Four Terrifying Things Every Parent Should Fear This Halloween

As Halloween approaches, it's time to consider some specific concerns that parents should be aware of. Here are four frightening behaviors every parent should think about and address:

1. 1. Distracting Yourself to Death

- Observation: Modern technologies are offering more time but are often spent on shallow endeavors. People are engrossed in distractions, affecting their ability to engage meaningfully with others.

- Cost: Constant busyness leads to a lack of genuine, purposeful activities.

- Solution: Turn off distractions, including phones, social media, news, and podcasts. Engage with people and delve deeper into the principles of your life.

2. 2. The Mummification of Happiness by Assuming More Is More

- Observation: The pursuit of happiness through accumulating things and accomplishments may lead to dissatisfaction.

- Cost: Spending too much time on unimportant matters and less on genuinely fulfilling activities.

- Solution: Embrace the concept of "Eudaimonia," focusing on human flourishing. Find happiness in accepting, appreciating, connecting to purpose, and serving others.

3. The Creation of Young Frankenstein’s Driven By Your Mad Need For Perfection and Control

- Observation: The desire for control and perfectionism in parenting can inadvertently create emotional struggles for children.

- Cost: Children may feel they are never good enough, leading to self-esteem issues.

- Solution: Avoid being a "mad scientist" seeking the perfect child. Understand that perfectionism in parenting can be emotionally abusive. Allow children agency, appreciate their strengths, and let them be their best selves.

4.  The Scary Ghosting of Relationships

- Observation: Younger generations see relationships as transient, leading to the practice of ghosting—abruptly ending communication without explanation.

- Cost: Lack of respect for others' feelings and the belief that relationships are disposable.

- Solution: Teach children to have difficult conversations, emphasizing the importance of communication. Encourage them to handle their own challenges and understand the impact of their actions on relationships.

In summary, by recognizing these behaviors and addressing them early on, parents can create a healthier and more meaningful environment for their children. Parenting is challenging, but acknowledging and navigating these concerns can contribute to positive family dynamics.