I have come to the radical conclusion that making one’s bed is THE KEY to success in life.
“Make your bed, and do a good job,” I instruct my kids each morning.
And you’d think I’d show some mercy to these bleary-eyed beings moving like sloths for a solid half hour upon rising.
Why is it necessary—especially during the summer—to enforce such structure and routine? After all, the kids are tired, moving at a snail’s pace, and, frankly, I have time to do it—and most definitely do a better job—after they leave for day camp.
Nonetheless, we all know that besides smarts, who-ya-know, and deep pockets, the true markers of long-term success in Iife come from intangibles, such as discipline, perseverance, creativity, resilience, and my all-time favourite, self-confidence.
Here’s why:
1. Kids learn discipline:
Sure, they don’t want to do it (heck, neither do I), but they learn to overcome that initial mental hurdle and do it anyway, in spite of themselves.
2. Kids start the day with a feeling of completion:
Most of our lives are spent chipping away at projects.Yet, we all aim for that overwhelmingly satisfying sensation that results from a finished job. Besides, a well-made bed not only looks good, but gives a finished look and feel to a bedroom—not to mention the cozy feeling of turning down nicely-tucked linens to crawl into at night.
3. Kids learn to tackle undesirable tasks:
To accomplish anything in life, we need determination. And more so if we don’t enjoy that which is set before us. Because anyway, we all have to do a great deal of “life maintenance,” such as folding laundry, scrubbing dirty dishes, paying bills, studying for a biology exam . . . you name it.
4. Kids learn to take pride in a job well done:
Starting the day feeling good about yourself boosts confidence and thus, sets the tone for the entire day. Sure, initially kids will do it quickly just to get the job over with, yet as time rolls on, they start to play with it—how tightly they can pull the sheets, how much they can smooth out the wrinkles, and how many ways they can display their 5,000 stuffed animals.
5. Kids learn the value of follow-through:
Having responsibilities to attend to day after day—whether it’s caring for a pet, raking leaves, or cleaning up after dinner—teaches kids that life flows better when they are accountable to established routines, rituals, and systems. Sure, from time to time it’s fun (and necessary!) to abandon such structure and organization for controlled chaos; however, for the most part, kids discover the intrinsic rewards found in sticking to something day in and day out. And that translates into increased self-reliance and proves a real self-esteem booster.
What do you think? Does my theory hold water or am I way off base?
Don't lose your marbles trying to get your kids to help out around the house. Use this system to get them to pitch in more often.
Want your children to help out around the house when they're older? Do this when they are young.
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