Work Ethic Window

We personally know a college kid in our neighborhood who has not lifted a finger at all this summer to help his family in the care of the house/yard.  He plays on the computer all day, he finally got his first summer job  (he's 21), and still does not have his driver's licence.  He has all his needs met and lots more.  He is a product of a society that encourages young adults to "live it up" and enjoy life as much as possible.

His parents love him with all their hearts, and they were doing what they thought was best for him.  They gave him everything he ever needed, and they did everything for him.  That is how a lot of people show love to their kids- but is it truly loving?  And, the father mentions frequently, if I could only do it again....I would've  done things differently.

A lifestyle like the one aforementioned, has actually been very detrimental and harmful to him.  He was scared to call people for jobs and he struggled in interviews because he didn't have the confidence to speak for himself.  He had no hard work ethic to draw upon.  He was even scared to be alone for a few days this summer when his family went away on vacation once he got his job.  

This was a huge summer of growth for him. He got his permit, he finally landed a job, he managed to not starve when his family was gone, and he had to learn what it meant to work.  He truly made huge strides.  But, how painful for him at the age of 21 to have to learn all this the hard way!  

Wouldn't it have been easier had he learned to work at a young age?  Wouldn't it have been easier for him in the long run, to work for what he wanted, gain confidence in his abilities, and win respect of adults who could then act as references for him when trying to secure a job?

I am starting to believe that there is a Work Ethic Window time in every kid's life where, if you take advantage of teaching them to work hard and diligently, they won't have to tough it out, the hard way, later in life when the process is so much more painful.  Is it easy?  No, teaching our son to mow a lawn with just a couple breaks has taken us all summer.  There have been complaints and there has been whining.  But, he now has pride in his accomplishments, some money to learn to manage, and he has gained the respect of adults who can then act as references for him.

Look for the window when your child wants to be trusted with responsibility, earn money, and has the desire to prove themselves.  Hitting the window at the right time and lots of prayer, may be the key to a young person's good work ethic.