Life is not linear--it loops around and repeats itself. And when the past presents again, it inspires us to learn more about what to do next.
Take Millennials, for example. Some leave home more than once. They go back and forth, taking small steps each time. Practice makes perfect. And these cumulative experiences prepare them for the ultimate transition into adulthood.
At some level, summer camp is a first step toward greater autonomy. Because our kids' leave-taking is only temporary, we welcome the break from our daily routine. But we know they'll come home wanting more freedom, a certain catalyst for growing up.
Find out what's happening in Venice-Mar Vistawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
College is a rite of passage and a big step in the developmental process. As parents, we understand our family will never be the same again. It's hard to let go, but eventually we all develop the necessary strengths that help us adjust to the changes.
When our emerging adults boomerang back, they tell us they have no choice. Of course, we welcome them, but deep down know there will be challenges. So we set ground rules that work for everyone and continue to support their move toward independence.
Find out what's happening in Venice-Mar Vistawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The road to adulthood is longer than it has ever been before.
New college graduates today have huge school loans and limited job prospects. According to a recent analysis by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce, Millennials comprise 40%of the country's unemployed population. And 3 in 10 of them are living at home. Even some with jobs have moved back because they’re holding out for the dream job or it makes their lives easier. And according to Pew Research, 8 out of 10 like it.
Not all adult children are lying on the couch, playing with their smart phones and waiting for mom to come home and make dinner. But they do see the world through a different lens. Whether getting a garage band off the ground or doing community volunteer work, they're choosing the lifestyle they want. While trusting their intuition and embracing uncertainty, they're learning to be more entrepreneurial. And although their choices may not be ours, they're gradually finding solutions and creating their own future.
