You have to finish what you started, kid
When quitting isn't an option
I’m trying something new. Monday through Friday I’ll be sharing a two-minute idea about fatherhood. I hope you find value in these quick posts.
“You don’t have to like it, but you have to finish it,” I told her whilst giving her soaking wet body a hug. I handed her off to her swim coach once more, hoping she got the message.
Every parent is faced with a similar dilemma: do I allow my child to stop doing something they don’t enjoy or do I tell them they need to finish what they started?
On one hand, they should be allowed to stop doing things they don’t like. A big part of childhood is getting to try a thousand different things and moving on from the things that don’t stick. On the other hand, if they made a commitment to something (or someone), they need to see it through. And, in this case, swimming is a non-negotiable. Every child needs to know how to swim competently. Quitting was never an option.
Quitting things is a sore spot for me. I’ve always felt that I’ve lacked stick-to-itiveness and it’s been the cause of much pain and disappointment in life. I don’t want her to pass that character flaw onto her.
Incidentally, watching her fight through discomfort and unenjoyment has helped me find ways to push through obstacles that would have previously caused me to quit. I don’t want her to ever think of her dad as someone who quits.
Children are a wonderful source of inspiration.
If you enjoyed this post, here are four ways you can support my writing (besides subscribing!):