5 Comments
User's avatar
Rachel Schmeltzer's avatar

Way to go Caleb! This reminds me of my oldest son. No punishment or reward ever worked. But when he is interested in something, there’s no stopping him. He thought for years he was dumb, then realized he just wasn’t interested in most things taught. He’s brilliant.

As a parent it was hard to understand. Especially since all 3 are my motivators! Thanks for sharing!

Expand full comment
Amanda Stern's avatar

Sounds like our sons were cut out of the same cloth! The one time in middle school my kid did his homework was when it was science fair time and he got to choose his project: designing a safer football helmet. It was the only time I've seen him do schoolwork by his own choice - and over a weekend no less!

Learning much sooner how my kids are motivated would have helped me be a much better parent much sooner!

Expand full comment
Rachel Schmeltzer's avatar

I feel the same way about how I could have been a better parent sooner! I’ve accepted the fact that being a mom means never ending guilt lol!

Expand full comment
Rebecca Holden's avatar

Great story - and well done Caleb!

I’m wondering what motivates me - I’m going to do some work on this....!

Expand full comment
Amanda Stern's avatar

It's definitely interesting to explore! I know for me, it's definitely not all cut and dried. Some areas of my life require different kinds of motivation, and sometimes different motivation on different days. And that's okay!

Awareness of where our motivation comes from is a really great first step to being able to move forward into doing the things we were meant to do! Thanks, Rebecca!

Expand full comment