. You don’t
have to let the outside world upset you. You have enough awareness to know both are
OK. And you develop inner strength.

If you like this article and want more about developing flexibility read “Anything Can
Happen Thursday” on Dr. Roxie’s blog and FREE guided relaxation audio
https://drroxannedaleo.com/roxie/resting-is-caring-guided-meditation/