First off, I appreciate my kids sharing what the notion of sharenting is! I learnt a new word, and understood a new concept. I like to think of myself as a lifelong learner and am grateful that I was taught something new.
Of course, I know parenting first hand. Yes, i have read books and also received much advice. But my best parenting lessons have come from observing other wonderful mom and dads, including my very own... and naturally from my own experiences.
What I learnt is that parenting is not just about the present. In fact, its power lies in its second order effect. I should explain: when parents protect their kids, the young ones may grow up lacking courage. When parents indulge the young ones, they grow up entitled. When they over-celebrate every moment, the children grow up needing affirmation. When they are pushed too hard, they may lack confidence.
There is even a third order effect because we all know what the real world is like: it needs courage, it requires personal effort, it doesn't always reward the way one expects and we all know the value of having confidence... and the lack of these qualities lead to other consequences.
Unfortunately, in the moment, many parents dont appreciate the longer term effects. On my part, I think I am aware of it. I even try to put it into practice.
Its a bit of an occupational hazard with me, being a strategy advisor. I tend to see things in the future. But as a parent, I can only stand aside, having raised the children all these years and hope that enough wisdom have been transferred as they confront their own challenges in their own lives.
With my offsprings all grown up now, I have little (or no more) say in their lives anymore. Now it remains for me to be happy and proud of my kids. In fact, I guess it is sharenting.
As a parent, its one of the few things we can still do and I hope to do it wisely, celebrating my own pride and joy
