First, work to build your children’s self-esteem. From the day they are born, affirm them a great deal. Believe in them and give them lots of positive feed back. Always express confidence in them and their potential. Try not to compare with other children or with other people. The way people feel about themselves inside is the real key to using their talent and releasing their potential. How they feel about themselves is largely a function of how they are seen and treated by others, particularly their parents.
Second, encourage primary greatness. Teach them that there are two kinds of greatness: primary greatness – which is the principle-centered character – and secondary greatness – which is the greatness that the world acknowledges. That’s been a constant theme. Try to inspire them to go for primary greatness first and not to compensate for character weakness by substituting or borrowing strength from a secondary source (popularity, reputation, possessions, natural talents, and so on).
Third, encourage them to develop their own interests. When you detect real talent in your children, you encourage them to develop it.
